The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Mercat Cross
4.4
(680)
6,281
hikers
25
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Mercat Cross are primarily found in historical urban and semi-urban settings, often incorporating local landmarks and green spaces. The terrain typically features gentle gradients suitable for families, with paths winding through areas of historical significance. While Mercat Crosses themselves are urban monuments, the surrounding areas offer accessible routes that combine cultural exploration with outdoor activity.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Mercat Cross
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Stirling Castle & Gowanhill…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.5
(12)
49
hikers
4.24km
01:13
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(27)
101
hikers
9.36km
02:32
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(3)
101
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
21
hikers
2.76km
00:47
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Mercat Cross
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Tips from the Community
Highly recommend the Escape Rooms based out of the Old Town Jail in Stirling!
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Erected by the men of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders to commemorate the fallen in the Boer War, this eight-foot bronze infantryman, has been in place since 1905. The kilted figure, which weighs three quarters of a tonne and was sculpted by W Hubert Paton, stands on a six-foot high granite plinth.
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Great path to link Kings Knot with Stirling Castle, The Beheading Stone, the Old Cemetery and Stirling Old Town. A very enjoyable walk with lots of historical interest.
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This sculpture is part of the Wallace Way wood carving trail at Abbey Craig, which is FREE to access and starts from the Wallace Monument Carpark. The 15-20 minute route ascends the Abbey Craig from the car park to the entrance of The National Wallace Monument. The trail takes visitors on a journey through Stirling’s history, from ice age to the building of the Wallace Monument.
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This Whale sculpture celebrates the whale bones that were washed up on the prehistoric shoreline at the Carse of Stirling, 5000 BC. The sculpture is part of the Wallace Way wood carving trail at Abbey Craig, which is FREE to access and starts from the Wallace Monument Carpark. The trail takes visitors on a journey through Stirling’s history, from ice age to the building of the Wallace Monument.
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These animal sculptures celebrates Scotland’s first farmers who kept pigs, sheep, goats and cattle. The sculptures are part of the Wallace Way wood carving trail at Abbey Craig, which is FREE to access and starts from the Wallace Monument Carpark. The trail takes visitors on a journey through Stirling’s history, from ice age to the building of the Wallace Monument.
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Access to the Abbey Craig is FREE and open to the public all year. Many of the trails lead to stunning viewpoints of the surrounding landscape, city of Stirling and river Forth with spectacular views to Stirling Castle. The woodcarving trail is an interactive journey through time, appealing to children of all ages.
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Beautiful views to Stirling Castle with benches to enjoy the views and information boards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Mercat Cross?
There are over 25 family-friendly hiking trails around Mercat Cross, with 15 of them specifically rated as easy, making them ideal for families with children.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes near Mercat Cross?
The family-friendly hikes around Mercat Cross often feature gentle paths and manageable distances, suitable for various ages. Many routes explore historical areas and urban green spaces rather than rugged natural landscapes, as Mercat Crosses are typically urban monuments.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Mercat Cross are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the easy-rated Stirling Castle & Gowanhill loop from Stirling is a great option for a family outing.
What are some interesting landmarks or points of interest we can see on these family walks?
While Mercat Crosses themselves are historical urban monuments, the surrounding areas offer various points of interest. You might encounter historical sites like Stirling Castle or the Old Stirling Bridge. For natural features, consider exploring highlights such as the Waterfalls of Alva Glen or the Weir on the River Devon, Tullibody, which are nearby.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in this area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.45 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the historical context of the walks, and the suitability for families looking for an enjoyable outdoor experience without extreme difficulty.
Are there any shorter, easy walks suitable for toddlers or very young children?
Absolutely. For a shorter, easy walk, consider the Stirling Castle – Stirling Old Town Jail loop from Stirling, which is just under 3 km and offers a gentle introduction to the area's history.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family around Mercat Cross?
Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery for family hikes. Summer can also be lovely, but it's always wise to check local weather forecasts. Winter walks are possible, but paths might be wet or icy, so appropriate footwear is essential.
Are there any routes that feature animal sculptures or unique art installations?
Yes, the Animal Carvings Bench – Scottish Animal Sculptures loop from Stirling is a moderate route that specifically highlights Scottish animal sculptures, offering an engaging experience for children and adults alike.
Can we combine a family hike with a visit to a historical site?
Many routes are designed to incorporate historical sites. For instance, the Old Stirling Bridge – Old Stirling Bridge loop from Stirling allows you to explore this significant landmark as part of your family walk.
What should we wear for family hikes in this region?
Given the varied weather in Scotland, it's best to dress in layers. Comfortable walking shoes or boots are recommended, and a waterproof jacket is always a good idea, regardless of the season. Don't forget sun protection and plenty of water.
Are there any viewpoints along the family-friendly trails?
While the immediate vicinity of Mercat Cross is urban, some nearby trails offer elevated perspectives. For panoramic views, you might consider visiting the Dumyat Summit and Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Memorial or the Colsnaur Hill Summit Cairn, which are accessible from other guides focusing on natural monuments.
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