Nature in the United Kingdom

Falls of Roy

Falls of Roy is a waterfall on the River Roy in Glen Roy, in the Lochaber area of the Scottish Highlands, at roughly 56.99°N, 4.70°W. It sits on the middle stretch of the river, east of Leckroy, deep inside one of the most unusual glens in Scotland. Where are the Falls of Roy? The River Roy rises in a small loch at the head of the glen and runs down Glen Roy to meet the River Spean near Roybridge. The falls lie along the middle part of that course, away from villages and main roads. The nearest settlement is Roybridge, from where a single-track road follows the glen. How do you get to the Falls of Roy? Drive up Glen Roy from Roybridge to the upper end of the road, near Brae Roy Lodge. Walkers report leaving the car on the east side of the glen road just before the cattle grid at the lodge. From there you continue on foot along the estate track, cross the bridge over the River Turret and follow the path beside the river. The falls appear as a short detour from the track heading east. Expect a countryside walk on rough ground, not a roadside viewpoint, so wear proper footwear and bring a map or offline navigation: mobile signal in the glen is unreliable. What will you see? Visitors describe a waterfall with a pleasant plunge pool at its foot. In dry weather the water level is fairly low and the pool is easy to see. After heavy rain or snowmelt the river runs much stronger and the falls look far more dramatic, though the track can then be wetter. No official height is widely quoted, so treat it as a modest, scenic cascade rather than a headline waterfall. What else is nearby? Glen Roy is famous for the "Parallel Roads": three level terraces cut into the hillsides, which are old shorelines of lakes dammed by glaciers at the end of the last Ice Age. They are entirely natural and are among the best-known geological features in Scotland. Combining the falls with a stop at the viewpoints along the glen road makes a good half-day outing from Roybridge or Spean Bridge. When is the best time to visit? Late spring and early autumn usually give a good balance of water flow and walkable conditions. Winter brings short days and possible snow in the upper glen, so check the weather before you set out. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee for the Falls of Roy? No. The falls are reached on public tracks in the glen, and no ticket is required. Is the walk difficult? It is a short, rough walk on an estate track and a path beside the river. It suits anyone used to hill paths but is not buggy or wheelchair friendly. Can I see the Parallel Roads on the same trip? Yes. They are visible from the glen road and its viewpoints, so you can pair them with the falls in one visit. Where is the nearest village? Roybridge, at the mouth of the glen, where the River Roy joins the River Spean.

Achness Waterfall

Rosehall

Achness Waterfall (Achness Falls) drops through a rocky gorge on the River Cassley beside the village of Rosehall in Sutherland, in the Scottish Highlands. Ordnance Survey maps label it Achness, while locals call it Cassley Falls. The name comes from the Gaelic "Ach-an-eas", meaning "field of the waterfall". What will you see? The river tumbles over a series of ledges and rapids. When the water is low, the lower drop looks like a thin white veil. After heavy rain the Cassley turns into a roaring torrent that fills the whole gorge. Woodland closes in on both sides, so the scene feels green and secluded, and you hear the falls well before you see them. Can you watch salmon here? The Cassley is a salmon river, and the ledge at Achness is a real obstacle for the fish. In early spring they gather below the falls and, according to anglers' accounts, wait for the water to climb above roughly 10°C before pushing upstream. Your best chance of seeing fish leap comes when the river runs high during the migration season. How do you get to the falls? Start at the Forestry Commission car park in Rosehall (grid reference NC 479 019), where a log cabin holds information displays. You have two options: Quick visit: a direct path from almost opposite the car park reaches the falls in about two minutes. Loop walk: cross the A837 bridge, follow the east bank upstream to the falls, then return along a minor road. The path is clear but sometimes narrow and rocky, with a few climbs and a steep flight of stone steps near the river. No public transport serves Rosehall, so plan on arriving by car. When is the best time to visit? The falls look most dramatic after rain, when the river carries plenty of water. Spring and early summer give the best odds of spotting salmon. Wear shoes with good grip, because the rocks beside the river can be slippery. What else is nearby? Forest trails at Rosehall start from the same car park, so you can stretch the falls into a longer outing. The Cassley valley is a quiet corner of southern Sutherland, well suited to an unhurried day on foot away from the crowds. Frequently asked questions How long does it take to reach Achness Waterfall? About two minutes on the direct path from the car park. The full loop with the return along the minor road takes a few hours at an easy pace. Are Achness Falls and Cassley Falls the same waterfall? Yes. Ordnance Survey maps use the name Achness, and locals say Cassley Falls. Can you reach it by public transport? No. There is no public transport near Rosehall, so the easiest way is to drive to the Forestry Commission car park. When is the best time to see salmon? During the migration season, especially when the water is running high and the fish try to clear the ledge.

