Alva City Guide

About Alva – History and Culture

Alva lies in the shadow of the Ochil Hills in Clackmannanshire, once a powerhouse of Scotland’s textile industry. The town’s origins stretch back to medieval times, but its rapid growth came in the 18th and 19th centuries when water-powered mills harnessed the fast-flowing Alva Burn. Wool and tartan production dominated, bringing wealth and a distinctive industrial heritage. The mill workers’ cottages and grand mill owners’ villas still line the streets, telling a story of social contrast.

The decline of textiles in the 20th century reshaped Alva into a commuter town and a gateway for outdoor recreation. Despite industrial change, the community retains a strong sense of identity. Local festivals, sports clubs, and the annual Highland Games keep traditions alive. The Alva Glen, once a source of water power, is now a tranquil nature reserve enjoyed by walkers and families.

Today, Alva blends its historical roots with modern life. It offers a peaceful, scenic environment while being within easy reach of Stirling, Alloa, and the central belt. The culture is welcoming, with a focus on community events, outdoor pursuits, and preserving local heritage. Visitors can explore old mill buildings, the Alva House estate, and the surrounding hills that have shaped the town’s character for centuries.

• Alva’s textile mills were among the largest in Scotland in the 1800s.
• The Alva House was built in 1784 for the mill-owning Johnstone family.
• St. Serf’s Church (now ruined) dates back to the 12th century.
• Alva Glen features a natural arch known as the 'Lion’s Face'.
• The town has a war memorial in the centre dedicated to WWI and WWII.
• Alva once had a distillery (Alva Distillery) producing whisky until the 1920s.
• The Alva Academy (secondary school) serves the Hillfoots area.
• Local heritage walks are organised by the Clackmannanshire Heritage Trust.

Did You Know? – Facts about Alva

Alva may be small, but it punches above its weight in Scottish history. It was part of the 'Hillfoots' industrial corridor that once made Clackmannanshire the most densely industrialised county in Scotland. The town’s mills produced tartan for the British army and were a major employer. Today, Alva is a haven for walkers and climbers, with the Ochil Hills rising steeply behind the Main Street.

The community is tight-knit, with many families having lived there for generations. Alva boasts a surprising number of listed buildings relative to its size, reflecting its prosperous past. The town also has a strong sporting tradition, especially in football (Alva Albion) and hill running. Its location makes it a perfect base for exploring the Wallace Monument, Stirling Castle, and the Trossachs.

• Alva is one of the 'Hillfoots Villages' – Menstrie, Alva, Tillicoultry, and Dollar.
• The Alva Glen walk includes a series of waterfalls and a karst cave.
• Alva's population increased by 10% between 2001 and 2011.
• The town has its own pipe band – the Alva & District Pipe Band.
• Alva once had a railway station on the Stirling and Dunfermline Railway (closed 1968).
• The local hospital, Clackmannanshire Community Healthcare Centre, is in Sauchie.
• Alva is twinned with Vimoutiers in Normandy, France.
• The Ochil Fault, a geological feature, runs near Alva.
• Alva has a community council that actively manages local issues.
• The town hosts a Christmas lights switch-on and a summer gala.
• Alva’s library is located in the former Alva Town Hall.
• The Alva Silver Band was formed in 1886.

Geography and Climate of Alva

Alva sits in the narrow strip of lowland between the Ochil Hills and the River Forth. The town is oriented along the A91, with the Main Street running parallel to the Alva Burn. The hills rise steeply to the north, reaching 721 metres at Ben Cleuch, the highest point in the Ochils. To the south lies the flat Carse of Stirling, a fertile agricultural plain. This geography gives Alva a dramatic backdrop and a climate influenced by both lowland and upland patterns.

The climate is temperate maritime, with cool summers and mild winters, though the hills can bring more rain and snow. Average temperatures range from 3°C in January to 16°C in July. Rainfall is moderate but higher on the hills. The town is sheltered by the hills, but can be windy. The best months for outdoor activities are May to September. Alva’s landscape offers a mix of wooded glens, open moorland, and productive farmland.

• Alva is located at 56.18°N, 3.80°W.
• The town is approximately 10 miles northeast of Stirling.
• Nearest major river: River Devon, a tributary of the Forth.
• The Alva Burn flows through the heart of the town.
• Ben Cleuch (721 m) is the highest point in the Ochils.
• Climate zone: Oceanic (Cfb) with no dry season.
• Average annual rainfall: around 850 mm.
• Snowfall can occur from November to March at higher elevations.
• The Ochil Hills are part of the Ochil Fault scarp.
• Geology: Carboniferous sedimentary rocks with igneous intrusions.

