NS4777 : A boulder called Gilbert Scott

Duncolm

401m Elevation
305m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NS4777 : A boulder called Gilbert Scott

Lairich Rig Photo source

Explore routes near Duncolm

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

Kirkintilloch to Twechar Bridge: Forth and Clyde Canal Return

10.7 km ~3h Easy

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Loch Ard Forest: Sculpture Trail and Little Loch Ard

6.9 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Ben Lomond in the trossachs

12.1 km ~5h Hard

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Loch Katrine: Brenachoile Point Shore Walk from Trossachs Pier

7.2 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Route planning notes

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

Duncolm Circuit

A loop starting and ending at the nearby car park, offering scenic views and a chance to explore the surrounding area.

6.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn 400-499m hill Current County/UA Top

Elevation

401m

1,316 ft

Prominence

305m

Coordinates

55.9660, -4.4515

NS470774

OS Map

64

Explorer: OL38 347

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a stone cairn and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with grassy patches becoming boggy in wet conditions.

Duncolm is primarily composed of volcanic rock, specifically basalt, which gives it a rugged appearance. The erosion of these rocks has contributed to the mountain's steep cliffs and distinctive features.

Views & Scenery

Distant views of the Campsie Fells, the Clyde Valley, and on clear days, even the outline of the Southern Highlands.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Duncolm' is believed to derive from the Gaelic 'Dun Chole', meaning 'the hill of the ugly man', though the only ugly thing here is the weather at times!

Historical Significance

A popular local hiking destination, known for its scenic beauty and accessibility.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a free car park on the B822 road. Please arrive early on weekends, as it fills up quickly.

Public Transport

Accessible via bus services from Glasgow, stop at the nearest village, then a short walk to the foot of the hill.

Nearby Facilities

There are limited facilities at the start of the hike. The nearest cafes and toilets are located in Milngavie.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Slippery rocks in wet weather, potential for sudden weather changes, and steep drops on some sides.

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 Duncolm?

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

Are there other walkers around Duncolm?

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 Duncolm search or of course create your own walk for Duncolm

Can I organise a walk to Duncolm?

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 Duncolm.

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 Duncolm?

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 Duncolm 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

Location

Duncolm location map

Grid reference: NS470774

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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