The Scottish Victorian spa town that was named 'best place to live'

As April comes to an end and we enter May, the Daily Record has returned with an extra-beautiful Town of the Week . Each week, we select one town or village across Scotland and spotlight what makes it so unique. This week, we are journeying to the Stirling council area.

Our latest Town of the Week is Bridge of Allan. A former Victorian spa town at the foot of the Ochil Hills, Bridge of Allan was built over the Allan Water. Situated just out of Stirling, it was recently named the "best place to live" in Scotland by property experts—praised for its "compelling location and good quality of life".



Bridge of Allan earned its reputation as a spa town in the 19th century, when more and more tourists started visiting the Trossachs. Among the famous faces that visited the resort at one time or another were Robert Louis Stevenson and Charles Dickens. The town's heritage lives on through a variety of Victorian villas and public buildings.

Even to this day, Bridge of Allan is worth a visit. Walking around, you will find amenities such as a various shops and hotels. There is also a golf club, while the legendary National Wallace Monument is only a short walk away.

In terms of food, you have plenty of options in Bridge of Allan. Among the stars of the show, however, are The Allanwater Café fish and chip shop and the Westerton Arms. Read on for a selection of images of Bridge of Allan.

Meanwhile, some of our previous Towns and Villages of the Week can be found below: The hidden gem Scottish Highlands village with pub that serves 'best ever' fish and chips Scotland's 'best wee village' with inn that serves up 'sumptuous' Easter Sunday roast The Scottish seaside resort town once named 'worst' that is perfect for day out The underrated Scottish seaside village with sandy beach and 'wonderful' seafood The Scottish Highlands village with 'perfect' fish and chip shop and Outlander abbey The peaceful Scottish town with 'best tea room' perfect for Mother's Day outing Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - sign up to the Scotland Now newsletter here . When first arriving in Bridge of Allan, it is a good idea to fuel up for your day out—and The Allanwater Café is a great place to do just that. This family-run fish and chip shop serves up fish suppers of various sizes, as well as smoked sausage, black pudding, burgers, and even ice cream.

The most iconic landmark in the area is undoubtedly the National Wallace Monument, which is less than an hour on foot from the centre of Bridge of Allan. The 67-metre tower, which sits on the scenic Abbey Craig and commemorates Sir William Wallace, is open to the public. Bridge of Allan features various picturesque parks, including the beautiful Pullar Memorial Park (pictured).

A lush green escape, the park was donated to the local community by Major Edmund Pullar in 1919 after World War One. Meanwhile, if you are a golf lover, then you will love the Bridge of Allan Golf Club. Its nine-hole course features fabulous views of Stirling Town and the Trossachs.

According to the club's website , it was even previously a finalist for "Scotland’s best nine-hole course". Finally, you can end your day in Bridge of Allan with some food or drink at the Westerton Arms. This local-favourite pub serves up freshly made sandwiches, Sunday roasts, and a varied à la carte menu.

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