Bennan

398m Elevation
186m Prominence
Scotland Country

Good walks are even better shared.

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Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Bennan Hill Circular Route

A scenic loop starting from the village of Dalmellington, this route provides a moderate climb with rewarding views.

10 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn 300-399m hill

Elevation

398m

1,306 ft

Prominence

186m

Coordinates

55.0731, -3.8467

NX821769

OS Map

84

Explorer: 313 321

At the Summit

The summit features a modest cairn that often serves as a welcome resting point for tired hikers.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of grassy slopes and rocky outcrops with occasional boggy patches to keep things interesting.

Primarily composed of Old Red Sandstone, with interesting sedimentary features and some volcanic remnants nearby.

Views & Scenery

On a clear day, you can see as far as the Isle of Arran and the detailed contours of the surrounding hills.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Bennan' comes from the Scottish Gaelic 'Beinn' meaning 'mountain' - rather fitting, wouldn't you say?

Historical Significance

This area is rich in history, having been a site for ancient settlements, and it once bustled during the iron and coal mining boom.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available near the village hall in Dalmellington, easily accessible and free of charge.

Public Transport

Regular bus services from Ayr or Kilmarnock to Dalmellington.

Nearby Facilities

Dalmellington has a few cafes and shops where you can grab a bite or a coffee before or after your hike. Public toilets are also available.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Unpredictable weather changes, especially in winter; muddy conditions in wet seasons; potential for low visibility.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Bennan?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Bennan through the maps

Are there other walkers around Bennan?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Bennan search or of course create your own walk for Bennan

Can I organise a walk to Bennan?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Bennan.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Bennan?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Bennan here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible