Devil's Pulpit
Descend into Finnich Glen, a magical gorge with striking red waters and moss-covered sandstone walls, known as the Devil's Pulpit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Devil's Pulpit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Descend into Finnich Glen, a magical gorge with striking red waters and moss-covered sandstone walls, known as the Devil's Pulpit.
"A stunning natural formation with an eerie name, the Devil's Pulpit is a must-see for its unique red waters."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The paths are steep and can be very slippery, especially after rain. Good grip is essential!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is notoriously difficult. Aim to arrive early to secure a spot, or be prepared to walk further.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Finnich Glen Gorge
The gorge itself
Descend into a magical, moss-covered sandstone gorge with striking red waters.
The Devil's Pulpit Rock
Within the gorge
A unique mushroom-shaped rock formation that gives the glen its famous, eerie name.
Red Sandstone Walls
Gorge walls
Marvel at the vibrant red sandstone that makes the water appear crimson.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Gorge: Safety First
Parking and Access Challenges
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The paths are steep and can be very slippery, especially after rain. Good grip is essential!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is notoriously difficult. Aim to arrive early to secure a spot, or be prepared to walk further.
📸 Bring Your Camera
The unique red water and mossy rocks make for incredible photo opportunities.
⚠️ Heed Safety Warnings
Be aware of the risks; mountain rescue has been called out multiple times.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The paths are steep and can be very slippery, especially after rain. Good grip is essential!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is notoriously difficult. Aim to arrive early to secure a spot, or be prepared to walk further.
📸 Bring Your Camera
The unique red water and mossy rocks make for incredible photo opportunities.
⚠️ Heed Safety Warnings
Be aware of the risks; mountain rescue has been called out multiple times.
💧 Water is Not Drinkable
The water is cold and has a reddish hue due to the sandstone, but it's not safe for drinking.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Devil's Pulpit's stunning, otherworldly beauty, with its unique red waters and mossy gorge. Many find the hike rewarding, though parking and the steep, slippery paths are significant drawbacks. Despite the challenges, the visual spectacle makes it a memorable destination for many.
"Good walk from the wireworks carpark (free!) in Tintern to the Devils Pulpit. Cross the bridge and go on up. Took us just over 2 hours to go up and down on a good walk. 6.66km in the end to the devils Pulpit… most of the way was under trees and couldn’t see the river or views. Dry day so dry under foot. Thought we would have better views of the great valley. View from the pulpit was good but limited. Worth it though."
Neil Richardson
"A nice walk up from Tintern and part of the Offas Dyke trail it's a nice spot with some interesting history, but views are limited by the tall trees. You get a little window down to Tintern Abbey, but broader views are not available.
You can clamber down and then up onto the rock, but beware it's not that easy to get up onto and even more difficult to get off of. The rock is very smoothly polished by people climbing it and I can imagine it would be very slippery when wet."
Kevin Arscott (The Walking Kev)
"A nice small trekking place with slightly reddish water and small water slopes. Nice and cold water not suitable for drinking."
JITHIN RAJ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Devil's Pulpit (Finnich Glen) is located about a 30-minute drive north of Glasgow. While there's no direct public transport, driving is the most common method. Be aware that parking is extremely limited and can be a significant challenge.
Parking is very limited and often described as 'horrific' by visitors. Many people have to abandon their cars or walk a considerable distance. Arriving very early is your best bet.
Public transport options are scarce. While it's a relatively short drive from Glasgow, reaching it without a car can be difficult. Research local bus routes and be prepared for a significant walk from the nearest stop.
The most common access point involves a steep path known as Jacob's Ladder. This path is unmaintained and can be very slippery, so sturdy footwear is crucial.
Yes, the Devil's Pulpit is located in Finnich Glen, which is near Drymen and in the vicinity of Loch Lomond National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the Devil's Pulpit. It's a natural gorge accessible to the public.
As a natural outdoor attraction, the Devil's Pulpit does not have set opening hours. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee for Finnich Glen. Access to the gorge and its natural beauty is free for all visitors.
While there are no official restrictions, visitors are strongly advised to be cautious due to the steep and slippery terrain. Safety warnings have been issued due to past incidents.
