Goatfell [Goat Fell]
Good walks are even better shared.
NR9941 : Trig at Goatfell
Brian Robertson Photo source
Explore routes near Goatfell [Goat Fell]
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Goatfell from Cladach
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Ben Lomond in the trossachs
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Beinn Ime from Succoth
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The Cobbler from Succoth Carpark
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Corrie Route
Starting from the village of Corrie, this route ascends Goatfell via the northeast ridge. Begin at the Corrie car park and follow the well-marked path through mixed woodland and open moorland. The route offers stunning views over the Firth of Clyde before joining the main ridge for a rocky but manageable climb to the summit.
Brodick Castle Route
Starting from Brodick Castle, this is the most popular route up Goatfell. It begins with a pleasant walk through the castle grounds before following a well-trodden trail through heathland and up the southern slopes of the mountain. The path becomes steeper and rockier near the summit, but it is straightforward and rewarding.
North Goatfell Circular
This circular route starts in Corrie and ascends via the northeast ridge. From the summit of Goatfell, descend along the ridge to North Goatfell before returning to Corrie via a less frequented and scenic path. This route provides a more challenging experience with some minor scrambling along the ridge.
Cladach to Goatfell
Starting at Cladach Visitor Centre, this route follows a gradual ascent through mixed woodland, joining the main southern path to Goatfell. It is a straightforward and accessible route, suitable for walkers with moderate fitness levels. The climb offers incredible views over Brodick Bay and Arran's rugged interior.
Cìr Mhòr Traverse via Goatfell
This ambitious and adventurous route links Goatfell with the neighbouring peak of Cìr Mhòr. Starting in Brodick, ascend Goatfell via the southern path. From the summit, traverse the ridges to North Goatfell and continue to Cìr Mhòr, before descending Glen Rosa back to Brodick. It is a long and challenging day with breathtaking ridge walking and scrambling.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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NR9941 : Trig at Goatfell
Brian Robertson
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NR9941 : View north from Goatfell
Nigel Brown
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NR9941 : Goatfell triangulation pillar
Rob Farrow
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NR9941 : Newly painted Trig Point on Goat Fell
Brian Robertson
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NR9941 : Mountains of Northern Arran from viewpoint off A841
Rob Farrow
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NR9941 : Goatfell summit
Raibeart MacAoidh
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NR9941 : Goatfell trig point
Raibeart MacAoidh
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NR9941 : Goatfell summit, 1973
Jim Barton
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NR9941 : Late evening view of Goatfell
Richard Murchie
NR9941 : Isle of Arran and Goat Fell
Luath
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
875m
2,871 ft
Prominence
875m
Coordinates
55.6258, -5.1919
NR991415
OS Map
62 69
Explorer: 361N
At the Summit
The summit is marked by a substantial stone cairn and offers stunning panoramic views of the Isle of Arran and beyond.
Terrain & Geology
Goatfell is primarily composed of granite, which gives it its rugged and weather-beaten appearance. The mountain is also part of a folded geological structure that has resulted in striking cliffs and steep slopes.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, one can see the Firth of Clyde, Ailsa Craig, and the peaks of the Kintyre Peninsula. The breathtaking vistas are second to none.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
Goatfell's name is derived from the word 'gote', meaning 'goat', possibly referring to wild goats that once roamed the area.
Historical Significance
Goatfell has been a landmark for centuries and is often considered the 'king' of the Isle of Arran, attracting hikers and climbers alike.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
There is parking available at Glen Sannox or in Brodick, both offering good access to the trails.
Public Transport
Regular bus services operate from Brodick to various parts of the island, including routes to Glen Sannox.
Nearby Facilities
Brodick offers a range of facilities including cafes, restaurants, and public toilets.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Loose rocks, steep cliffs, and sudden weather changes can present risks for hikers. Always check forecasts and keep an eye on the conditions.
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 Goatfell [Goat Fell]?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Goatfell [Goat Fell] through the maps
Are there other walkers around Goatfell [Goat Fell]?
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 Goatfell [Goat Fell] search or of course create your own walk for Goatfell [Goat Fell]
Can I organise a walk to Goatfell [Goat Fell]?
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 Goatfell [Goat Fell].
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 Goatfell [Goat Fell]?
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 Goatfell [Goat Fell] 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
Community Discussion
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Location
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: NR991415
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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