Brontë Waterfall

Bradford

Brontë Waterfall is a small cascade on South Dean Beck, set in the moorland above Haworth in West Yorkshire, within the City of Bradford district. It sits roughly a mile south-west of the village of Stanbury and has long been a favourite stop for walkers following in the footsteps of the Brontë sisters. What will you see at Brontë Waterfall? The beck drops over a few low rock steps into a narrow, tree-lined hollow. It is not a dramatic waterfall in size; the appeal is the setting, with open heather moor all around and very little development in sight. Just downstream, a stone slab bridge known as Brontë Bridge crosses the water. A flash flood washed the earlier crossing away in May 1989, and in March 1990 five gritstone slabs were flown in by helicopter so the bridge could be rebuilt. Nearby you will also hear about the Brontë Chair, a seat-shaped rock said to be where the sisters sat and swapped stories. Why is it linked to the Brontë family? Charlotte, Emily and Anne lived in Haworth and, by most accounts, spent a lot of time on these moors. The waterfall is known as one of the spots they liked, which is why it appears on nearly every literary walking route through what is marketed as Brontë Country. How do you get there from Haworth? A waymarked path leads to the falls as part of the Brontë Way, passing through Penistone Hill Country Park. One walking guide gives about 2.5 miles each way from Haworth, around an hour on foot. Shorter loops from the village come in under 6 km, while longer routes that add Top Withens run to around 12 km and take 3 to 4 hours. The ground is uneven and often muddy, so wear proper boots. Is it worth continuing to Top Withens? Cross the bridge and follow Enfield Side Road uphill to reach the ruins of Top Withens, a little over a mile from the falls. The ruined farmhouse is traditionally tied to Emily Brontë's novel Wuthering Heights, though a plaque on site notes that the building did not resemble the house in the book. Budget an extra 60 to 90 minutes for the detour. When should you go and what should you bring? Dry days from late spring to early autumn are best, when paths are firmer and the heather blooms in August and September. After heavy rain the beck swells and the approach can be slippery. Once you leave Haworth there are no cafés or shops on the route, so carry water and food. Moorland weather changes quickly, so pack a waterproof. Frequently asked questions Where exactly is Brontë Waterfall? On South Dean Beck, about a mile south-west of Stanbury and close to Haworth in West Yorkshire. How long is the walk from Haworth? The direct route is about an hour each way; circuits that include Top Withens take 3 to 4 hours. Are there cafés on the way? No. There is nowhere to buy food after leaving Haworth, so bring your own. Is Top Withens the Wuthering Heights house? It is traditionally associated with the novel, but the on-site plaque stresses that the building did not match the book's description. Is there an entry fee? Nothing suggests the falls are ticketed. It lies on open moorland reached by public footpaths.

Cauldron Snout

Cauldron Snout is a long cascade on the upper River Tees in northern England, directly beneath the Cow Green Reservoir dam in Upper Teesdale, where County Durham meets Cumbria. It sits inside the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which is also a European Geopark. Commonly quoted figures put the total drop at around 60 m over roughly 180 m of river, which is why it is often described as the longest waterfall in England. What will you see at Cauldron Snout? Instead of a single sheer drop, the Tees tumbles down a staircase of dark dolerite, part of the Whin Sill rock formation. The water funnels through a steep, narrow channel and, after rain, you can hear it long before you arrive. The concrete dam looms at the top, so the scene mixes engineering with bare moorland. The surrounding Upper Teesdale landscape is also known for rare plants and the protected Moor House–Upper Teesdale reserve. How do you get there? The shortest approach starts at the Cow Green Reservoir car park and runs about 3 km one way. The path follows the reservoir shore, then heads down the valley until you reach the foot of the dam beside the falls. Longer circuits begin at Langdon Beck and link Cauldron Snout with Widdybank Fell or Cronkley Scar. The Pennine Way, Britain's oldest national long-distance trail, passes the falls too, so you will often meet walkers on the full route. Is the path beside the falls difficult? The route next to the cascade is rocky and includes a short scramble. When the stone is wet it becomes slippery and genuinely hazardous, so wear boots with good grip and take your time. The area is remote, mobile signal can be patchy and the moorland weather turns quickly. Carry a warm layer, water and a map. When is the best time to visit? Days after rain give the most dramatic flow, though they also raise the slip risk. Summer offers the best chance of dry rock and long daylight, while late spring and early summer bring the flowers Upper Teesdale is known for. In winter the area can be snowy and icy, which calls for real hill experience. Is there anything else worth combining with it? High Force, the better-known waterfall on the Tees, is a separate attraction much farther downstream. A full day out can pair Cauldron Snout with a stretch of the Pennine Way along the river and views over Cow Green Reservoir. Frequently asked questions Where is Cauldron Snout? In Upper Teesdale, just below the Cow Green Reservoir dam, on the boundary between County Durham and Cumbria in England. How high is it? Sources give about 60 m of total fall over around 180 m of length. It is a cascade rather than a single drop. How long is the walk from Cow Green car park? About 3 km each way, which most walkers cover in roughly an hour at an easy pace. Is Cauldron Snout on the Pennine Way? Yes. The trail passes right beside the cascade, and the final section needs care when the rock is wet.