Things to Do in Alva

Visitors to Alva find a wealth of activities centred on nature, heritage, and community life. The town is a base for exploring the Ochil Hills, with numerous walking and cycling routes. The Alva Glen is a must-see, offering an easy trail to dramatic waterfalls and rock formations. History enthusiasts can explore the remnants of the textile industry, visit local churches, and learn about the area’s past at the Clackmannanshire Museum in Alloa. The Alva Highland Games in July provide a vibrant taste of Scottish culture.

Food & Dining

Alva’s dining scene is modest but genuine, featuring traditional Scottish pub food, family-run cafes, and takeaways. The Main Street has several options: The Crown Inn offers classic pub meals with local ales, while the Alva Cafe serves home baking and light lunches. For a special meal, the nearby town of Dollar or the Harviestoun Brewery in neighbouring Dollar offers a restaurant. The area is known for its soft water, which makes for excellent whisky and beer – visit the local pubs for a dram.

• Try a meal at The Crown Inn – traditional pub fare.
• Stop at Alva Cafe for homemade soup and cakes.
• Flatbreads and pizza at Scotts (takeaway).
• Fish and chips from the Alva Fish Bar.
• Afternoon tea at the Coach House in Dollar.
• Sample Harviestoun Brewery ales – near Dollar.
• Sunday roast at the King’s Inn, Tillicoultry.
• Local bakeries for morning rolls and pies.
• Berry picking at local fruit farms in summer.

Festivals & Events

Alva comes alive in July with its Highland Games, a highlight featuring heavy athletics, piping, dancing, and a fun fair. The Alva Gala Week in June includes a parade, sports, and community stalls. The town also participates in the Hillfoots Walking Festival, offering guided walks through the glens. Christmas events include a lights switch-on and carol singing. Throughout the year, the community centre hosts markets, ceilidhs, and club events.

• Alva Highland Games (mid-July).
• Alva Gala Week (June).
• Hillfoots Walking Festival (usually September).
• Clackmannanshire Doors Open Days (September).
• Christmas lights switch-on (early December).
• St. Andrew’s Night celebrations (30 November).
• Ceilidh nights at the community centre.
• Summer bowling club open days.
• Local farmer’s markets in Alloa.

Cultural Attractions

While small, Alva has cultural sights. The Alva House is a Georgian mansion with a coffee shop and business hub, sometimes hosting art exhibitions. The Old Parish Church on the Main Street has stained glass and a historic graveyard. The Alva Glen has interpretation panels about the textile mills. The Clackmannanshire Museum in Alloa (4 miles) covers local history extensively. Also worth a visit is the nearby Dollar Glen and Castle Campbell.

• Alva House – visitor centre and cafe.
• Alva Parish Church – active church with historic fixtures.
• Alva Glen Heritage Walk – outdoor museum.
• Clackmannanshire Museum, Alloa.
• Castle Campbell, Dollar (15-minute drive).
• Menstrie Castle – William Alexander’s birthplace.
• Wallace Monument (20-minute drive).
• Stirling Castle (25-minute drive).

Outdoor Activities

The Ochil Hills are the main draw. The Alva Glen walk is a short, steep trail to the 'Lion’s Face' rock formation and a series of waterfalls. For serious hikers, the climb to Ben Cleuch starts from the Alva car park. The Hillfoots Path is a long-distance trail connecting the villages. Mountain biking is popular on fire roads and single tracks. Fishing in the River Devon and local lochs is possible with permits. Golfers can head to Tillicoultry Golf Club or Dollar.

• Alva Glen circular walk (approx. 2.5 miles).
• Ben Cleuch hike (full day, 8 miles return).
• Hillfoots Path – 12 miles from Menstrie to Dollar.
• Mountain biking in the Ochil Hills (fire roads).
• Fishing on the River Devon (permit required).
• Horse riding at local stables.
• Climbing at Dumyat or Craig Leith.
• Running – the Ochil 2000 foot race.
• Orienteering events in the hills.
• Birdwatching in the glens (red kites, peregrines).

Economy and Key Industries

Historically a textile centre, Alva’s economy now relies on a mix of services, small manufacturing, and tourism. Commuting to Stirling, Alloa, and Glasgow is common. The Alva Industrial Estate houses small businesses, including engineering, distribution, and construction. The town has a Morrisons supermarket that provides local jobs. Tourism is growing, with walkers, cyclists, and history visitors supporting cafes, B&Bs, and pubs.

