Ben Buck

Ben Buck isn't particularly high - barely 1,000 feet - but it's got character in spades from the Clackmannan side of Stirling. You're looking at a straightforward walk that takes the best part of an hour to reach the summit, with the real reward being views across the Forth Valley that stretch proper far on a clear day.

The path itself is well-trodden but nothing fancy. It's the sort of walk that suits families who want an actual peak bagged without needing all day or specialist kit. Kids will manage it fine if they're used to hillwalking, though younger ones might grumble about the last stretch. The descent can feel steeper on tired legs than the climb up.

What makes this worthwhile isn't the height - it's that you're never crowded. Come on a weekday and you might have the place to yourself, which beats the madness of Ben Lomond or anything near Loch Katrine. Spring and autumn work best; summer can be midgy, and winter needs proper planning if there's ice about.

Stirling's the obvious base, though Clackmannan town itself is closer and quieter. If you're planning a week around the area, Witches Craig Caravan & Camping Park sits just 5.5 miles away with decent reviews - decent enough to make it a proper staging post. Pair Ben Buck with walks around Stirling's lower hills or a day at Loch Lomond for a proper fortnight.