Stirling’s stunning scenery, historical architecture and rich folklore combine to create an innately mythical city. A legendary wolf roams Port Street and, on Friars Street, fairies flit and fly, delighting countless children and adults alike. The fairies were brought there by Lisa Davidson – originally from the equally mythical isle of Islay – who opened her small, independent shop Tinkerbells Emporium in 2015, after six years of planning.
But, even after nearly a decade, she struggles to tell new people what she offers. “I think that’s a really difficult question, because I literally sell magic,” laughs the 41-year-old. “So, I normally say I sell fairies.
” With a distinct woodland fairytale theme outside and in, Tinkerbells Emporium specialises in keepsakes and gifts of the mystical and spiritual variety, with plenty of glitter and fairy dust sprinkled on top. Products range from garden ornaments and scented candles to books and soft toys. Stepping through the door, colourful, well-stocked shelves on every wall vie for shoppers’ attention, while soothing music and the sweet scent of incense keeps the atmosphere calm.
“When people come in, they either 100% get the shop and they fall in love straight away, or they’ve got no idea what’s going on. If somebody’s not really into fairies or mystical things, they won’t get it,” explains Lisa. “But children, 100% of the time, get it.
And a lot of people revert back to being children when they’re in .