The best walks and hikes around Auchterhouse

A popular and highly-regarded starting point is the

Balkello Community Woodland Car Park. It provides excellent access to several trails heading into the Sidlaw Hills, including routes towards Balkello Hill and Craigowl Hill. Arrive early on weekends as it can get busy.

Yes, the Balkello Community Woodland and Dronley Community Woodland are great choices for families. They offer a variety of shorter, signposted trails on gentler terrain. For a specific route, the View from Auchterhouse Hill – View of Strathmore Valley loop from Balluderon Stone is a manageable 3.7-mile (6 km) walk with rewarding views that isn't overly strenuous.

Most trails in the Sidlaw Hills are suitable for dogs, but it's important to be mindful of the environment. The area is a mix of open moorland and farmland, so you will likely encounter livestock. Keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing season (spring) and near farm animals.

The terrain is varied. You'll find well-maintained paths in the community woodlands, but as you ascend into the Sidlaw Hills, expect open moorland, grassy tracks, and paths surrounded by heather. Some sections can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain, so sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are recommended.

Yes, many of the best routes are loops. A great moderate option is the View of Strathmore Valley loop from Kirkton of Auchterhouse. This 5-mile (8 km) circular trail offers a fantastic overview of the landscape without being too demanding.

The views are a major highlight. From the summits of hills like Auchterhouse Hill and Craigowl Hill, you can see panoramic vistas stretching across the Angus countryside, the Strathmore valley, the city of Dundee, and even out to the North Sea on a clear day.

There are nearly 20 hiking routes to explore around Auchterhouse on komoot. The selection ranges from moderate hill climbs in the Sidlaws to easier walks through local woodlands, offering something for most ability levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of over 4.3 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the hilltops and the well-marked paths in the community woodlands. The accessibility from Dundee is also a frequently mentioned benefit.

Yes, the region is rich in history. On the summit of Auchterhouse Hill, you can find the grassy remnants of an Iron Age hillfort. Another notable landmark is the 18th-century Kinpurney Tower, an old observatory, which is the destination of the Kinpurney Tower – View of Strathmore Valley loop.

Getting to the trailheads directly via public transport can be challenging as the area is quite rural. Bus services run to Auchterhouse village, but you may have a considerable walk to reach the main car parks like Balkello. Driving is the most convenient way to access the main hiking routes.

The hikes are dominated by the Sidlaw Hills. Key peaks include Auchterhouse Hill, the second-highest in the range, and the nearby Craigowl Hill. Balluderon Hill is another popular objective, often combined with other summits for a longer day out. Each offers fantastic views as a reward for the climb.