King's Knot

At the back of the castle, is the largest green space in the city of Stirling, just a few minutes walk from downtown. The King's Knot is a park designed for King Charles I in 1627 by Scottish architect James Watt, where, in earlier times, there had been recreational areas for monarchs and Scottish noble families. Basically, it is a walled rectangular enclosure, flanked by trees on an octagonal mound (supposedly this is the knot) where the king stood during the celebration. At present, it is looked after by Historic Scotland, although entrance is free. On hot sunny days, the locals usually go there to eat with family.