Stories in the Stones

Walk Description

Callander, a place where Lowland meets Highland, is one of the very first planned towns in Scotland. This walk begins in Ancaster Square, and it guides you on a circular walk around the core of this fascinating burgh.

Buildings and other stone structures give the framework for the tour. Through them, you’ll find out about some of the people who have shaped Callander. You’ll start to read the stories behind the stones.

Certain people will feature several times. They include Sir Walter Scott (whose name may be familiar) and the Reverend James Robertson (whom you’ll know by the end of the walk). Architects, artists, shopkeepers, cattle drovers, a saint and railway workers are among the others whose stories have links to the stones.

Our map shows the location of 17 numbered pavement markers, each with a bearded face, which indicate locations where you might want to stop and look around. A red spot on the map will show you where you are, and you can tap on the nearby map markers to pull up information and relevant photos at these points.

You’ll need to pause along the way and look carefully at buildings to see where the photos were taken.

The bearded image on the markers is based on one of several such decorative sculptures in Main Street, Bridgend and North Church Street. See how many you can spot around town, both on the walk and slightly beyond it.

In some places on the trail, there are panels that will give you additional information and pictures. So by using a combination of the map markers and panels, you’ll have several ways of learning more about the town. Take your time, look up at top storeys of buildings when you can (though keep alert for traffic) and start to see Callander in a different way.

Relish the journey,
Enjoy the Stories in the Stones...

Walk Stats

The trail is largely along pavements and firm surfaced paths.

Walking slowly, with stops to view buildings, may take half an hour to one hour.

Stories in the Stones is a Callander & District Heritage Society project, supported by Stirling Council, Historic Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and Interesting Digital.