Goatfell, from Brodick Castle

A fine pyramidal peak and a magnificent viewpoint, Goatfell is the highest of the mountains on Arran and the culminating point of some dramatic granite ridges. This is the most popular and straightforward route of ascent.

Terrain

Beaten earth tracks, aggregate footpaths and some light scrambling over granite boulders below the summit.

Public Transport

Users' reports

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Start

Cladach Visitor Centre. Map and directions.

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Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

Walk Statistics

Distance: 10.5km/6.5 miles
Time: 4.5 - 6 hours
Ascent: 874m (Profile)
Grid Ref: NS012376

Summits Climbed

Corbett: Goatfell

Maps / GPS

View / Print route map
Buy Explorer 361 - Arran
GPS Waypoints - QUO 2
GPS Waypoints - GPX
View in 3D
Download walk to Google Earth (KMZ file)

Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

This route actually begins from the Cladach Visitor Centre (parking). To reach the start from Brodick (from where there is a fine view of Goatfell across the Bay), take the Fisherman's Path from the seafront. Once at the Cladach head for the courtyard outside the Arran Brewery and behind the pink Wineport Bistro. Take the Goatfell path in the far corner and follow this as it ascends into the woodland.

Photo: Hermes

Stage 2

Ignore two paths branching off the main path, one to the right and then one to the left and go straight across the metalled road. Ignore the next minor path that crosses the main path, and the subsequent paths joining from the left and right. Eventually the main path curves sharply right, at this point carry straight on along a rougher path.

Photo: Chris Miles

Stage 3

There are now no further navigational difficulties. Although the walking becomes somewhat harder, the views back are superb, with Holy Island prominent beyond Brodick. The path leaves the woodland to cross heather moorland accompanied by the various tributaries of Cnocan Burn tumbling over a series of small waterfalls towards their eventual discharge in Brodick Bay, coming into view behind as the path ascends. Cross a footbridge at Mill Burn before the angle of ascent increases to attain the ridge between Meall Breac and Goatfell.

Photo: Chris Miles

Stage 4

Turn left (the Corrie path joins in here) and follow one of the several routes over and between the large rocks towards the summit - tantalisingly close for this final section for the route. Perseverance is rewarded with spectacular views, espescially over the surrounding ridges and peaks. The vista extends across the Clyde estuary and to Ireland on a clear day.

Photo: bill boyd

Stage 5

Return via the same route - enjoying the panoramic views over Brodick Bay - or retrace your steps part way before reversing the Corrie route, returning to the start point via the regular bus service.

Photo: Chris Miles
Route: Phil Turner

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Route Profile

Walking can be dangerous and is done entirely at your own risk. Information is provided free of charge; it is each walkers' responsibility to check it and navigate using a map and compass.

Goatfell, from Brodick Castle

Terrain

Public Transport

Users' reports

Start

Walk Statistics

Summits Climbed

Maps / GPS

Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

Photo: Hermes

Stage 2

Photo: Chris Miles

Stage 3

Photo: Chris Miles

Stage 4

Photo: bill boyd

Stage 5

Photo: Chris MilesRoute: Phil Turner

Route Profile

Photo: Chris Miles
Route: Phil Turner