Falls of Leny

Falls of Leny is a run of cascades on the River Leny, just north-west of Callander in the Stirling council area of Scotland. It sits inside Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, where the river drops over rocky steps through the wooded Pass of Leny. What are the Falls of Leny? The river, known in Gaelic as Garbh Uisge, crosses the Highland Boundary Fault here, the geological line separating the Highlands from the Lowlands. It leaves Loch Lubnaig and tumbles towards Callander in a series of ledges and rapids rather than one tall drop. That makes the place more about the sound and movement of water among trees than a single big view, so it pays to walk a short stretch and look from several spots. How do I get there and where do I park? Drive the A84 between Strathyre and Callander. At the southern end of Loch Lubnaig a car park lies across a bridge over the river, with paths running along the gorge. A second car park serves the Leny Woods area, signed from the Callander side. Access to individual car parks and viewpoints changes from time to time, so check the current notice from Forestry and Land Scotland before setting off. What is the walk like? You can reach the falls on foot or by bike from Callander along the old railway line, roughly 4 km each way. A shorter option starts from the Leny Woods car park. The path follows a fence to viewpoints that give a better look at the falls than the west bank does. The going is easy, though it gets muddy after rain. Trails towards Ben Ledi, the prominent hill nearby, start in the same area. When should I visit, and will I see salmon? The water looks best after rainfall, which is also when you need the most care: the current is very fast and can sweep a person away, so stay off wet rocks and out of the river. In autumn, salmon run up the river and try to leap the ledges. Sightings are never guaranteed, since they depend on the season and water level. What else can I combine it with? Callander, a few kilometres away, has cafes and shops, and Loch Lubnaig offers forest paths. The falls fit easily into a day exploring the Trossachs. Frequently asked questions Is there an entry fee? No. You view the falls from woodland and riverside paths. Parking may have its own rules, so read the signs on site. How long should I allow? A short walk from the car park takes about an hour. The route from Callander along the old railway takes longer, so plan half a day. Can I swim here? No. The current is strong and the rocks are slippery, especially after rain. Enjoy the falls from the marked viewpoints. Can I get there without a car? Yes, a walking and cycling path follows the former railway from Callander. Is it suitable for families? Yes, if children stay close and keep to the paths, because the riverbank is slippery.

Eas a' Bhradain

Eas a' Bhradain is a waterfall on the Isle of Skye in the Highland region of Scotland, set between the mountain Marsco and the sea inlet of Loch Ainort. The Gaelic name means "the salmon's waterfall", and the 1870s Ordnance Survey Name Book records it as "the Salmon's Cataract". Where is Eas a' Bhradain? The fall sits in the central part of Skye, between Marsco and Loch Ainort, at roughly 57.26° N, 6.09° W (grid reference NG531262). Water drops along the Allt Coire nam Bruadaran, a burn that runs off the flanks of Marsco toward the loch. The site lies close to the A87, the main road linking Broadford with Portree. What will you see? The Name Book entries from 1876–78 give the height as about 25 feet, around 7 to 8 metres. This is not a towering single curtain but a mountain burn tumbling over rocky steps, and photographers describe several tiers. Behind it you get the rounded, reddish slopes of the Red Cuillin, a typical backdrop in this part of the island. How do you get there? Getting here is easy by car. Follow the A87 near Loch Ainort and pull in at the car park, from which a short path leads to the falls. Photography guides place the viewpoint right beside the parking area, so a brief stop needs no special preparation. Climbing Marsco is a far bigger undertaking, but the waterfall works as a quick halt on a drive around the island. When should you go? The burn is fed by runoff from the hills, so the fall looks best after rain, when it carries the most water. Weather on Skye changes quickly, so bring a waterproof jacket and sturdy, grippy footwear, as rocks beside the water can be slippery. Soft, even light on an overcast day suits long-exposure shots of moving water. Frequently asked questions What does Eas a' Bhradain mean? It is Gaelic for "waterfall of the salmon". Which island is it on? The Isle of Skye, Highland, between Marsco and Loch Ainort. How high is the waterfall? Historic Ordnance Survey records give around 25 feet, roughly 7 to 8 metres. Is it hard to reach? No. It lies near the A87, and the parking spot is close to the viewpoint.

Bracklinn Falls

Bracklinn Falls is a run of cascades on the Keltie Water, just north-east of Callander in the Stirling council area of Scotland. It sits inside Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, right where the river crosses the Highland Boundary Fault, the geological line between the Lowlands and the Highlands. What will you see at Bracklinn Falls? The Keltie Water drops over several rocky steps into a deep, wooded gorge. The best view is from the footbridge hung high above the cascades, looking straight down the stepped drop. After heavy rain the water thunders; in dry spells the flow thins out, but the rock ledges still make an impressive scene. What happened to the famous wooden bridge? A bridge has long defined this spot. A steel footbridge was lost to flooding in August 2004. In October 2010 a wood-and-copper replacement, about 20 m long and weighing 20 tonnes, was hauled across the gorge by hand because a crane could not reach it. The timber began to deteriorate and the bridge was closed around 2020-21. Its successor, a weathering-steel footbridge roughly 21.7 m long, opened to walkers in March 2023. Check the national park's notices for current path conditions before you set out. How do you walk to Bracklinn Falls? The walk starts in Callander. A woodland path climbs the valley to the falls, and the usual loop back to town runs from about 3.5 to 5.5 km depending on the variant you choose. Plan on 2 to 2.5 hours. The path can be muddy and stony, so wear boots with good grip. Callander is a stop on the road between Stirling and the Trossachs, so you can arrive by car or bus and find cafes and shops in town afterwards. What else can you combine with the visit? The same area gives access to Callander Crags, a rocky hill above the town with views over the Teith valley. Linking the two makes a full day out. Further west lie the lochs and hills of the Trossachs. When is the best time to go? Water volume peaks after rain, usually in autumn and winter, but paths are slippery then. In spring and early summer the gorge is green and the days are long. Always pack a waterproof, as Scottish weather changes quickly. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee for Bracklinn Falls? No. The falls lie on an open path within the national park. How long does the walk from Callander take? Usually 2 to 2.5 hours as a loop, including time for photos on the bridge. Is the route suitable for children? For children used to walking, yes, but the path can be steep and slippery, and young ones need watching near the gorge. Is the old wooden bridge still there? No. The 2010 timber bridge was removed because of wear, and a new steel footbridge has been open since March 2023.