Clackmannanshire as a whole has a diverse economy with retail, public administration, and logistics. The nearby town of Alloa is a commercial hub. Alva also benefits from the proximity of the University of Stirling and Forth Valley College, which provide jobs and services. Agriculture remains important in the surrounding farmland, with livestock and arable farming.

• Textile heritage – now small-scale weaving and crafts.
• Retail: Morrisons, Co-op, independent shops.
• Construction and trades – local builders.
• Engineering and fabrication companies.
• Logistics and warehousing on industrial estate.
• Tourism – accommodation, food, guiding.
• Public sector: schools, council offices, health centre.
• Healthcare – Clackmannanshire Community Hospital.
• Agriculture – sheep, cattle, and grain.
• Renewable energy – wind farms in Ochils.

Where to Live in Alva

Alva is a residential town with a range of housing. The older part of town near the Main Street features traditional stone-built cottages, many converted from mill workers’ homes. These are often small but characterful. The newer estates, like the developments on the southern edge, have modern family houses with gardens. Upper Alva, on the hill slopes, offers larger houses with stunning views. Renting is limited but available; most properties are owner-occupied. Neighbourhoods are safe and community-oriented.

• Main Street area – historic cottages, close to amenities.
• Alva Hill (Upper Alva) – bungalows and detached homes with views.
• Tillicoultry Road – semi-detached and terraced houses.
• New development at Westend Park – modern families.
• Mid Alva – mix of flats and houses.
• Brookfield area – quiet residential streets.
• Alva Park – near primary school.
• Commuter belt – popular for Stirling and Glasgow workers.
• Rural outskirts – farmhouses and smallholdings.

Formalities and Visas in Alva

Alva is in the United Kingdom, so standard UK visa rules apply. Non-UK nationals need a valid visa to enter, work, or study. Tourist visas allow stays up to 6 months. For longer stays, work visas (Skilled Worker, Health and Care Visa) or family visas are required. The local area has no specific immigration office; applications are processed online and via UKVI. EU citizens need to demonstrate settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. All visitors should have valid travel insurance.

• Tourists from many countries (e.g., US, Canada, Australia) can visit without a visa for up to 6 months.
• Non-visa nationals must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) from 2025.
• Work visas require sponsorship from a UK employer.
• Student visas for courses longer than 6 months.
• Health surcharge payable with visa applications.
• Biometric residence permits (BRPs) for long-term visas.
• No local visa office; use UKVI online portal.
• EU Settlement Scheme deadline passed, but late applications may be accepted.
• Register with a GP upon arrival for health access.

Working in Alva

Employment in Alva is diverse, with opportunities in retail, healthcare, education, and trades. Many residents commute to Stirling, Alloa, or further to Glasgow and Edinburgh. The local job market is competitive, but there is demand for skilled trades, care workers, and retail staff. Remote work is growing, especially for those in digital roles. The minimum wage (National Living Wage) applies. The working culture is professional but friendly, with standard UK employment rights.

• Major local employers: Morrisons, NHS Forth Valley, Clackmannanshire Council.
• Retail and hospitality – pubs, cafes, shops.
• Construction and skilled trades always needed.
• Care work: Northcare (Care Home) is a major employer.
• Teaching and support in local schools.
• Manufacturing and engineering – small firms.
• Remote work possible – good broadband.
• Seasonal jobs in tourism and farming.
• Self-employment – many tradespeople and consultants.
• Average full-time salary in Clackmannanshire: around £30,000.

Studying in Alva

Alva itself has a primary school and a secondary school (Alva Academy). For further education, students travel to Forth Valley College (Stirling and Alloa campuses) or the University of Stirling. The schools are well-regarded. Alva Academy serves the Hillfoots and offers a broad curriculum. For younger children, there are nurseries. The local education system follows the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence. International students can attend university in Stirling, which is 15 minutes away by car.

• Alva Primary School – age 5-11.
• Alva Academy – age 11-18.
• Forth Valley College – vocational courses in Alloa (6 miles).
• University of Stirling – undergraduate and postgraduate (10 miles).
• University of the West of Scotland – Paisley campus.
• Student accommodation is available in Stirling.
• Schools are rated 'Good' by Care Inspectorate.
• Additional support for learning available.
• Library services for homework and research.
• After-school clubs and sports.
• Adult education classes at the local community centre.

