The coronation of a female tennis player

Stirling Castle dominates the plains around the River Forth, guarding the furthest downstream crossing of this river. A fortress since earliest times, most of the battlements and buildings that can be explored today were built between 1490 and 1600.
It was during this building period that Mary Queen of Scots was crowned in the Royal Chapel on September 9, 1543, as was her father James V in 1513, marking the beginning of her close association with the castle.
Mary spent her first four years within the safety of the castle walls and visited the fortifications many times as an adult. In fact, her son, the future James VI, was baptized in the castle in December 1566.

Grab a picnic at this award-winning deli and treat yourself to one of their baguettes or paninis, or perhaps something from their exquisite selection of cheeses or antipasti. Then treat yourself to a delicious cake. Pack your supplies, ready for your next stop.

The ruins of Campbell Castle lie in a narrow picturesque valley in the Ochil Hills and are one of the best preserved tower house castles in the country.
Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots, visited Campbell Castle as a guest of honor at the wedding of James Stuart, Lord Doune. Mary's half-sister, Lady Jane Stewart, who was married to the fifth Earl of Argyll, lived at the castle.
The original name of the castle was Castle Gloom, a name that proved true when Mary suffered from bouts of fever, vomiting and stomach pains immediately after the wedding.
Park in the parking lot halfway up the valley, below the castle. Take your picnic with you and follow the path through the trees and up the valley, choosing one of the picturesque benches along the way to enjoy your lunch.
Please note that the castle operates seasonally; check opening times before you travel.

You now take a ferry to the ruins of the castle, which is also associated with Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots.
Please note that the ferry operates seasonally; check the opening times before you travel.

A ferry will take you to the enchanting remains of a 14th century tower and castle, deeply rooted in the historical connection with Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots.
Take a short walk along the shores of Loch Leven and gaze at Lochleven Castle, isolated on a small island.
It was from this castle that Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots, fled in 1568 after a year of imprisonment. It was a tragic time for Mary after she lost twins and was forced to abdicate in favor of her son.

After leaving the ferry, get back into the car and drive to the last castle of the day.

Originally a castle, Falkland was transformed into a Renaissance palace by the father and grandfather of Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots. When Mary returned from France in 1561, she developed an instant liking for Falkland, which reminded her of the grand palaces she had enjoyed in France.
The palace has one of the oldest original real tennis courts in the world, where the sporty Maria played enthusiastically. Her love of outdoor activities brought her regularly to Falkland, where she practiced tennis, falconry and hunting.
Please note that the palace operates seasonally; check opening times before you travel.

Head over to 1567 Restaurant in the Green Hotel for some really good food. They have a great selection of dishes to choose from, like slow-braised feather blade of beef and perfectly pan-fried sea trout. And for dessert? Their chocolate fondant or a selection of fantastic ice creams and sorbets are not to be missed.

After a great meal, why not take a drive to the tranquil meadows of Lochore and stretch your legs? A loop around the beautiful Loch Ore takes about an hour and provides a great opportunity to reflect on your adventures with Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots.