Cir Mhor

Cir Mhor

Cir Mhor Group Walks | Join a Walk

798m Elevation
177m Prominence
Scotland Country

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Classifications

Marilyn Corbett Sim High Hill of Britain

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Elevation

798m

2,618 ft

Prominence

177m

Coordinates

55.6391, -5.2225

NR972431

OS Map

62 69

Explorer: 361N

At the Summit

At the summit, you'll find a stone cairn and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands and mountains.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with sections of scree.

Cir Mhor is primarily composed of granite and schist, which gives it a rugged appearance. The mountain's geology features glacially carved valleys and eroded cliffs, making it a fascinating site for geology enthusiasts.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the Ayrshire coast, the Paps of Jura, and the distant peaks of the Hebrides.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Cir Mhor' is derived from the Gaelic 'Cuir Mhor', meaning 'Big Circle', which likely references the mountain's circular plateau.

Historical Significance

Cir Mhor has been a site of cultural significance for centuries, often associated with traditional Scottish folklore.

Popular Routes

Cir Mhor via Glen Rosa

Hard

This classic route begins at the Glen Rosa campsite near Brodick. Follow the Glen Rosa track westward, enjoying views of Goatfell and the surrounding peaks. As the glen narrows, the trail climbs towards The Saddle, a prominent col. From The Saddle, a steep and rocky ascent leads to the summit of Cir Mhor, offering panoramic views of the Arran hills and the Firth of Clyde. Return the same way.

12 km 6 hours

Cir Mhor via Glen Sannox

Hard

Starting at the Glen Sannox car park, this route follows the glen's path southward, crossing the burn via stepping stones. The trail ascends towards The Saddle, with a steep and scrambly section before reaching the col. From there, climb the rocky slopes of Cir Mhor to the summit. Descend the same way or consider a circular route via Glen Rosa.

10 km 5.5 hours

Cir Mhor Circular via Caisteal Abhail

Very Hard

For a longer and more adventurous hike, start in Glen Sannox and ascend to Caisteal Abhail ('The Castles') via the northern ridge. From this peak, follow the ridge south to Cir Mhor, tackling some scrambling sections along the way. Descend via The Saddle and return via Glen Sannox. This route offers stunning ridge walking and spectacular views.

15 km 8 hours

Three Beinns Route Including Cir Mhor

Very Hard

This challenging route includes Beinn Tarsuinn, Cir Mhor, and Caisteal Abhail. Starting from Glen Rosa, ascend Beinn Tarsuinn first, then follow the ridge east to Cir Mhor before continuing to Caisteal Abhail. Descend via Glen Sannox for a memorable circular adventure across Arran's rugged terrain.

18 km 9 hours

Cir Mhor via Coire Daingean

Hard

This lesser-travelled route begins in Glen Rosa and ascends through Coire Daingean, an impressive corrie on Cir Mhor's eastern flank. The route is steep and pathless in places, requiring good navigation skills. After reaching the summit, return via The Saddle and Glen Rosa. A quieter option for experienced walkers.

13 km 7 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

North Goatfell car park (NR 964 429) offers ample space for parking.

Public Transport

Regular buses from Brodick provide access to the mountain.

Nearby Facilities

Brodick has several cafés, shops, and public toilets for your convenience.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Potential for rapid weather changes, rocky terrain requiring care, and steep drops on some sections.

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

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Cir Mhor?

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

Are there other walkers around Cir Mhor?

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 Cir Mhor search or of course create your own walk for Cir Mhor

Can I organise a walk to Cir Mhor?

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 Cir Mhor.

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 Cir Mhor?

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 Cir Mhor 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