The Donalds: Exploring the Hills of the Southern Uplands

Welcome back to our series on Scotland’s hill classifications! So far, we’ve covered the Munros, Corbetts, and Grahams—now we’re turning our attention to the Donalds, the hills of Scotland’s Southern Uplands. While often overshadowed by their taller Highland counterparts, the Donalds offer their own unique challenges, stunning scenery, and fantastic walking routes.

What Is a Donald?

A Donald is a hill in the Southern Uplands of Scotland that stands at 2,000 feet (610m) or higher, with a drop of at least 30 meters (98 feet) on all sides. However, unlike Munros or Corbetts, Donalds are classified using a more complex formula that takes into account prominence and separation.

The list was first compiled by Percy Donald in 1935, and today it includes 89 Donalds, along with 51 subsidiary tops, bringing the total number of summits to 140. These hills are spread across Dumfries and Galloway, the Scottish Borders, and South Lanarkshire, offering a range of scenic and challenging routes.

Why Climb the Donalds?

While Donalds may not have the height or dramatic ridges of Highland peaks, they offer plenty of reasons to explore:

• Big Sky Walking – The Southern Uplands are known for their vast open landscapes and rolling ridges that offer breathtaking panoramic views.

• Less Crowded Trails – Many Donalds see fewer walkers than Munros or Corbetts, making them ideal for a quieter, more secluded adventure.

• Varied Terrain – From gentle grassy slopes to rugged escarpments and steep climbs, Donalds provide diverse walking experiences.

• Perfect for All Abilities – Many Donalds are more accessible than Munros, making them ideal for beginners, yet they still offer exciting challenges for experienced walkers.

• Great for Winter Walking – Their lower height means less risk of extreme winter conditions, making them a fantastic choice for shorter daylight months.

Notable Donalds

Your Next Donald

Looking for a great Donald to climb? Here are some of the most notable ones:

• Merrick (843m) – The highest Donald and a fantastic viewpoint over Loch Trool in Galloway.

• Broad Law (840m) – The tallest hill in the Scottish Borders, offering sweeping views across the Tweed Valley.

• White Coomb (821m) – A dramatic summit in Moffatdale, known for its wild terrain and steep climbs.

• Tinto (711m) – One of the most popular Donalds, with easy access and incredible views over Lanarkshire.

Preparing for a Donald Adventure

• Navigation Is Essential – Many Donalds have faint or no paths, making a map and compass crucial for safe navigation.

• Watch for Boggy Ground – The Southern Uplands are known for their peat hags and wet terrain, especially after heavy rain.

• Be Prepared for Wind – The rolling ridges of the Donalds are often exposed to strong winds, so layering up is key.

• Check Route Length – Some Donald walks involve multiple peaks in one day, so plan accordingly for a full-day adventure.

Let Us Guide Your Donald Experience!

At Braw Mountain Company, we offer:

• Guided Donald Walks – Explore the best peaks of the Southern Uplands with expert guidance.

• Navigation & Hill Skills Training – Build confidence in route-finding and mountain safety.

• Bespoke Adventures – Whether you want a single-day summit or a multi-day Donald challenge, we can tailor an experience for you.

Get in touch to book your next Donald adventure!