Eas a' Chrannaig

Eas a' Chrannaig is a waterfall at Whiting Bay on the Isle of Arran, in North Ayrshire, Scotland. Most visitors know it by its English name, Glenashdale Falls, after the Glenashdale Burn that feeds it. It ranks among the island's most popular short walks.

What will you see?

The Glenashdale Burn starts on moorland near the summit of Tighvein and runs east toward Whiting Bay. On the way it drops over several ledges, and the biggest is a two-tier cascade. Sources give the total fall as roughly 45 metres, though figures range from 42 to 45 m. A viewing platform lets you take in the whole cascade cutting through the wooded glen. The falls look best after heavy rain and thin out noticeably in a dry summer.

How do you get there?

The path begins at Ashdale Bridge, on the southern edge of Whiting Bay. Free parking sits on both sides of the bridge, just off the A841, and fills up quickly in high season. The track climbs the glen along forest roads and paths, and the falls lie about 4 km up the valley. Most people walk a loop of 5 to 6 km with 150 to 240 m of ascent, which takes 1.5 to 3 hours depending on pace and stops.

What are the Giants' Graves?

You can extend the loop to the Giants' Graves, two prehistoric chambered cairns on a rise above the glen. The climb is steep and winding but short, and it pays off with views over Whiting Bay and Holy Island. Some walkers skip it and return the way they came. Forestry work has changed the woodland around the cairns, so check current path conditions before you set out.

When should you go and what should you wear?

The route is open all year, but the glen floor can get boggy, so wear waterproof or sturdy walking boots. One route guide gives the bog factor 4 out of 5. Spring and autumn usually bring more water over the falls than midsummer, and an early start helps you avoid crowds at the viewpoint. Apart from the climb to the Giants' Graves, the walk needs no special preparation.

Frequently asked questions

Are Eas a' Chrannaig and Glenashdale Falls the same place? Yes. One is the Gaelic name and the other the English one, and both refer to the same waterfall on the Glenashdale Burn.

How long does the walk take? The loop including the Giants' Graves usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, and up to 3 hours at a relaxed pace with breaks.

Where can you park? Free of charge at Ashdale Bridge, on either side of the road south of Whiting Bay village.

Is it suitable for families? The way to the falls is fairly easy. Only the climb to the Giants' Graves is steep, and it is optional.