The Cobbler [Ben Arthur]

The Cobbler (Ben Arthur)

The Cobbler is a 886.7 m Corbett in the Arrochar Alps above Loch Long. Its central rock tor is the highest of three closely grouped peaks. The height and 260 m prominence follow the Database of British and Irish Hills, v18.6, whose record was revised on 28 December 2025. Older guides commonly give 884 m.

Decide where to stop

The usual hill path reaches the upper mountain, but the true Central Peak summit requires the exposed “thread the needle” scramble. This is a technical undertaking with serious fall consequences, including on the return. The plateau below the tor is a reasonable stopping point if the rock, weather or your skills make the summit inappropriate. The North Peak is a different, lower top with cliff edges. The South Peak is a rock-climbing objective. Walkhighlands explains the distinction.

Mountaineering Scotland’s scrambling guidance emphasises technical competence, route judgement and suitable training. A short route description cannot teach or safeguard the summit manoeuvre.

The usual approach

Start and return at Succoth car park, NN294048, beside the A83 near Arrochar. Cross the road carefully. The main path climbs forest zigzags, then follows the Allt a’ Bhalachain past the Narnain Boulders. The northern approach uses stone steps. Walkhighlands’ published circuit is 11 km, 4–6 hours and 920 m ascent, visiting the central summit area and North Peak, then returning down a rougher eastern corrie. Retracing the northern approach is the less rugged descent option, but those circuit figures are not a separate measurement of that variation.

Forestry and Land Scotland describes these as long, tough hillwalks. Combining The Cobbler with Beinn Narnain or Beinn Ime makes a bigger day and requires a separately planned itinerary. The Glen Croe and Arrochar approach notes below are incomplete planning pointers.

Terrain, conditions and preparation

Expect steep steps, rocky ground and exposed edges. Views include Loch Long, Ben Lomond and the surrounding Arrochar Alps when visibility permits. Snow and ice can demand winter mountaineering skills; see the National Park’s hill safety advice. Check a mountain forecast, carry suitable clothing and equipment, and leave room to turn back.

Arrochar Mountain Rescue recommends map-and-compass competence and warns against relying on mobile reception. In an emergency call 999, ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue.

Access and facilities

Parking charges apply at Succoth. Check signs and the National Park facilities page for current parking and toilet information. Arrochar has places to eat and shops. Glasgow coach services and Arrochar & Tarbet station provide public-transport options; allow for the additional approach and check your return journey.

Rock and history

The mountain consists of Dalradian metamorphic rocks of the Beinn Bheula Schist Formation. Its extraordinary outline reflects substantial rock-slope failure, described in the JNCC Geological Conservation Review. This geological history is not a forecast of present instability.

The name suggests a shoemaker bent over his last. The Scottish Place-Name Society notes that the alternative name Ben Arthur has uncertain provenance. The mountain’s crags and the Narnain Boulders also have an important place in the history of Glasgow climbing.

Content and source check: 15 October 2026 (UTC). Route notes are planning information; use a current map and a complete route description for navigation.