Stirling’s Gateway To The Stars
IMAGINE a school that could boast its own observatory! The former Stirling High School could do just that.
The tower was part of an 1888 extension, a gift from local MP Henry Campbell-bannerman. Its telescope was donated by local businessman, Laurence Pullar. Now the Stirling Highland Hotel, it lies near the top of Spittal Street.
The telescope, now owned by Stirling Council, is preserved and maintained by the Stirling Astronomical Society.
“We have over 1000 visitors a year from all over the world,” says the society’s Alan Cayless. “Some are guests of the hotel, others are interested local groups. We do a lot of educational outreach.
“In addition to Doors Open Days, we hold evening classes in the hotel in winter on the first Thursday of each month.”
The telescope is fully functional when weather permits, and is a prime example of Victorian ingenuity and engineering.
“We do a number of projects with local schools,” adds Alan. “Our regular monthly lectures at the Smith Institute in Dumbarton Road are open to the public.” www.stirlingastronomicalsociety.org.uk