Discover Alva

Alva offers several starting points for planning a trip: the landscape of Alva Glen, the history of the former Alva House, and Johnstone & Cochrane Parks. The Alva Games, an annual event held in July, provide another reason to visit. Depending on your interests, you can get to know Alva through its nature, local history, or leisure and sporting activities.

Landscape and traces of the estate

Alva Glen lies above the town of Alva, at the foot of the Ochil Hills. Its slopes feature old terraces known locally as “The Delvins”. This name refers to a specific landscape feature and adds a historical dimension to the natural setting.

Wood Hill lies between Alva and Tillicoultry. It is what remains of the grounds of the now-demolished Alva House. Information boards in Ochil Hills Woodland Park describe the former grandeur of the old estate. The two references highlight different aspects: Wood Hill represents what has been preserved, while the boards recall the estate as it once was.

Johnstone & Cochrane Parks: play and sport

Johnstone & Cochrane Parks are in the town of Alva, on the A91 between Stirling and St Andrews. Johnstone Park was gifted by James Johnstone in 1856. This gives the park a specific date in its history, while its current facilities offer a range of ways to spend time outdoors.

The parks have two play areas. One is creatively designed in a former boating pond. There are also picnic tables and football pitches, as well as a multi-use sports area and a recently installed outdoor gym. For families looking to include places to play in their plans, the two areas offer a useful point of reference. Football and other sports provide additional options, while the picnic tables offer a place to take a break.

The Alva Games in July

The Alva Games take place annually in July and have been held in Johnstone & Cochrane Parks for more than 160 years. The programme includes athletics, cycling, Highland dancing and heavyweight competitions. There are also four hill races over Torry. This mix brings together different sports and dance, making the Games a distinct event alongside the park facilities available throughout the year.

The Alva Games are the last remaining sporting and games events in Clackmannanshire. If they are a deciding factor in your trip, check the specific event date before making plans. The annual July timing offers a general timeframe, but does not specify the exact date.

Choose the right focus for your trip

When looking for a holiday rental in Alva, your preferred focus for the trip can help guide your choice. The landscape and the history of the former estate offer a different focus from the parks’ play and sports facilities. The Alva Games add a seasonal event in July. This keeps your choice aligned with your specific interests, rather than treating different outings and events as interchangeable.

Discover more destinations: Sauchie, Tillicoultry, Clackmannanshire, Dollar, Alloa.

Return to the main travel overview: Clackmannanshire.