A MEDIEVAL street that has been hidden under a Scottish shopping centre for more than 40 years is to be opened up for guided tours in June.
Dirt Raw ran along Stirling’s formidable city walls, which are some of the best preserved in Scotland.
When Thistles shopping centre was being built in the 1970s, it was built over the Dirt Raw, sealing it away from the public.
Now however, as part of the city’s 900th anniversary celebrations, visitors will have the opportunity to secure a guided tour.
The tours will also feature access to the hidden section of the Thieves’ Pot – the 16th century jail located in Thistles – and will be led by Stirling Council archaeologist Dr Murray Cook.
He said: “Dirt Raw used to lie outside the Royal Burgh and was sealed in the 1970s as Thistles was built.
“It’s an incredibly atmospheric disorienting place and I can’t wait to explore it and the outside of the Thieves’ Pot.”
Tickets will cost around £20 per person with all proceeds going to Start Up Stirling’s services as the charity celebrates its 30th anniversary.
Stirling’s council leader Chris Kane commented: “These guided tours will provide a rare opportunity to see part of Stirling’s remarkable history that’s been hidden away for more than 40 years.
“As we mark Stirling’s 900th anniversary, this is a fitting moment to open up this medieval street to the public whilst supporting a fantastic local charity in Start Up Stirling as it celebrates its special milestone.
“I’m sure there will be huge demand so please book early.”
There are only 20 tickets available on each tour, on Wednesday June 12 and June 19, and these can be booked HERE.
Centre director at Thistles Gary Turnbull said: “Stirling is a city with such a rich heritage and it just so happens that Thistles was built atop the Thieves’ Pot.
“The museum in the centre always catches the eye of tourists and shoppers alike and we’re excited to be taking part in opening the Dirt Raw to uncover the city’s history whilst helping to raise vital funds for Start Up Stirling.”
