The Devil's Pulpit
The Devil's Pulpit unique a mushroom shaped rock formation tucked away in Finnich Glen. This sandstone gorge has a deep red tint, especially after rain when the sediment gets stirred up. That rich red against the bright green moss covering the gorge walls is what makes this spot so photogenic. The gorge drops around 20m and narrows to just a few metres wide in places, so the walls frame your shots naturally and create a real sense of scale. Getting down requires descending Jacob's Ladder, a set of rough stone steps dating back to 1860 that are steep, uneven, and slippery when wet. It is a proper scramble, not a casual stroll, so be careful as you descend especially with your gear. Once you are at the bottom, light is limited. The gorge walls and tree canopy block most direct sunlight, so a tripod is essential if you want clean long exposure shots of the water. Overcast days work well here since you avoid harsh contrast and the moss colours stay rich and saturated. It's best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to dodge the crowds, and aim for dry conditions. The descent gets dangerous in the rain. Plan for a short visit. You will not need more than an hour or so, but what you get in that time really delivers. (Killearn, Stirlingshire, Scotland)
