For centuries, ships transported goods between continental trading ports and Stirling but there is little evidence of this today.
A James Proudfoot drawing ( 1972 ) on a nearby plaque suggests how the harbour would look circa 1600 with two sailing ships docked against a background of the top of the town and Stirling Castle. During the 19th and 20th Century pleasure steamers and various vessels sailed up the River Forth to Stirling.
Stirling Harbour was once one of Scotland's principal ports being listed in 1525 along with Aberdeen, St Andrews, Edinburgh, Perth and Dundee. The port's importance declined due to the shallow rocky outcrops in the river Forth preventing larger vessels passing through. Small freight ships continued to use the harbour until the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939. Shore Road.
Here you can sit, enjoy the views and contemplate the history of sailing and its contribution to the growth and importance of Stirling.
The merchants of Stirling adopted a backward four symbol to signify that the quality of goods was of an acceptable standard.
It can be seen in the centre of this insignia.
The symbol is still used by Stirling Guildry. It can also be seen on many of the old gravestones, especially around the castle.
In 2019 a floating pontoon was built for recreation purposes.
This has been designed to rise and fall as the river is still tidal at this point.
It is hoped that kayaks and pleasure boats will use this to enjoy the scenery up and down river.
If you are lucky you might hear a piper practising on the green.