Falls of Orrin

Falls of Orrin is a waterfall on the River Orrin near Muir of Ord in the Highland council area of Scotland. Here the river tumbles through a rocky, wooded gorge before entering Strathconon and heading on towards the River Conon. The falls sit by the hamlet of Aultgowrie, just west of Muir of Ord, and make an easy outing for walkers. What will you see at the Falls of Orrin? The highlight is a cascade in a tree-lined gorge, visible from either bank. The south side offers the easiest approach to the water. Flow varies with the weather, so the falls look best after rain and more modest in a dry spell. There is some industrial heritage too. A small hydro scheme beside the falls supplied Fairburn House with electricity from 1898. Later, the river was developed upstream with a dam and the Orrin Reservoir, and a small run-of-river scheme returned to the falls. How do you get to the Falls of Orrin? Most routes start near Orrin Bridge in Aultgowrie. The roadside parking is small and has been closed temporarily in the past, so check current access before you travel. Walking groups also suggest leaving the car at the distillery car park in Muir of Ord and walking about 10 minutes to the start. What is the walk like? The popular circuit is around 6 km with roughly 100 m of ascent, following estate tracks and riverside paths. It is rated easy. A linear alternative follows the river up to the dam with views over the reservoir, with a short path detour to the falls. Take care near the gorge: rock is slippery when wet, and there are tree roots and open edges. Paths can turn muddy after rain, so wear proper footwear. When should you go? Aim for a day or two after rain, when the river carries more water. Spring and autumn usually give a stronger flow than high summer. Allow about two hours for the loop including stops. Frequently asked questions Is there an entry fee for the Falls of Orrin? I found no information about any charge to see the falls; it is an open riverside walk, but check parking arrangements locally. How long does the walk take? The 6 km circuit takes around two hours at an easy pace with photo stops. Is the route difficult? No, it is considered easy. The main hazards are wet rock and mud near the gorge. Where can you park? There is a small car park by the road in Aultgowrie. If it is full, use the distillery car park in Muir of Ord and walk from there.

Swallow Falls

Swallow Falls (Welsh: Rhaeadr Ewynnol) is a tiered waterfall on the River Llugwy, roughly two miles west of Betws-y-Coed in Conwy County Borough, in the heart of Snowdonia, North Wales. The river drops through a rocky wooded gorge in several steps, with a total fall reported at around 42 metres. It ranks among the most visited waterfalls in Wales. Why is it called Swallow Falls? There are two popular explanations. One says the Welsh word ewynnol, meaning foaming, was misheard as y wennol, the swallow. The other points to a rock that splits the flow and gives the water the look of a swallow's forked tail. Guidebooks repeat both, and neither is settled. What will you see? The Llugwy squeezes into a narrow gorge and tumbles down in a few separate streams. After heavy rain the falls are broad and loud; in a dry summer they thin out noticeably. There are two viewing areas: a lower platform reached by steps from the turnstile (under two minutes down), and an upper spot with a view of the top section. The landowner gave the falls to the local council in 1913. Admission charges were introduced to pay off the debt from bringing water and electricity to the village, and the fee is still collected. How do you get there and where do you park? The falls sit beside the A5, about two miles from the centre of Betws-y-Coed. Park in the hotel car park opposite the entrance or in a nearby lay-by. Snowdon Sherpa buses (S1 and T10) also stop nearby. Walkers can follow a riverside path from the village, or take the woodland trail from the Ty'n Llwyn car park in Gwydir Forest to a viewpoint. What does it cost and is it accessible? Local sources list admission at £2 per person, paid at the turnstile with coins or a contactless card. The turnstile entrance is available around the clock all year. The route to the lower platform is by steps only, so it does not suit wheelchairs or pushchairs. Check current prices and hours before you go, as they can change. When is the best time to visit? Visit after rain, which in practice means spring, autumn or winter, when the flow is strong and bare branches leave the cascade in view. In summer foliage hides parts of the falls and crowds are larger. The viewing itself takes 20–30 minutes; combined with the walk from the village and a wander round Betws-y-Coed, it fills half a day. Frequently asked questions Is Swallow Falls the tallest waterfall in Wales? Some guides describe it that way, but sources differ, and heights quoted for Welsh waterfalls vary. What is certain is that it is one of the best-known cascades in the country. How long should I allow? Around 20–30 minutes for both viewpoints. Walking in from the village adds an hour or more. Can I bring children or a dog? Guidebooks report that children and dogs enter free. Keep in mind the steep steps, which get slippery in wet weather. Can I see the falls for free? Some glimpses are possible from the road or from the riverside path, but the full view from the platforms requires a ticket.

