Cowane’s Hospital
The Hospital was built between 1636 and 1649 (although actually dated 1638-39) in pursuance of a mortification by John Cowane, Dean of Guild of Stirling, for the support of twelve “decayed Gildbreithers” of the burgh. It is a charming crowstepped building, looking north towards the Kirk of the Holy Rude, beside a pleasant balustraded terrace and a bowling-green laid down as long ago as 1712.
The main frontage has two wings forming an open court. In the centre is a bell-tower with an ogival leaded roof, a niche over the main entry containing a statue of the Founder. The inscribed tablets on the exterior are delightfully evocative of the homely piety of the age when the Hospital was erected. The interior has been much altered, especially in 1857, when the present Guild-Hall was formed.
- Part of Cowane’s Hospital is open to the public. Admission free.