The Grahams(Fionas): Scotland’s 2,000–2,500ft Hills

Dean McNaught
Mar 6
3 min read

Welcome back to our series on Scotland’s hill classifications! So far, we’ve covered the Munros (Scotland’s highest peaks) and the Corbetts (a fantastic middle-ground challenge). Now, we’re moving on to the Grahams, Scotland’s 2,000–2,500ft hills, which offer some of the best wild and remote adventures in the country.

What Is a Graham?

A Graham is a hill in Scotland that stands between 2,000 and 2,500 feet (610–762 meters), with a drop of at least 150 meters (492 feet) on all sides. This prominence rule ensures that each Graham is an independent summit, not just a subsidiary top of a larger hill.

The list was first compiled by Fiona Torbet (née Graham) in 1992, and it has since undergone revisions, with the most up-to-date version listing 231 Grahams. These hills are spread across the Highlands, Southern Uplands, and Islands, offering incredible variety and adventure.

Grahams or Fionas?

In recent years, some hillwalkers and organizations have begun referring to Grahams as Fionas, in honor of their original compiler, Fiona Torbet. This renaming reflects the growing recognition of her work in classifying Scotland’s smaller peaks. While "Grahams" remains the more widely used term, you may hear both names used interchangeably in hillwalking circles. No matter what you call them, these hills offer spectacular adventures!

Why Climb Grahams?

While Munros and Corbetts often steal the spotlight, Grahams have a lot to offer:

True Solitude – Grahams are rarely busy, meaning you can often have an entire hill to yourself.
Varied Landscapes – From rolling moorland to rugged, rocky peaks, Grahams offer diverse walking experiences.
A Different Kind of Challenge – Many Grahams involve long approaches, rough terrain, and tricky navigation, making them just as rewarding as their taller counterparts.
An Accessible Goal – For those looking for a more manageable hillwalking challenge, completing all 231 Grahams is an achievable (yet still ambitious) adventure.
The Graham's can be great for starting to build your hill running.

Notable Grahams

Some Grahams stand out for their beauty, challenge, or sheer uniqueness. Here are a few worth adding to your list:

Suilven (731m) – A breathtakingly iconic mountain in Assynt with a dramatic ridge and incredible views.
Foinaven (911m, now a Corbett) – Previously a Graham, this striking ridge was reclassified after remeasurement, but it's still a must-visit.
Beinn a’ Chearcaill (725m) – A hidden gem in Torridon with lunar-like terrain and panoramic views.
Stob na Boine Druim-fhinn (721m) – A stunning peak in Argyll, offering spectacular views over Loch Fyne.

Preparing for a Graham Adventure

While Grahams are lower in height, they often present unique challenges:

Navigation is Essential – Many Grahams lack well-trodden paths, requiring strong map and compass skills.
Long and Remote Walk-Ins – Some Grahams involve longer approaches than Munros or Corbetts, with rough, boggy terrain.
Weather Can Be Deceptive – Despite their lower height, Grahams are still exposed to Scotland’s unpredictable weather. Always check MWIS or Met Office forecasts before heading out.
Respect the Terrain – Many Grahams are in fragile environments, so practicing Leave No Trace principles is essential.

Let Us Guide Your Graham Adventure!

Looking for a wild, off-the-beaten-path adventure? Whether you're new to hillwalking, keen to explore Scotland’s quieter landscapes, or looking to take on a guided Graham adventure, we’ve got you covered.

At Braw Mountain Company, we offer:

Guided Graham Hikes – Experience Scotland’s hidden gems with expert guidance.
Navigation & Mountain Skills Training – Gain the confidence to tackle remote, unmarked terrain.
Bespoke Adventures – Tailored adventures designed to suit your experience and goals.

Get in touch to book your next Graham adventure