St Nectan's Kieve

Tintagel

St Nectan's Kieve near Tintagel is a rock basin fed by an 18-metre (60 ft) fall of the Trevillet River, set in the wooded valley of St Nectan's Glen at the hamlet of Trethevy in north Cornwall. It sits a short drive from Tintagel Castle and ranks among the most visited natural sights in the area. The land is privately owned, so you pay to enter. What is the Kieve? "Kieve" comes from a Cornish word for a tub or vat. The water drops into a deep, rounded bowl worn into the rock and then escapes through a gap in the wall to carry on down the glen. The name appears in 1799 as "Nathan's Cave". Upstream and downstream of the main fall the river forms smaller steps and pools worth a look along the path. Who was St Nectan, and what is legend? Nectan was an early medieval saint whose real associations lie with Hartland in Devon. The link to this waterfall was built mainly in the nineteenth century, notably through a poem by the Rev. Robert Stephen Hawker in 1846. Stories of a hermitage above the fall, a silver bell warning ships, or Arthurian knights praying here before the Grail quest are later inventions. There is no evidence that Nectan ever stayed at this spot, and the "hermitage" described in the 1800s was an ordinary garden summerhouse. Enjoy the atmosphere, but treat the tales as folklore. How do you get there? Drive to Trethevy, where a pay-and-display car park serves the glen for the whole day. From there allow about 30 minutes on a woodland path to reach the ticket office, gift shop and cafe, then a further descent beside the river to the fall. Wear shoes with good grip, because rock and wooden steps get slippery. The glen also lies close to the coast path network, so walkers can arrive on foot from Tintagel or Boscastle. Is it open, and what does it cost? Access is controlled by the private owners. Tickets are sold on the day at the shop and cafe. The official website currently lists adults at £11, children aged 5 to 15 at £6, and under-5s free. Older guides quote lower prices, so confirm the current rate before you travel. Hours follow the season: roughly 9:30 to 17:00 in summer and shorter days in winter, with last entry 30 minutes before closing. The site also runs a quiet period early in the morning. Check the official St Nectan's Glen website for exact dates and times. When is the best time to visit? Arrive soon after opening and outside school holidays for the fewest crowds. After heavy rain the fall is at its most dramatic, and in summer the tree cover keeps the glen cool. In winter the path turns muddy and daylight in the valley is limited. Plan around two hours for the visit including the walk in and out. What else is nearby? Trethevy has St Piran's Chapel, dating from at least the mid fifteenth century, plus a holy well dedicated to the same saint. Tintagel Castle and the harbour at Boscastle are close, so the Kieve fits easily into a day along the north Cornish coast. Frequently asked questions Is St Nectan's Kieve free to visit? No. The land is private and entry requires a ticket bought on site. Parking is charged separately. Can you swim in the pool? Rules are set by the owners and can change. Check at the ticket office and on signs in the glen before getting in; the rocks are slippery and the water is cold. Is it suitable for children? Yes, for children who can walk the distance. The path is wooded, uneven and often damp, so a pushchair is not practical. Did St Nectan really live here? There is no evidence of it. The connection to the waterfall comes from nineteenth-century storytelling, while the historical Nectan is tied to Hartland in Devon.

Rhaeadr Cynfal

Llan Ffestiniog

Rhaeadr Cynfal (Cynfal Falls) is a waterfall in the wooded gorge of the Afon Cynfal, just outside the village of Llan Ffestiniog in Gwynedd, inside Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park, North Wales. It sits within Ceunant Cynfal National Nature Reserve, managed by Natural Resources Wales. What will you see along the Afon Cynfal? Over a very long time the river cut a gorge that the Welsh environment agency counts among the finest in Britain. Water drops in steep cascades, and the most dramatic stretch is seen from a restored Victorian viewing platform. The riverbed shows classic erosion features: potholes, narrow slots, arches and a freestanding rock stack. That stack is called Huw Llwyd's Pulpit. Local tradition says Huw Llwyd, a reputed sorcerer from the days of James I, would climb onto the rock to recite verse and preach. Why is the gorge a protected site? Oak woodland clothes the gorge and is regarded as a remnant of Britain's Atlantic rainforest. It is one of six Meirionnydd oakwood reserves, of which only two welcome visitors. The damp air suits mosses and liverworts, and the gorge is a Site of Special Scientific Interest; NRW material lists well over a hundred species of them. Redstart, wood warbler and pied flycatcher nest among the trees. How do you get to the falls? The walk begins in Llan Ffestiniog village. Natural Resources Wales describes it as a strenuous out-and-back route of about 2.2 km (1.4 miles) with roughly 90 m of climbing, taking around an hour. The path is not waymarked, can be narrow and in places runs close to the gorge edge. Other guides describe longer loop versions, so check a current route description before you set off. Llan Ffestiniog is reached via the A470 from Blaenau Ffestiniog or Trawsfynydd. When should you visit? The falls look their best after rain, though the path is then slippery. Spring and early summer bring fresh green woodland and the busiest birdlife. Wear boots with good grip and keep well back from the edge. Frequently asked questions Can you drive to the falls? No, the reserve is reached on foot only. The route starts in the village of Llan Ffestiniog. Is the walk suitable for children? It is short but steep and narrow in places, which is why NRW grades it strenuous. Take care with young children. Who was Huw Llwyd? A figure from local lore, described as a sorcerer of James I's time. The rock pillar in the river carries his name. Is this the same as Swallow Falls? No. Swallow Falls is near Betws-y-Coed, while Rhaeadr Cynfal lies near Llan Ffestiniog, some distance to the south-west.

