A guide to the Hillfoots villages

Our restaurant is located within the beautiful Broomhall Castle in the village of Menstrie. This is part of the Hillfoots, a collection of villages that sit at the foot of the Ochil Hills in Scotland. For those planning to visit the Hillfoots, we’ve put together this guide to help you out. Be sure to come and see us for some delicious food and drink on your travels!

The Hillfoots villages

The Hillfoots villages in Clackmannshire comprise of Blairlogie, Menstrie, Alva, Tillicoultry, Devonside, Coalsnaughton, Dollar and Muckhart. Their proximity to the Ochill Hills make them popular for walking and hiking holidays. The area is known for its connection to the historic textile industry in Scotland, with local burns and rivers once playing a crucial role in supporting the local mills. Follow the Hillfoots Trail for a tour of these picturesque villages and discover all they have to offer…

Blairlogie

Blairlogie is the most westerly village of the Hillfoots, near the city of Stirling. Its scenic charm, nestled in the shadows of the great Dumyat Hill, makes it a fantastic place to start our tour. The village features pictuesque 18th and 19th-century cottages and is an officially designated conservation area.

Menstrie

Following the Hillfoots Trail eastwards, Mestrie is the next village along. Of course, this is home to Broomhall Castle and our castle restaurant. There are lots of beautiful walks you can access from Menstrie, including a gentler path up Dumyat Hill.

Alva

Next comes Alva, a small town with a beautiful glen and trails that take visitors through waterfalls, rocky outcrops and lovely views. Alva Glen is also full of wildlife, including deer and a wide variety of birds, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Tillicoultry

Tillicoultry is a small village, which is again popular with walkers for its local scenic hill walks. It is also home to Sterling Mills Outlet Shopping Village, offering discounted high street shops, a children’s play park and plenty of events on throughout the year.

Devonside

Devonside is a quiet and peaceful hamlet within the parish of Tillicoutry. It overlooks the River Devon, where you can enjoy riverside walks and fishing.

Coalsnaughton

Coalsnaughton within Tillicoutry parish has a rich history tied to Scotland’s coal mining industry, from which its name derives.

Dollar

Dollar is a small town, attracting visitors to Dollar Glen and the ruins of Castle Campbell, once the seat of the powerful Clan Campbell. With wooded trails, a variety of wildlife and a rich history, it is a highlight of the Hillfoots trail.

Muckhart

Finally, Muckhart marks the easterly end of our tour of the Hillfoots villages. Attractions here include Muckhart Golf Club, Muckhart Parish Church and the nearby Castlehill Reservoir.

We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring the Hillfoots villages with us. Find more local things to do with our blog.