Founded in 1888, Stirling grew rapidly due to the rapidly increasing demand for fruit and vegetables from the nearby capital Adelaide. At the same time, it became a retreat for English-born immigrants who couldn't stand the hot summers in the capital. In the meantime, however, the importance of agriculture has decreased significantly and Stirling is mainly home to people who commute to Adelaide every day.
Due to the mild and humid climate, a lot of trees brought from Europe could thrive here, which attract many tourists, especially in autumn. Other attractions include the nearby Belair National Park and the Cleland Conservation Park.
Due to its location in the Adelaide Hills and especially to Mount Lofty, the highest point in this mountain range at 727 m, Stirling is the wettest place in South Australia. With a rainfall of 1200 mm per year it is twice as high as the national average.
