Ben Arthur
Mountain Distinctive Scottish peak famed for rocky summit ridge
A sharp, pinnacled peak in the Arrochar Alps, Ben Arthur-“The Cobbler”-draws hillwalkers and scramblers for its ridges, summit pinnacles and views over Loch Lomond and surrounding glens.
Ben Arthur, commonly called The Cobbler, is a mountain in the Arrochar Alps of western Scotland notable for its distinctive craggy summit. It is a well-known hillwalking and scrambling objective in the region.
The summit has a characteristic profile formed by three rocks and offers extensive views across Loch Long, Loch Long’s headlands, and surrounding peaks; ascents typically include sections of easy rock scrambling near the top. Many walkers approach from the village of Arrochar and nearby car parks along Glencroe.
The mountain has long been part of local hillwalking traditions and is a frequent target for recreational climbers and hikers. Its rocky crown and routes have made it a classic short mountaineering objective in the Southern Highlands.
Ben Arthur lies on the west side of the Highlands near Loch Long and the village of Arrochar, within the council area of Argyll and Bute. The nearest sizeable urban centre is Glasgow to the south, reachable by road in under two hours.
- Local name: The mountain is locally known as The Cobbler because of its distinctive trio of rocky summits and crags that resemble a cobbler at work.
- Route notes: Popular ascent routes start from the village of Arrochar and involve scrambling on exposed rock near the summit, so suitable footwear and sure-footedness are required.
How to Get to Ben Arthur #
Common approaches start from the A817 or nearby Loch Long car parks; the main trailheads are accessed from the western side near Arrochar. The West Highland Line’s Arrochar & Tarbet station is the nearest rail link; a short taxi or 30-45 minute walk brings visitors to the trailheads.
Tips for Visiting Ben Arthur #
- The classic route starts from the Loch Lomond & Trossachs area-use the car park at the Allt a' Bhealaidh side and follow Inveruglas/Arranmore access tracks depending on approach.
- Stretches of path are steep, narrow and require scrambling; be confident with exposure and route-finding on wet rock.
- Avoid winter attempts without winter mountaineering experience due to avalanche and cornice risk; in snow conditions, use crampons and ice axe.
Best Time to Visit Ben Arthur #
Summer months are best for non-technical ascents; winter requires full alpine kit and experience.
Weather & Climate near Ben Arthur #
Ben Arthur's climate is classified as Subpolar Oceanic - Subpolar Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -1°C to 14°C. Heavy rainfall (2781 mm/year), wettest in January.
January
January is cold with highs of 3°C and lows of -1°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (348 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 3°C and lows of -1°C. Heavy rain (226 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Heavy rain (260 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (150 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (144 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (137 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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July
July is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (155 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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August
August is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (184 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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September
September is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 6°C. Heavy rain (258 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 4°C. Heavy rain (301 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 1°C. Heavy rain (303 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 3°C and lows of -1°C. Heavy rain (315 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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