Darn Walk: Bridge of Allan to Dunblane

This beautiful linear walk links Bridge of Allan to Dunblane, close by the river for much of the route, following the line of an ancient path known as the Darn Road which is reputed to date back to Roman times. The return can be made by bus or train.

Terrain

Riverside paths and rough old lane.

Public Transport

Buses and trains link to both Bridge of Allan and Dunblane.

Start

Bridge of Allan. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 4.25km / 2.75 miles
Time: 1 - 1.5 hours
Ascent: 83m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NS789976

Maps, App and GPS

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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

Bridge of Allan has its origins as an important spa town but its proximity to Stirling has made it a pleasant commuter centre. The walk begins by heading up Blairforkie Drive which leaves the main street on the east side of the bridge over the river. If starting from the town centre head west to reach this point; if starting at the rail station then head east. Head along the pavement, noting the weir under the bridge on the main road. Blairforkie Drive passes some new housing; ignore a turning on the left. Follow the road as it climbs uphill, then turn left onto a footpath which descends steeply between two fences.

Stage 2

The path soon reaches the River Allan. Continue by the finely wooded riverbank, crossing a bridge over a small tributary at one point and then bearing right as the route enters more extensive woods. The path then drops down in a leafy gully to cross another tributary bridge before coming back beside the Allan.

Stage 3

Further on there is an obvious cave on the right. This was one of writer Robert Louis Stevenson's favourite spots, having spent childhood holidays at Bridge of Allan, and the cave is said to have been the inspiration for Ben Gunn's cave in Treasure Island. Ignore the concrete bridge over the Allan but keep on the main route when a smaller path forks off to the right. A signposted junction is then reached; cross the footbridge here, signed Dunblane 2km.

Stage 4

The second half of the route follows a stony old lane, between two walls at first. It ascends a little and soon has good open views over fields and a golf course; further on Dunblane becomes visible with, in clear weather, views to Highland peaks such as Ben Ledi, Stuc a'Chroin and Ben Vorlich as a splendid backdrop.

Stage 5

Later the path continues between green fields. Eventually the main, dual carriageway road is reached on the edge of town. Cross this very carefully and head down the road almost opposite, signed for the town centre and railway station.

Stage 6

At the next junction the station is round to the left, whereas the old heart of Dunblane - well worth exploring with its historic buildings including the cathedral - is straight ahead up the pedestrian street. If you haven't yet had enough, you could continue further by the river, following the Dunblane - Ashfield path.

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