Attractions and Places To See around Causewayhead - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Causewayhead, a district of Stirling, Scotland, encompass a variety of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The area provides access to prominent hills like Dumyat in the Ochil Hills and the River Forth. Causewayhead offers a mix of historical significance and natural landscapes, making it a notable location for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Causewayhead
- The most popular attractions is Dumyat Summit and Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Memorial, a summit that is a hill in the Ochil Hills near Stirling. It is a popular spot for walkers and mountain bikers, offering views across to Stirling and beyond.
- Another must-see spot is Stirling Castle, a castle that is one of Scotland's historically important sites. It was a favored residence of Stewart kings and queens, featuring sculptures and gardens.
- Visitors also love Waterfalls of Alva Glen, a spectacular gorge situated above the village of Alva. This glen features five waterfalls, including the 23m Craighorn Fall, and is rich in wildflowers and wildlife.
- Causewayhead is known for historical sites, natural features, and family-friendly activities. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient bridges to hill summits.
- The attractions around Causewayhead are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 150 upvotes and 90 photos shared.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Dumyat Summit and Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Memorial
Highlight • Summit
It's an unmistakable hill for its shape, with two main summits of Castle Law on the west, and Dumyat to the east.
At the summit you'll find a memorial to the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, a trig point, and a beacon-topped cairn that is currently filled with stones that represent wishes.
Commissioned for the Queen's Silver Jubilee in 1977, this beacon was carried up by hand by the Menstrie Scout Group as part of a chain of beacons across the UK.
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Stirling Castle
Highlight • Castle
Knights, nobles and foreign ambassadors once flocked to Stirling Castle to revel in its grandeur with its superb sculptures and beautiful gardens. It was a favoured residence of the Stewart kings and queens who held grand celebrations from christenings to coronations.
Open
1 April to 30 September:
Monday to Sunday, 9.30am to 6pm
1 October to 31 March:
Monday to Sunday, 9.30am to 5pm
New Year’s Day (1 January): 11am to 5pm
Last entry to Stirling Castle is 45 minutes before closing. The Regimental Museum closes 45 minutes before the castle.
Café opening hours
The Unicorn Café is open year-round and serves a delicious menu of traditional hot and cold food.
The Pentice open-air café is open from April to September and offers a good selection of sandwiches, home baking and hot/cold drinks.
Closed
Christmas Day
Boxing Day
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Stirling Old Town Jail
Highlight • Historical Site
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Waterfalls of Alva Glen
Highlight • Waterfall
Alva Glen is a diverse and attractive glen. The forest floor is carpeted with many wild flowers and there’s 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 ‘The Delvins’, 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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Church of the Holy Rude
Highlight • Religious Site
The name Church of the Holy Rude was first given to a church that stood on this site in the 1130s. "Holy Rude" means Holy Cross, giving it the same origin as Holyrood in Edinburgh.
Its close proximity to Stirling Castle led the church to its almost unique place in history. On 29 July 1567 the infant James VI was crowned King of Scotland in Holy Rude following the forced abdication of his mother, Mary Queen of Scots (see our Historical Timeline).
The hastily arranged Protestant coronation ceremony included a sermon by John Knox to guests who emphatically didn't include James' mother, still imprisoned at the time in Lochleven Castle.
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Tips from the Community
Highly recommend the Escape Rooms based out of the Old Town Jail in Stirling!
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Who doesn't remember the movie Braveheart with Mel Gibson as William Wallace? Although these two people never met, they are closely connected through the film.
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The prison, then called the "New County Jail," opened in November 1847 as a reformatory prison, almost directly adjacent to the Tolbooth (now a theater), then notorious as the worst prison in Britain. Through the work of Elizabeth Fry and other pioneering prison reformers, Frederick Hill was appointed Scotland's first Inspector of Prisons in 1840. He then commissioned the architect Thomas Brown to build the new prison according to William Brenner's "Separate System." A visit is well worth it, as the first part of the tour is presented by actors who take on multiple roles. More information here: https://oldtownjail.co.uk/history/
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It was a great hike and very enjoyable. It’s not too long, but part of the trail involves climbing over some rocks, which can be a bit slippery if it’s wet. The path coming back down the backside is muddy, so if it’s been raining, it’s better to return the same way you went up.