Finance and Banks in Alva

Alva has a branch of Bank of Scotland on the Main Street, plus a Post Office with banking services. Other major banks are in Alloa or Stirling. Most transactions are digital; contactless payments widely accepted. ATMs are available at the Co-op and Morrisons. International transfers can be done through UK banks or services like Wise. Account opening requires proof of address and ID. For mortgages, local brokers can assist.

• Bank of Scotland – Alva branch (limited hours).
• Post Office – basic banking, currency exchange.
• ATMs at Co-op, Morrisons, and Main Street.
• Online banking with all major UK banks.
• Building societies: Nationwide (Alloa).
• Credit unions: Clackmannanshire Credit Union.
• Tax: Pay As You Earn (PAYE) for employees.
• Self-assessment for self-employed.
• Local financial advisors available.

Health Care in Alva

Alva is served by the Alva Medical Practice, a GP surgery on the Main Street. The nearest hospital with A&E is Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert (20 minutes). The Clackmannanshire Community Healthcare Centre in Sauchie provides outpatient and minor injury services. NHS care is free for UK residents; international visitors should have health insurance. Pharmacies are available in Alva (Boots, Lloyds). Dental and optician services are in Alloa.

• Alva Medical Practice – register as a patient.
• Alva Pharmacy – for prescriptions and advice.
• Alloa Health Centre – additional GP services.
• Clackmannanshire Community Hospital – minor injuries, X-ray.
• Forth Valley Royal Hospital – A&E and major care.
• Out-of-hours GP: NHS24 (dial 111).
• Dentists: Alloa Dental Care, others.
• Opticians: Specsavers in Alloa.
• Mental health support via Breathing Space and local services.
• Maternity care at Forth Valley Royal.

Accommodation in Alva

Accommodation ranges from traditional cottages to modern houses and flats. Rental properties are scarce but can be found via letting agents. Buying a home is common, with average prices around £150,000. The town also has guest houses and B&Bs for short stays. There are no large hotels, but The Woodside Hotel in Tillicoultry and The Crown Inn offer rooms. For self-catering, holiday cottages are available in the area.

• Rental prices: 1-bed flat approx £400-500 pcm; house £600-800 pcm.
• Buying: terraced houses from £100k; detached from £200k.
• Letting agents: Findlay & Co., Countrywide (Alloa).
• Short stays: The Crown Inn (2 rooms), local B&Bs.
• Self-catering: Ochil View holiday cottages.
• Homestays and lodges in neighbouring Tillicoultry.

Planning Your Move to Alva

Moving to Alva requires organising accommodation, registration with GP, bank account, and council tax. Transport links are good; Stirling is a key connection. It’s advisable to visit first to explore neighbourhoods. Utility providers include Scottish Power, SSE, and BT. Internet is widely available. The local council is Clackmannanshire Council. Register for electoral roll. Pet import rules apply for international moves.

• Find rental property before arriving.
• Register with GP as soon as you have an address.
• Open a bank account with proof of address.
• Set up council tax direct debit.
• Utilities: gas, electric, water (Scottish Water).
• Broadband: check coverage (fibre available).
• Register with DVLA for driving licence change.
• Notify HMRC for tax status (if moving from abroad).
• School registration for children.
• Pet travel: need passport and vaccinations.
• Window of best weather: late spring to early autumn.

Leisure in Alva

Leisure in Alva revolves around outdoor pursuits and community clubs. The Alva Swans Football Club is active, and the bowling club offers social play. The local pub, The Crown, is a hub for gatherings. There are also walking groups, a gardening club, and the community centre hosts bingo and classes. Shopping is limited to essentials; for major shopping, Stirling is close. The Menstrie Sports Centre has fitness facilities.

• The Crown Inn – live music and pub quizzes.
• Alva Bowling Club – green open to visitors.
• Alva Community Centre – fitness classes, events.
• Menstrie Sports Centre – gym and pool (3 miles).
• Hillwalking Clubs: Ochil Mountaineering Club.
• Fishing permits at local tackle shops.
• Cycling routes on quiet roads.
• Stirling – better shopping and nightlife.
• Alloa – cinema (Multiplex).

Transportation Options in Alva

Alva is primarily car-dependent, but has bus services connecting to Stirling, Alloa, and the Hillfoots. The A91 runs through the town. Train: Alva station is closed; the nearest station is Alloa (4.5 miles) with services to Stirling, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. Bike routes exist but are not extensive. Taxis are available. Glasgow Airport is about 45 minutes by car; Edinburgh Airport 50 minutes. Public transport is adequate but not frequent.