Ashgill Force

Ashgill Force is a waterfall in the North Pennines of Cumbria, northern England, close to the village of Garrigill and the town of Alston. The water drops roughly 20 metres into a wooded ravine on Ash Gill, shortly before the stream meets the River South Tyne. It is the tallest fall in a landscape once shaped by lead mining, and a rewarding target for a short outing. What makes Ashgill Force special? The rock does the work here. A band of blue-grey Scar Limestone, about 10 metres thick, forms a ledge that the stream has hollowed out beneath. That leaves a gap where you can stand behind the falling water, though expect to get a little damp. Trees line the gorge, and downstream the beck breaks into small cascades and pools. How do you get to the waterfall? The quickest way is from the B6277, the road linking Teesdale with Alston. At Ashgill Bridge (grid reference NY 759404) a short path drops into the gorge, and the fall sits just below the bridge. For a longer day, walk from Garrigill along the South Tyne Trail beside the river. One loop covers about 4.4 km with around 80 metres of climbing. This approach is pleasant, but the final stretch is noticeably steeper. A longer circuit in walking guides runs 8.2 miles (about 13 km) with some 270 metres of ascent. Where can you park? Walk descriptions from Garrigill mention a space for one car around 200 metres beyond Crossgill Bridge, on a no-through road south of the village. A small car park also marks the start of the Garrigill loop. Capacity is limited, so arrive early in busy periods. When is the best time to visit? The fall looks best after heavy rain, when the flow is strongest. That is also when the rocks turn slippery and the current becomes dangerous, so keep clear of the water and avoid scrambling in winter. Sturdy footwear with good grip helps all year. Frequently asked questions Can you walk behind Ashgill Force? Yes. The undercut limestone lip leaves room to pass behind the curtain of water, but the ground is wet and slippery. How tall is Ashgill Force? Sources give about 20 metres, making it the highest waterfall in the surrounding area. What is the easiest way to reach it? From Ashgill Bridge on the B6277. It is a short descent into the wooded gorge with no long walk required. Is it a good walk from Garrigill? Yes. The South Tyne Trail follows the river, and the loop including the waterfall is roughly 4.4 km. The last part is steep.

Falls of Dee

Falls of Dee is a remote waterfall in the Cairngorms of Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The infant River Dee tumbles over the crags of An Garbh Choire, the great corrie on the south side of Braeriach. It is widely described as the highest waterfall in the UK, and it is also one of the hardest to reach. There is no car park and no signed path, only high mountain terrain inside the Cairngorms National Park. Where are the Falls of Dee? The falls sit high on the Braeriach massif, at roughly 57.07° N, 3.74° W. Do not confuse them with the Linn of Dee, a small rocky gorge low in Glen Dee, or with the Chest of Dee, a separate feature further down the river. The Falls of Dee are far higher and much more remote, just below the plateau edge. Where does the river begin? The Dee rises at the Wells of Dee, springs regarded as the highest source of any watercourse in the British Isles. The water gathers on the plateau, cuts a small channel and then drops into the corrie. From there the river runs down Glen Dee and across Aberdeenshire to the North Sea at Aberdeen. How do you get to the Falls of Dee? Expect a full day in the hills and bring solid navigation skills. From Glen Dee: start at the Linn of Dee car park, cycle or walk to Derry Lodge, continue towards Corrour Bothy in the Lairig Ghru and climb to the ridge above the corrie. A bike helps on the early track, but the path further on gets boggy. From Glen Einich: a popular approach to Braeriach, followed by a walk along the corrie rim. Along the rim: you view the falls from above, and the route is often combined with a detour to the Wells of Dee and on to Cairn Toul. Including a bike approach, a full round over Braeriach comes to about 23 miles with around 1,100 m of ascent. Take real care near the cliff edges in poor weather. When is the best time to go? Late spring to early autumn. In winter the falls can vanish under deep snow, and the water only reappears in late spring. Weather on the plateau changes quickly, so carry a map, compass and spare layers. What else will you see on the way? Corrour Bothy, a one-room stone refuge in the Lairig Ghru between the Devil's Point and Cairn Toul. Avoid drinking straight from the river below the bothy. An Garbh Choire itself, one of the wildest corries in the Cairngorms. The Munros of Braeriach and Cairn Toul. Frequently asked questions Are the Falls of Dee the highest waterfall in Britain? Walk reports and guides describe them that way. The height is hard to judge from below because the water drops off the corrie walls beneath the plateau. Is there a short route to the falls? No. From any direction it is a long mountain day, usually many miles each way. Are the Falls of Dee the same as the Linn of Dee? No. The Linn of Dee is a set of rapids low in the glen, an easy walk from the car park. The Falls of Dee lie high under Braeriach. Can you visit in winter? Snow usually hides the falls, and the trip demands winter equipment and experience.

Falls of Tummel

Pitlochry

Falls of Tummel is a waterfall on the River Tummel near Pitlochry, in Perth and Kinross, in the Scottish Highlands. It is also called the Linn of Tummel, and it sits where the Tummel meets the River Garry, inside woodland cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. What will you see at the Falls of Tummel? Here the Tummel tumbles over a rocky step and runs on towards the Garry. Broadleaf woods line the banks, and flat rocks beside the water make good picnic seats. The estate covers roughly 19 hectares. It has belonged to the National Trust for Scotland since 1944, when Dr George Freeland Barbour of Bonskeid handed it over. An obelisk in the grounds marks Queen Victoria's visit in 1844. The name comes from Gaelic and refers to a pool beneath a falling stream. The drop used to be much greater. When the Pitlochry hydro-electric scheme raised the water levels around 1950 and Loch Faskally formed, most of the fall went under water, and today mainly its upper part shows. How do you get there? From Pitlochry it is a short drive along the B8019 heading north-west, about 3 miles out of town. Leave the car at Garry Bridge, where woodland paths follow the river. The popular circuit is around 3 km, so an hour is enough with time for photos. There are no toilets or cafes along the way, so bring your own food and drink. When is the best time to visit? In summer and autumn you may spot salmon climbing the rocks on their spawning run, roughly July to October. Autumn also colours the riverside trees, which makes the walk especially scenic. After heavy rain the water runs stronger and the cascade looks more dramatic. What else is nearby? Combine the walk with other Pitlochry sights. Trails run along Loch Faskally, and the dam with its fish ladder belongs to the hydro-electric station. Further north-west, above Loch Tummel, the Queen's View lookout is named after Queen Victoria. The falls themselves make an easy, relaxed short outing. Is it safe to swim here? Some people swim wild at the site, but the current and rocky bed are dangerous. In April 2024 two men died in the water at the falls. Enjoy the cascade from the bank and stay out of the river, especially when the level is high. Frequently asked questions Are the Falls of Tummel and the Linn of Tummel the same place? Yes. Both names describe the same waterfall and the surrounding area at the Tummel and Garry confluence. Where can you park? At Garry Bridge on the B8019, about 3 miles north-west of Pitlochry. Are there toilets or a cafe on the route? No. The nearest facilities are in Pitlochry, so stock up before you set off. How long should you plan? A short walk takes about an hour. Allow around two hours if you want to rest by the water and explore the woods.

