Sput Beag

Sput Beag stands beside Stirling in the foothills of the Ochil Hills. It is a small waterfall reached by a path that follows the burn through mixed woodland. The burn carries water from springs on the hills above and plunges over a short lip of rock. The name comes from the Scots word ‘spout’, used for falls where water is forced through a narrow channel. Nearby the land is farmed and the hills rise steeply to the north. The fall is modest in height but clear and lively after rain. It is one of many such burns in southern Scotland that carry water from the hills to the River Forth. The burn’s course is marked on Ordnance Survey maps and the path is kept open by local walkers. The name appears in local records and is recognised by hill-goers who pass by on their way to the higher Ochils. Visitors find a quiet spot beside the burn where the water rushes over the rock lip. The path is wide enough for two walkers and the woodland around is mixed with oak and birch. From the fall a short climb leads to open hillside with wide views over the Carse of Stirling. The burn continues down to the river, joining it near the old bridge that gives Stirling its name.