Attractions and Places To See in Clackmannanshire - Top 20
Attractions and places to see in Clackmannanshire offer a blend of historical landmarks and natural features. Known as "The Wee County," it is situated between the Ochil Hills and the River Forth. The region provides opportunities for exploring both its history and its natural landscapes. Visitors can find a variety of outdoor activities and cultural sites.
Best attractions and places to see in Clackmannanshire
- The most popular attractions is Ben Cleuch summit, a natural monument that is the highest point in the Ochil Hills at 721m. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Another must-see spot is The Law (Ochil Hills), a viewpoint and subsidiary peak of Ben Cleuch. This summit provides extensive views after a climb.
- Visitors also love Clackmannan Way Cycle Path, an off-road cycle way with smooth asphalt. It offers a route through rural Scottish scenery.
- Clackmannanshire is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and cycling routes. The region features 49 highlights, including waterfalls, woodlands, and viewpoints to see and explore.
- The attractions in Clackmannanshire are appreciated by the komoot community, with 93 upvotes and 40 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Ben Cleuch summit
Highlight โข Natural Monument
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Clackmannan Way Cycle Path
Highlight โข Cycleway
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Waterfalls of Alva Glen
Highlight โข Waterfall
Alva Glen is a diverse and attractive glen. The forest floor is carpeted with many wild flowers and thereโs a variety of wildlife to spot, such as the kestrel and the long tailed wagtail.
The glen is managed by the Alva Glen Heritage Trust which is run entirely by volunteers. They regularly plant new tree and shrubs in the area as well as removing non-native species of plant.
Each year the formal garden and waterfalls are illuminated by coloured lights. These stunning Alva Glen illuminations have been attracting people from all over central Scotland for many years.
As you follow the path from the car park you reach the first of five waterfalls, the highlights of the glen, including the 23m Craighorn Fall and the Big Fall, a hidden waterfall which cascades magically into the Smugglers Cave. You can also see a number of ancient hill-terraces, known locally as โThe Delvinsโ, on the slopes of the glen.
The glen was once the centre of a busy textile industry and the remnants of an old dam and numerous workshops can be spotted. There are a number information signs to tell you about the history of the area.
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Silver Glen Waterfall and Silver Mine
Highlight โข Waterfall
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Smugglers' Cave, Alva Glen
Highlight โข Cave
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Woodland Streams at Ochil Hills Woodland Park
Highlight โข Forest
As well as attractive walks in deciduous woodland, the park has a children's play area, a number of picnic sites and display boards describing the former grandeur of the old estate.
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Craighorn Fall, Alva Glen
Highlight โข Waterfall
Alva Glen is a diverse and attractive glen. The forest floor is carpeted with many wild flowers and thereโs a variety of wildlife to spot, such as the kestrel and the long tailed wagtail.
The glen is managed by the Alva Glen Heritage Trust which is run entirely by volunteers. They regularly plant new tree and shrubs in the area as well as removing non-native species of plant.
Each year the formal garden and waterfalls are illuminated by coloured lights. These stunning Alva Glen illuminations have been attracting people from all over central Scotland for many years.
As you follow the path from the car park you reach the first of five waterfalls, the highlights of the glen, including the 23m Craighorn Fall and the Big Fall, a hidden waterfall which cascades magically into the Smugglers Cave. You can also see a number of ancient hill-terraces, known locally as โThe Delvinsโ, on the slopes of the glen.
The glen was once the centre of a busy textile industry and the remnants of an old dam and numerous workshops can be spotted. There are a number information signs to tell you about the history of the area.
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Alloa Tower
Highlight โข Monument
The walls of this medieval tower tell some incredible stories and even come complete with their own dungeon! As you explore the towerโs four floors, youโll hear tales of an abbotโs curse, crib ghosts, fortunes and titles lost and regained, and the buildingโs ruin and restoration.
The tower is packed with arresting architectural anomalies, such as the stone well built into the tower walls and the magnificent vaulted beamed ceiling. You will see artworks on display by Henry Raeburn and Van Dyck, along with precious china, silverware, period costumes and furnishings.
The ancestral home of the Erskine family, the Earls of Mar and Kellie, Alloa Tower is one of Scotlandโs largest surviving medieval tower houses. It has been altered over the centuries and is now an 18th-century mansion contained within a medieval shell. The Tower is home to an important collection of portraits, silver and furniture, which are loaned from the familyโs private collections.
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Gartmorn Dam Beach
Highlight โข Beach
A weir was built on the Black Devon river at Forestmill and a lade aqueduct dug out 2 miles to the marshy hollow that was then Gartmorn.
An earthen dam held back the water providing a constant supply for Sauchie Pumps. Once this Dam was full it was flushed through a pipe system and with the flow of water silt which had built up in Alloa Harbour was removed making it easy for Ships to Dock in Alloa. Thus the water went full cycle and was completely regenerated.
The tail race down to the forth from the Gartmorn Dam together with the flow from local burns provided power for Alloa industries such as Tobacco snuff and corn grinding which were later replaced by distilling brewing and spinning. Before steam power took over in the 1860โs the tail race powered up to three colliery engines and 9 mills
In the early 19th Century Alloa grew in population and more demand was needed for water. In 1820 the Earl of Mar granted the Burgh the right to extract water from the tail race in 1891 the Alloa water act was passed and the reservoir was in enlarged and filter station was built the dam was then able to supply to the growing pop and local industry and did so for the next 100 years
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Gartmorn Dam
Highlight โข Viewpoint
Today it's a nature reserve with a good network of paths allowing you to walk around the loch and explore the reserve.