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One of many castles in Scotland, very beautiful and well organized. The history is very interesting and in my opinion also worthwhile. Entry can be booked with or without a donation, I recommend with a donation, the money is well spent there. Go there and enjoy
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So much to see and do at this wonderful castle - a great day out!
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The old graves all around alone make you feel sensual.
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The historical surroundings and the view over Sterling are impressive
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Causewayhead?
Causewayhead is rich in history. You can visit Stirling Castle, a historically important site and former residence of Stewart kings and queens, known for its sculptures and gardens. Another significant landmark is the Old Stirling Bridge, famous for its role in the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297. For a unique historical experience, the Stirling Old Town Jail offers insights into 19th-century prison life.
Are there any natural attractions or scenic viewpoints near Causewayhead?
Absolutely. The Dumyat Summit and Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Memorial in the Ochil Hills offers significant views across Stirling and beyond, popular with walkers and mountain bikers. You can also explore the Waterfalls of Alva Glen, a spectacular gorge with multiple waterfalls, including Craighorn Fall and the hidden Big Fall, alongside diverse flora and fauna. Abbey Craig, home to the National Wallace Monument, also provides panoramic views and woodland paths.
What outdoor activities are available around Causewayhead?
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes, such as the 'Old Stirling Bridge – Stirling Baptist Church loop' or the 'Animal Carvings Bench – Scottish Animal Sculptures loop'. For more challenging adventures, there are gravel biking routes like the 'Dunblane Cathedral and Museum – Braes of Doune Wind Farm loop' and mountain biking trails including the 'Stirling University to Mine Woods, Cocksburn Reservoir and Witches Craig loop'. Find more details on these routes in the easy hikes, gravel biking, and MTB trails guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Causewayhead?
Yes, several attractions cater to families. Stirling Castle is a great option, offering historical exploration and beautiful gardens. The Stirling Old Town Jail provides an engaging, immersive experience into the past. Additionally, Causewayhead Park features a children's play area and multi-use games area, while nearby KIDZ TOWN Role-Play Centre and Escape Stirling offer indoor entertainment for various ages.
Where can I find easy walking trails near Causewayhead?
For easy walks, consider the paths around Causewayhead Park which connect to Abbey Craig and the National Wallace Monument. Riverside paths along the River Forth also offer gentle strolls. Komoot's Easy hikes around Causewayhead guide lists several options, including loops from the University of Stirling that pass by the Old Stirling Bridge.
What is the National Wallace Monument and how can I access it?
The National Wallace Monument is an iconic landmark on Abbey Craig, commemorating Sir William Wallace. It offers panoramic views of the area. You can access it via walks directly from Causewayhead Park, which lead up to the monument and offer various woodland paths and hiking trails.
Can I spot any wildlife in the Causewayhead area?
Yes, the Waterfalls of Alva Glen is a good spot for wildlife. Its diverse forest floor and natural environment mean you might spot various species, including kestrels and long-tailed wagtails. The glen is actively managed to preserve its natural beauty and biodiversity.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' attractions in the region?
Beyond the main historical sites, the Waterfalls of Alva Glen could be considered a hidden gem, with its dramatic gorges, multiple waterfalls (including the 'Big Fall' cascading into Smugglers Cave), ancient hill-terraces known as 'The Delvins', and remnants of a former textile industry. It also features seasonal illuminations.
What are the best times to visit Stirling Castle?
Stirling Castle is open year-round, typically from 9:30 AM to 6 PM between April and September, and 9:30 AM to 5 PM from October to March. It's closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. The Unicorn Café is open year-round, and an open-air café operates from April to September. Last entry is 45 minutes before closing.
What are the Ochil Hills like for outdoor enthusiasts?
The Ochil Hills, which include Dumyat Summit, offer dramatic views over Stirling, the Wallace Monument, Stirling Castle, and the River Forth. The terrain varies from woodland paths and riverside walks to more challenging ascents and open moorland, making them suitable for various levels of walkers and mountain bikers.
Are there any circular walking routes available?
Yes, many hiking and walking trails around Causewayhead are circular. Komoot's Easy hikes around Causewayhead guide features several circular routes, such as the 'Cambuskenneth Abbey Bell Tower loop' and the 'View of Airthrey Castle – Whale Sculpture loop', both starting from the University of Stirling.
Most popular routes around Causewayhead
Most popular attractions around Causewayhead
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