Samson’s Dog Park

The story goes that Samson, a local strongman, once threw his dog from the top of a hill near Clackmannan - hence the name. Whether that's true or just a yarn the locals enjoy spinning, the spot itself is worth a visit if you're staying nearby.

It's a modest open space with decent views across the Clackmannanshire landscape, the sort of place where you'd spend half an hour stretching your legs rather than planning an afternoon around. The walk up is straightforward enough, nothing that'll test you, though the ground can be boggy depending on recent weather.

Families with young kids might find it a bit thin on activities - there's no playground, no facilities, just open air and space to run about. Dog owners will appreciate the obvious irony of bringing their own dogs here. Walkers tackling longer routes through the Lowlands might use it as a waypoint rather than a destination in itself.

If you're based at Highland Gateway Glamping & Caravanning just down the road, it's genuinely convenient for a morning constitutional before breakfast or a sunset stroll. Free, naturally. No set hours either - it's just there. Allow twenty minutes to half an hour, or longer if you're a photography type waiting for the light to shift.

Honestly? It's fine as part of a broader park holiday in the area, but don't rearrange your schedule to visit it alone.