It can be safe if you are well-prepared. Wear appropriate footwear, be mindful of the slippery conditions, and do not attempt to climb on wet rocks. Mountain rescue has been called to the area multiple times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The real name of the gorge is Finnich Glen. 'The Devil's Pulpit' is a more popular, evocative name derived from a mushroom-shaped rock formation.
The water appears red due to the unique red sandstone that lines the gorge. This natural phenomenon creates a striking visual effect.
Due to the steep and slippery paths, it's generally not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues. Older children who are sure-footed might enjoy it with close supervision.
While the water looks inviting, it is cold and not suitable for swimming. Visitors are advised against entering the water due to safety concerns and the risk of slips.
The name 'Devil's Pulpit' comes from a mushroom-shaped rock where it's said the devil once preached. It was also used as St. Ninian's Spring in the TV series Outlander.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings often offer fewer crowds and softer light, ideal for photography. However, the gorge's unique atmosphere can be captured at various times, though low light can be a challenge. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the gorge. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures. Drones offer unique aerial perspectives.
The 'pulpit' rock formation itself is a key subject. The winding path down and the vibrant red water are also highly photogenic. Experiment with different angles from the gorge floor.
Consider using a drone for aerial views, or focus on capturing the textures of the moss and sandstone. Long exposures can create a dreamy effect with the water.
The main challenges are slippery conditions, limited light in the gorge, and crowds. Be patient and prioritize safety when setting up shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do decide to visit with older, more adventurous children, ensure they are wearing appropriate footwear and are closely supervised at all times. The unique red water and mossy rocks might capture their imagination, but safety must be the top priority. Consider alternative, more accessible nature walks in the wider Loch Lomond area if you have younger children.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
The visual payoff is immense, with the striking red waters and moss-covered sandstone creating an unforgettable natural spectacle. It's a fantastic spot for photography and for those who appreciate unusual geological formations. Be prepared for potentially crowded conditions, especially on weekends, and always prioritize safety on the slippery paths.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
To get the best shots, aim for early morning visits to avoid crowds and capture softer light. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for the gorge's scale, and a tripod can help with low-light conditions. Drone footage offers breathtaking aerial views, showcasing the glen's dramatic contours.
Be aware that the terrain can be challenging for setting up equipment, and safety is paramount. The 'pulpit' rock itself is an iconic subject, but exploring different angles and focusing on the textures and colors can yield stunning results.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Finnich Glen: History and Lore
+1Beyond its devilish tales, the glen also holds historical significance. It was once known as St. Ninian's Spring, or Liar's Spring, and played a role in the first season of the popular TV series Outlander. In one memorable scene, Dougal asks Claire to drink from the spring, a moment that solidifies his trust in her. This connection to Outlander has drawn many fans to the location, adding another layer to its appeal.
The visual spectacle of Finnich Glen is undeniable. The deep gorge, carved by the Finnich Burn, features striking red sandstone walls that give the water a vibrant, almost blood-red hue. This unique coloration, combined with the lush, moss-covered rocks, creates a scene that feels otherworldly and has captivated photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Navigating the Terrain: Safety and Accessibility
Multiple incidents have led to mountain rescue being called to the area, highlighting the potential dangers. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings, avoid climbing on wet rocks, and exercise extreme caution. The smooth, polished surface of the rocks, particularly the 'pulpit' itself, can be treacherous.
While the visual reward is immense, the accessibility can be challenging. The steepness and slipperiness make it unsuitable for young children, the elderly, or individuals with mobility issues. Those who are able to navigate the path will be rewarded with a truly unique and memorable natural spectacle.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Finnich Glen
To best capture the glen's beauty, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds. A wide-angle lens is ideal for encompassing the scale of the gorge, while a tripod can be beneficial for capturing detail in the lower light conditions within the glen. Drone photography offers a spectacular perspective, showcasing the full extent of the gorge's dramatic landscape.
Be mindful of the challenging terrain when setting up your shots. Prioritize safety over the perfect angle, especially on slippery surfaces. The 'pulpit' rock formation is a natural focal point, but don't overlook the intricate details of the mossy rocks and the flow of the red water for compelling compositions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit