Spout of Ballochleam

Spout of Ballochleam is a waterfall in the Stirling council area of central Scotland, tucked into the northern face of the Fintry Hills at the western end of the Campsie Fells. The Boquhan Burn tumbles down the scarp here, and the fall has become a favourite objective for walkers based around Kippen and Fintry. In March 2026 Scotways picked the route to it as its Heritage Path of the Month.

Where is Spout of Ballochleam?

The fall sits between the villages of Kippen and Fintry, on the hills above the Forth valley, at roughly 56.08° N, 4.17° W. It belongs to the Boquhan Burn rather than the Endrick Water, though the two streams run through the same area. Do not confuse it with the nearby Loup of Fintry, which is on the Endrick and has its own short approach.

How high is it?

The earliest description comes from the Ordnance Survey name books of 1858-61, which give about 90 feet (around 27 m) and call it the largest of several falls on the burn. That is a Victorian estimate, not a modern survey, so take it as a guide. The fall looks its best after rain, when the burn runs full.

How do you get there?

The classic approach starts at the Ballochleam road-end on Glinns Road. From there a farm track climbs beside the Boquhan Burn, through a gate and up the hillside. The spout only comes into view once you have gained most of the height, so keep going.

Longer options are described too:

• From Kippen: mostly off-road, adding about 4 km.
• Stronend loop: the Walkhighlands route climbs Stronend (512 m), then follows the edge round to the fall. Returning the way you came saves around 3 km.
• Through to Cringate: the old hill route ends in the Carron Valley, roughly 8 km from Ballochleam.

The access road is a narrow single-track lane with very few places to park. Arrive early and leave the car where it will not block passing traffic.

When should you go?

Pick a day after solid rainfall for the most water. The slope can be wet and muddy, so wear proper walking boots. Weather on the Campsie Fells changes quickly, so pack a waterproof layer. There are no visitor facilities on the route, and phone signal on the hills can be patchy.

What else is nearby?

The walk pairs well with an ascent of Stronend or a visit to Fintry, from where you can reach the Loup of Fintry (about 28.6 m in total height). The Fintry Hills offer open grassy ridges and views over the Forth valley.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee? No. It is a walk over open hill ground with no charge and no ticket office.

How long does the walk take? The direct climb from Ballochleam is the shortest option, while the full Stronend loop takes several hours. Plan your time around the variant you choose.

Is there parking? The approach road is narrow and spaces are scarce, so parking can be limited.

Can you see the waterfall from the start? No. It only opens up once you have climbed most of the way up the slope.