Scottish

Towns

Den of Alyth

Length: 2.5 miles Height climbed: Negligible Grade: C Parking: Market Square, Alyth & The Den Toilet facilities: Alyth The nature of woodland - mainly oak and ash, with interspersed hazel and wych elm - provides a habitat for a large number of the smaller woodland birds, whilst there are dippers and grey wagtails by the water side. Watch too for red squirrels and a wide variety of woodland flowers along this pleasing route. This is a pleasant walk through the deep-set glen of the Alyth Burn in mixed woodland, notable for being naturally seeded and directly descended from the original deciduous woodland which once covered all of lowland Scotland. The walk starts on the west side Market Square, leading out of the square up Bamff Road and crossing Alyth Burn. Stay on this road as it curves to the left, past a large sawmill where you turn left through the gates of the Den of Alyth. Here you will find a picnic area and climbing fort for children. (The word Den is from the Scots dialect signifying a wooded glen). The path then runs along side the burn which cuts into the Old Red Sandstone of the district - on the far side of the burn there is a steep cliff face suggesting that the near side of the glen may have subsided at some stage. Continue up the glen (there are numerous paths to follow) until you reach a minor road which crosses the burn. The continues a little further up the glen from the far side of the road. To return to Alyth, either retrace your steps down the den, or follow the minor road back along the edge of the wood to form a circular route. NB. The route may be extended by a stroll around the old streets of the town itself and taking in a visit to the Folk Museum.

© The Perfect Solution Last updated November 1999