• Bus services: Stagecoach lines 23, 52, 52A to Stirling and Alloa.
• Train: Alloa station (15 min bus) to Glasgow/Edinburgh via Stirling.
• Car: A91 to M9 (Stirling) / M90 (Edinburgh).
• Bicycle: on-road; some shared paths.
• Taxi: local firms like Hillfoots Taxis.
• Air: Edinburgh (EDI) and Glasgow (GLA) airports.
• Walk: compact town centre.
• Parking: free on-street and small car parks.

Everyday Life in Alva

Life in Alva is quiet and neighbourly. The community is strong, with volunteers running many events. Shops are limited but include a Co-op and Morrisons. Post office is on Main Street. The town is safe with low crime. Children walk to school. There is a strong sense of connection to the hills – many residents walk daily. The pace is slower than big cities. Broadband is good, supporting remote work. Sunday is quieter with most shops open limited hours.

• Crime rate low – very safe.
• Morrisons open 7am-10pm; Co-op 7am-11pm.
• Post office open Mon-Sat mornings.
• Library hours limited (Mon, Wed, Fri).
• Mobile reception good on main networks.
• Broadband speeds up to 1Gbps in some areas.
• Community spirit evident in volunteering.
• Churches active – Church of Scotland, Baptist.
• Takeaways available evenings.
• Schools operate 9am-3.15pm.

Cost of Living in Alva

The cost of living in Alva is lower than the UK average, particularly for housing. Rents are affordable compared to Edinburgh or Glasgow. Groceries and utilities are average. Council tax is in Band A-E at moderate rates. Transport costs are necessary due to limited public transport; car ownership is common. Dining out is moderately priced. Overall, a comfortable lifestyle is achievable on a median salary.

• Property prices: median £150k (much lower than national average).
• Rent: 1-bed flat around £450 pcm.
• Council tax: Band D approx £1,200 per year.
• Utilities: gas/electric average £150-200 pcm.
• Groceries: typical weekly shop £50-80.
• Petrol prices generally higher than central belt.
• Bus fares: about £3-5 to Stirling.
• Dining: pub meal £12-15.
• Childcare: nursery rates about £5-6 per hour.

Places to Visit in Alva

Alva itself has the magnificent Alva Glen, with its cascades and the famous 'Lion's Face' rock formation – a natural arch shaped like a lion. The walk is family-friendly and offers stunning views. The Alva House grounds are a pleasant short walk. Within the town, the Main Street retains historic character with its old bank buildings and traditional pubs. The Old Kirk of Alva, though ruined, offers a glimpse of the area’s early Christian history. For a panoramic view, walk up the hill to the Alva War Memorial.

Beyond the town, the Hillfoots villages each have their own charm. Tillicoultry has a larger glen and a historic mill. Dollar is home to Castle Campbell, a 15th-century castle with gardens. Menstrie Castle is the birthplace of Sir William Alexander, colonial pioneer. The Ochil Hills provide endless hiking trails, and the Woodland Trust's Gartmorn Dam Park is a serene spot for walking and birdwatching.

For culture and history, the Clackmannanshire Museum in Alloa tells the story of the county’s industrial past. Stirling is a short drive away, with its world-famous castle, the Wallace Monument, and the Old Town. The Trossachs National Park begins just west of Callander, offering lochs and mountains. Alva’s location makes it an excellent base for day trips to many of Scotland’s top attractions.

Local foodies can enjoy the Harviestoun Brewery in Dollar, produce fresh ales, and the nearby villages have farm shops and cafes. In autumn, the hills are ablaze with colour. In winter, snow often caps the Ochils, creating dramatic scenery. Every season offers something unique, making Alva a delightful place to explore repeatedly.

• Alva Glen – waterfalls, Lion’s Face, easy walk.
• Alva House – Georgian mansion and cafe.
• Hillfoots Path – walking route from Menstrie to Dollar.
• Castle Campbell – historic tower and gardens in Dollar.
• Menstrie Castle – William Alexander heritage.
• Dollar Glen – woodland walk with waterfalls.
• Ben Cleuch – highest Ochil peak, challenging hike.
• Gartmorn Dam Country Park – nature reserve.
• Clackmannanshire Museum (Alloa) – local history.
• Alloa Tower – medieval keep.
• Stirling Castle – royal fortress.
• Wallace Monument – iconic tower.
• Bannockburn Heritage Centre – battle site.
• Blair Drummond Safari Park – family day out.
• Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park – scenic drives.

