Stretching for a grand 25 miles (40 km) between Stirling and the Firth of Tay, the undulating, green Ochil Hills reach their highest point here. Hikes to Ben Cleuch take you to the range’s rocky crown, rising prominently above its noble family to gaze out across this historic land, where the Central Belt meets the Scottish Highlands.

The southern escarpment is characterised by steep slopes bitten by deep glens, rising high above the settlements at its base. Its northern flanks are gentler in gradient but rougher underfoot and challenge you to much longer walk-ins. A number of subsidiary peaks can be enjoyed before reaching the summit, which is the highest point of Scotland’s Central Belt.

Sensational views to the Southern Highlands and across to the Firth of Forth

Walking routes to Ben Cleuch often start from the south, where the Ochils Woodland Park and the hillfoot towns of Alva and Tillicoultry nestle below the green sentinels above. Both these towns make for great bases, with a range of accommodation and amenities.

Bridges across tumbling burns, picturesque cascades and deep gorges characterise the lower reaches, whilst wild, open, bracken-clad hillsides set the tone for the high ground. Once you reach the surprisingly rock-strewn summit, a trig pillar, stone shelter and toposcope await.

The giants of the Southern Highlands can be seen on the northern horizon, with Ben Lomond, Stuc a’Chroin and Ben Vorlich particularly distinctive. To the south, the River Forth navigates a series of chicanes before straightening, widening and leading the eye towards its famous bridges and Edinburgh.

When the Highlands wear their white winter coat, you’ll be in for a treat from the summit. Reaching it in these conditions should be straightforward with decent winter boots and appropriate layers.

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Location: Tillicoultry, Coalsnaughton And Devonside, Clackmannanshire, Scotland, United Kingdom

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Scotty Laughland

August 24, 2020

Mountain biking

The views from up here make it all the more worth the climb!

Allan P.

June 22, 2021

Mountain biking

If reasonably competent, descend on mountain bike via very steep path to south west for a challenge.

51m

March 15, 2023

Running

At 721m Ben Cleuch is the highest point in the Ochils and offers a great view all around. It's classified as a Fiona and a Donald. A popular walk from the south as a loop from Tillicoultry, it also makes a great mountain run with plenty of ascent and a wonderful descent.

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Best routes near Ben Cleuch summit

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#1.

Ben Cleuch & the Ochil Hills loop from Tillicoultry

9.68km

03:44

670m

Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

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4.7

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#2.

The Law, Ben Cleuch & Ben Ever loop from Tillicoultry — Ochil Hills

10.9km

04:09

740m

750m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.4

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#3.