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Tips from the Community
nice cycle way, can be busy at weekends with walkers and joggers. can gain access to Devilla forest and Fife Coastal path from this route
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Great relaxed through route on car free tarmac. Popular with dog walkers and the odd horse rider. Please share with care and respect.
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If you are looking for a peaceful retreat to enjoy nature, you might want to visit Gartmorn Dam Country Park and Nature Reserve near Sauchie. It is the oldest reservoir in Scotland and covers an area of 370 acres. You can walk, cycle, horse ride or fish around the 170 acre reservoir, which has fine views over Clackmannanshire and the Firth of Forth. You can also spot red squirrels and migratory wildfowl in the park, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The dam was built by Sir John Erskine, the 6th Earl of Mar, in 1700 to power the pumps for his coal mines. It also provided water for Alloa's industrial development, especially the breweries. There is a cafe, free parking and wheelchair access at the park.
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Quiet place I also use for MTB
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Can be busy in summer months. Cormorants and herons a common sight.
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Highest peak in Central Belt of Scotland and excellent views of the belt and highland to the north
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit in Clackmannanshire?
Clackmannanshire is rich in history. You can explore the impressive 14th-century Alloa Tower, one of Scotland's largest and oldest surviving keeps. Another significant landmark is Castle Campbell, a dramatic 15th-century fortress perched above Dollar Glen. Menstrie Castle, a 16th-century tower house, is also notable as the birthplace of Sir William Alexander, who founded Nova Scotia.
Where can I experience the natural beauty of Clackmannanshire?
The region offers stunning natural landscapes. The Ochil Hills provide rolling green scenery and hiking trails, with highlights like Ben Cleuch summit offering panoramic views. You can also explore picturesque areas such as Dollar Glen and Alva Glen, known for its waterfalls. Gartmorn Dam Country Park and Nature Reserve is another peaceful spot for walks and birdwatching.
Are there any notable waterfalls in Clackmannanshire?
Yes, Clackmannanshire features several beautiful waterfalls. Alva Glen is particularly known for its series of five waterfalls, including the impressive Craighorn Fall, which plunges 23 meters. You can also find the Silver Glen Waterfall, which has historical connections to silver mining.
What family-friendly attractions are available in Clackmannanshire?
Families can enjoy several spots. Gartmorn Dam Country Park and Nature Reserve offers well-maintained trails, picnic areas, and serene views. The Clackmannan Way Cycle Path is an excellent off-road route with smooth asphalt, suitable for family bike rides. Additionally, the Ochil Hills Woodland Park provides attractive walks through deciduous woodland and a children's play area.
What hiking opportunities are available in Clackmannanshire?
Clackmannanshire offers diverse hiking experiences, from easy strolls to challenging climbs. Popular routes include ascents in the Ochil Hills to summits like Ben Cleuch and The Law. For easier options, consider the Dollar Glen & Castle Campbell loop or trails around Gartmorn Dam. You can find more detailed routes in our guide to Easy hikes in Clackmannanshire.
Can I go cycling in Clackmannanshire?
Absolutely! Clackmannanshire is great for cycling, featuring the Clackmannan Way Cycle Path, an excellent off-road route with smooth asphalt. The region also has numerous road cycling routes that take you through scenic rural Scottish landscapes. Explore more options in our guides for Cycling in Clackmannanshire and Road Cycling Routes in Clackmannanshire.
Are there any unique gardens or cultural sites to visit?
Yes, the Japanese Garden at Cowden is a unique and beautiful attraction, offering historic Japanese garden aesthetics and newly restored woodland walks. For local history, Dollar Museum serves as a 'storehouse of local treasures,' and the Tullibody Heritage Centre provides insights into the local heritage of Tullibody.
What are the best places for birdwatching in Clackmannanshire?
The Black Devon Wetlands, managed by RSPB Scotland, is an important habitat for waders and migratory birds, featuring boardwalks and viewing areas. Gartmorn Dam Country Park and Nature Reserve is also a good spot for birdwatching, with its peaceful reservoir attracting various species.
What do visitors enjoy most about Clackmannanshire's attractions?
Visitors frequently praise the panoramic views from the Ochil Hills, especially from Ben Cleuch summit, noting that the climb is well worth it. The smooth asphalt and rural scenery of the Clackmannan Way Cycle Path are also highly appreciated for enjoyable rides. Many also enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of places like Alva Glen and Gartmorn Dam.
Are there any accessible places for visitors with limited mobility?
While specific accessibility details vary, Gartmorn Dam Country Park offers well-maintained, relatively flat trails around the reservoir, which can be suitable for some visitors with limited mobility. The Clackmannan Way Cycle Path, being an off-road, smooth asphalt path, may also be suitable for wheelchairs or mobility scooters in parts. It's always advisable to check specific site conditions before visiting.
Where can I find information about local art and sculptures?
Clackmannanshire features the Andy Scott Public Art Trail, which showcases six magnificent public artworks by Andy Scott, one of the UK's leading public artists. These sculptures are located throughout the region, offering an interesting cultural experience.
What is the best time of year to visit Clackmannanshire?
Clackmannanshire can be enjoyed year-round, but the spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling in the Ochil Hills or exploring glens. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer dramatic, crisp landscapes, though some trails might be more challenging.
Most popular routes in Clackmannanshire
Most popular attractions in Clackmannanshire
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