Falls of the Glasallt

Falls of the Glasallt (also written Falls of Glas Allt) is a waterfall of roughly 50 metres in Aberdeenshire, inside Cairngorms National Park. It sits at the western end of Loch Muick on the Balmoral Estate, around 13 to 14 km southwest of the village of Ballater. The Glas Allt burn drops here through a steep ravine on its way down from the slopes of Lochnagar. What will you see? The water tumbles over rocky ledges near the top of the ravine, then keeps racing downhill towards the loch. Flow is strongest after rain or during the spring thaw. Down on the small delta beside Loch Muick stands Glas-allt-Shiel, a former royal lodge. What is the link with Queen Victoria? Victoria liked to stroll beside this stream. After Prince Albert died she had the Glas-allt-Shiel cottage rebuilt on the spot where the burn meets the loch, and it became her quiet retreat. The house remains part of the royal estate and is not run as a visitor attraction, but you can see where it sits by the water as you walk. How do you get to the falls? Start at the Spittal of Glenmuick car park, beside the Loch Muick visitor centre. From there: a broad estate track follows the shore, and it is about 2.5 to 3 km to the foot of the ravine; the last stretch is a narrower, steeper path, a short side trip from the main track; the full circuit of the loch including the falls detour is about 14 km with around 300 m of climbing, roughly 3.5 to 4 hours at an easy pace. Hikers also pass the falls on the descent from Lochnagar. That round trip is about 19 km with some 900 m of ascent and calls for good fitness. When should you go, and what should you bring? Late spring to early autumn gives the driest paths and longest daylight. Mountain weather turns quickly, so pack waterproofs, sturdy boots and a map. Mobile signal is patchy along the loch. The visitor centre at the car park has facilities, but there are no shops on the route. Frequently asked questions How high is the waterfall? About 50 metres (160 ft). Where do I park? At Spittal of Glenmuick on the Balmoral Estate, at the end of the road from Ballater. Parking is charged. Is the walk suitable for families? The loch-side track is flat and wide. The final climb to the falls is steep and stony, so small children may prefer to stop at the shore. Can I visit Glas-allt-Shiel? It is part of the private royal estate, so you can view it from outside as you walk along the loch. Do I need a guide? Not for the loch circuit. For Lochnagar, bring mountain navigation experience.

Eas Chia-aig

Eas Chia-aig (Chia-aig Falls) is a woodland waterfall in Lochaber, in the Scottish Highlands, close to the hamlets of Achnacarry and Clunes. The Gaelic name simply means the falls of the Chia-aig, the burn that drops here through a narrow wooded gorge on its way between Loch Lochy and Loch Arkaig. Where is Eas Chia-aig? The falls lie roughly halfway between the two lochs, on land long associated with Clan Cameron. The nearest towns are Spean Bridge and the village of Gairlochy. The coordinates are about 56.955 N, 5.001 W. How do you get there? Take the B8005, the single-track road linking Gairlochy with Loch Arkaig. The car park sits right beside it, at the western end of the stretch known as the Mile Dorcha, the "dark mile", named for the dense trees overhanging the tarmac. A short path leads from the car park to the water. The road is narrow, so drive slowly and use the passing places. What will you see? The star is the lower drop, which ends in a deep, very dark pool. Its colour gave it the local name Witches Cauldron. Above it, the burn steps down through several smaller cascades between mossy rock and old trees. The falls featured in the 1995 film Rob Roy, which draws visitors with an eye for movie locations. In summer some people swim in the pool. The bed is stony, so water shoes help, and the water stays cold all year. Which walks start here? A quiet track runs from the falls along Loch Arkaig to a meadow where Glen Mallie meets the shore. Beyond the immediate area around the falls you will meet few other walkers. A side trip of roughly 2 km each way reaches the Clan Cameron Museum at Achnacarry. There is also a moderate loop of around 8 km with views over Loch Arkaig, which takes about two hours. An older viewpoint-and-cave path has been removed by the forest managers. In 2021 the path up Gleann Cia-aig was closed while a small hydro dam was built, and walkers were sent along the road. Check the signs on site before you set off. When should you visit? Spring and autumn are best, as is the day after rain, when the burn carries the most water. After a dry spell in summer the flow can be thin. Bring waterproof footwear, and midge repellent for warm, damp days. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee? No. The site is open to all and the car park is beside the road. How long should I allow? Half an hour to 45 minutes for the falls alone, or about two hours with the Loch Arkaig loop. Can you swim here? Yes, in the pool below the falls, but the bottom is stony and the water very cold. What else is nearby? Loch Arkaig, the Clan Cameron Museum at Achnacarry, and Spean Bridge with its views toward Ben Nevis.

