Finnich Glen
Finnich Glen is a short, steep gorge in Stirlingshire, about 70 feet deep, that runs east from Finnich Bridge on the A809. It was carved from red sandstone by the Carnock Burn. Inside the gorge you’ll find a circular rock called the Devil’s Pulpit and a steep stairway known as the Devil’s Steps, built around 1860.
The place became famous after it appeared as St Ninian’s Spring in the 2014 Outlander series, which has drawn many visitors—about 70,000 a year now. The crowds have caused problems: fences have been damaged, the old steps have been used unsafely, and mountain rescue teams have had to help people on several occasions. There are no parking facilities, so cars often park on the narrow country road, making it hard for locals and emergency crews to get through.
A plan to develop Finnich Glen as a tourist site was announced by landowner David Young. It would cost about £2 million and include a visitor centre and restaurant, toilets, a 150-car parking area, formal footpaths, viewing platforms, bridges over the gorge, and a new wooden and metal staircase. The plan still needs approval from the local council.
The Glen has also appeared as a filming location for The Nest.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 22:23 (CET).