Doune Castle and the River Teith

This short walk around the fascinating small town of Doune takes in the mighty castle as well as a fine section of riverbank.

Terrain

Easy to follow paths; muddy section by the river Teith.

Public Transport

Bus to Doune.

Start

Doune town centre - Castlehill car park. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Walk Description

Stage 1

Park in the centre of Doune - there is a car park just off Castle Hill which leads to the main road opposite the fine church. Begin by heading along Castle Hill towards the school, then take the second road on the left - signed Public Path to Doune Castle and the River Teith. At the end of the road turn right and go through the pedestrian gate, then following the left hand path towards the Castle which is visible ahead. This area was once part of a Roman Fort, which was only rediscovered following an aerial survey in the 1980s. At the end of the field the path passes through another gate and bears right into the woods.

Stage 2

The path soon bears left to leave the woods and reach a road; turn right and then left to walk into the Castle's car park, then continuing to pass to the left of the great fortress. Doune Castle was built at the end of the 14th century and remains in good condition today - it is well worth a visit. Monty Python fans may recognise it as it was heavily used in the filming of Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Stage 3

Follow the track which rounds the castle and bears right through a gate, sloping downhill between the Ardoch Burn over to the left and the River Teith on the right. There are good views back to the castle; look out also for the sculptures amongst the trees. When the track reaches the sewage works take the path round to the left which heads through a tunnel of vegetation before reaching a bench at the meeting of the burn and the river.

Stage 4

Turn right here to walk upstream alongside the Teith. The path narrows and is slightly rough for a time; pass through a pedestrian gate and continue beside the river. A small side-stream is crossed by some old stone slabs which were probably old sluice gates. When a high fence blocks the route near a house follow the path up to the right; it soon leads up to the main road. Turn right along the pavement to head back into Doune.

Stage 5

When the road forks take the quieter option on the right, between the Muir Hall and the Woodside Hotel. The road leads past several fascinating buildings, including the Episcopal church, the Moray Institute, and some picturesque cottages. Emerge on the main street by the Mercat Cross, and then turn right along it to head back to the start.

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