News & Testimonies

Recent news in Alva includes community efforts to renovate the Alva Glen paths, supported by the local authority. The Alva Highland Games continue to grow, drawing crowds from across Scotland. There have been local campaigns for better public transport to Stirling. The town has also seen interest from new families moving from cities seeking a quieter life. Testimonies from residents highlight the friendly atmosphere and the beauty of the Ochil Hills. Many appreciate the strong community spirit and the safety.

• “Walking the Alva Glen every weekend is a joy – it’s like our backyard.” – Sarah, resident for 10 years.
• “The community here is so welcoming; we knew our neighbours within a week.” – Mark, recent mover from Glasgow.
• “The Highland Games is the highlight of our summer.” – David, local volunteer.
• “We moved here for the schools and the outdoors – best decision ever.” – Louise, parent.
• “I wish there were better train services, but the buses are okay.” – Ian, commuter to Edinburgh.

Forum Topics on Living in Alva

Online forums about living in Alva frequently discuss the best walks, tips for commuting, and local amenities. New residents often ask about GP registration, broadband speeds, and plumbers. Topics include the pros and cons of living in a small town, school catchment areas, and the availability of childcare. The community is active on Facebook groups like “Alva & District Noticeboard” where locals share news and recommendations. Common questions: “Is Alva family-friendly?”, “What is the best way to get to Glasgow?”, and “Are there good job opportunities locally?”

• Best trails for dog walkers?
• Planning a move from England – advice needed.
• GPs accepting new patients?
• Fibre broadband options.
• Local tradesmen recommendations.
• School catchment for Alva Academy.
• Nearest hospital and health services.
• Public transport to Stirling – frequency and reliability.
• Property prices: good value?
• Community groups and clubs for seniors.

Life in Alva Summary

Alva offers a high quality of life for those who appreciate nature, community, and a slower pace. The stunning Ochil Hills backdrop provides endless opportunities for walking and outdoor sports. The town is safe, friendly, and has good local amenities. Housing is affordable compared to nearby cities. On the downside, public transport is limited, and job diversity is not as high as in larger urban centres. Those reliant on trains may find the lack of a station inconvenient. But for families, retirees, and remote workers, Alva is an ideal base with easy access to Stirling and beyond.

• Pros: beautiful scenery, low crime, community spirit, affordable housing, good schools.
• Cons: limited public transport, few nightlife options, need a car for convenience.
• Ideal for: outdoor enthusiasts, families, remote workers, retirees.
• Not ideal for: those seeking vibrant city life, frequent train travellers.
• Overall: a hidden gem in central Scotland with a warm welcome.

Important Places and Distances from Alva

The centre of Alva is the Main Street, where you find shops, pubs, and the bus stops. The Alva Glen car park is at the northern end of the street. Key distances: Alloa is 4.5 miles (7 km) south; Stirling is 10 miles (16 km) southwest; Glasgow is 35 miles (56 km) via M80; Edinburgh is 42 miles (68 km) via M9. The nearest airport is Edinburgh (EDI) at 40 miles (64 km). The nearest hospital with A&E is Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert, 14 miles (22 km).

• Main Street, Alva – town centre.
• Alva Glen car park – start of walk.
• Alloa town centre – 4.5 miles (7 km).
• Stirling city centre – 10 miles (16 km).
• Glasgow city centre – 35 miles (56 km).
• Edinburgh city centre – 42 miles (68 km).
• Edinburgh Airport – 40 miles (64 km).
• Glasgow Airport – 38 miles (61 km).
• Forth Valley Royal Hospital (Larbert) – 14 miles (22 km).
• University of Stirling – 9 miles (14 km).
• Wallace Monument – 12 miles (19 km).
• Castle Campbell – 4 miles (6.5 km) in Dollar.

Nearby Locations and Cities

Alva is part of the Hillfoots group, which includes Menstrie, Alva, Tillicoultry, and Dollar. Each has its own character: Menstrie, with its castle and access to Dumyat; Tillicoultry, home to the famous Tillicoultry Glen and a large retail park; Dollar, a charming village with Castle Campbell and good schools. Further afield, Alloa is the county town with shopping, railway, and the Alloa Tower. Stirling is a historic city with a castle, university, and vibrant cultural scene. The Trossachs National Park starts near