River Lyd

West Devon

River Lyd is a river in West Devon, England, running along the western edge of Dartmoor National Park. It is best known around the village of Lydford, where it has carved Lydford Gorge, a wooded ravine looked after by the National Trust. It is not the same river as the River Lyd in Gloucestershire, which joins the Severn at Lydney. What is there to see along the River Lyd? The star attraction is Lydford Gorge, in National Trust care since 1947. The river runs deep inside a rocky cleft, with steep slopes covered in dense woodland. The site is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is an example of temperate rainforest, a rare habitat: damp, mossy and full of ferns. Two features draw most visitors: White Lady Waterfall, at the southern end of the gorge, drops roughly 30 m and is often called one of the tallest in South West England. Its name comes from a local legend of a ghostly woman. Devil's Cauldron, at the northern end, where the river squeezes through a very narrow stretch of the gorge in a tumble of chutes, potholes and whirlpools. A viewing platform looks down into the deepest part. How do you explore the gorge? There are two main routes. The Devil's Cauldron loop takes about 45 minutes. The waterfall route takes roughly an hour as a circuit. Walking the whole gorge covers a few miles and can take around two hours. Paths are narrow, uneven and slippery, running right beside fast water, so wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Pushchairs are not suitable. What is the history? The nearby village of Lydford was one of the fortified boroughs Alfred the Great set up to defend Wessex, and the gorge served as a natural barrier. In the 17th century it sheltered the Gubbins family, outlaws who raided Dartmoor farms for sheep. By the early 19th century travellers came to admire its scenery as a home-grown alternative to the Grand Tour. The gorge itself formed through river capture, where erosion gradually breaks down the rock between two watercourses until they merge. When should you visit? The gorge is open through the year, but opening times for individual trails change with the season and some paths close in winter. Check the National Trust website for the current schedule before you set out. Non-members pay an entry fee. The waterfall looks its best after rain, though the paths are then at their slipperiest. Frequently asked questions Is the Devon River Lyd the same as the one in Gloucestershire? No. They are separate rivers. This one flows through Dartmoor and West Devon, the other joins the Severn at Lydney. How long is the walk to White Lady Waterfall? About an hour as a circuit. Allow around 45 minutes for the Devil's Cauldron loop. Do you have to pay to enter? Yes, non-members of the National Trust pay an entry fee. The current price is on the Trust's website. Is the gorge suitable for young children? The paths are uneven and run above deep water, so children need close supervision and pushchairs should stay behind. Older children usually manage fine.

Stonebyres Falls

Nemphlar

Stonebyres Falls (Stonebyres Linn) is a waterfall on the River Clyde near the village of Nemphlar and the small town of Crossford in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. The river drops about 21 metres here. It is the lowest of the four Falls of Clyde, and the natural stopping point for salmon and sea trout swimming upstream. What is this place? The falls lie on the former Stonebyres estate, where Stonebyres Castle once stood. The Clyde valley is narrow and wooded at this point, and the river cuts through rocky ledges. The better-known Corra Linn and Bonnington Linn sit further upstream near New Lanark, so Stonebyres is a separate stop, reached from a different side of the valley. A hydro-electric station opened here in 1927, one of two built on this stretch of the Clyde. Some of the river's flow is diverted for power, so how the falls look depends on water levels and the season. How do you get to Stonebyres Falls? Most visitors approach from Crossford. Park off Smuggler's Brig Road and walk through Big Wood to the power station, roughly 2.5 km each way. You can also follow the Clyde Walkway out of Crossford. This is one of the more demanding sections of the whole route, with steps, steep gradients and unfenced drops near the edge. Wear shoes with good grip, because the paths turn slippery after rain. Which route should you pick? Short: the walk from the Smuggler's Brig Road car park through Big Wood to the power station and back. Loop: a circular route from Crossford via Stonebyres Falls and Nemphlar covers about 8.6 km, mixing riverside paths with quiet roads between fields. Longer: the Clyde Walkway continues towards New Lanark and the Falls of Clyde reserve, where you can see the other cascades. What will you see? The waterfall is partly screened by trees, especially in summer when the canopy is full. Late autumn, winter and early spring give the clearest views. Look for the power station building, a reminder of the valley's industrial past, and watch the river during the salmon run for fish leaping at the ledges. When should you visit? After heavy rain the flow is at its most powerful, but the paths are muddy. In dry spells the falls are gentler and the trail easier. The woodland descent gets dark early in winter, so bring a torch if you set off late in the afternoon. Frequently asked questions Is Stonebyres Falls the same as the Falls of Clyde? Not quite. Stonebyres Linn is one of the four Falls of Clyde, but it lies well away from the New Lanark reserve. You visit it separately from the Crossford side. How high is it? About 21 metres. Corra Linn, the tallest in the group, is about 28 metres. Is the walk difficult? The short walk from the car park is easy, but the Clyde Walkway section from Crossford has steps, steep slopes and unprotected edges. It is unsuitable for pushchairs and for young children without close supervision. Why do people mention salmon? Stonebyres Linn is the first natural barrier on the Clyde for migrating fish, so it marks the upper limit of their journey up the river.

Falls of Clyde

Lanark

Falls of Clyde is a series of waterfalls on the River Clyde just beyond New Lanark, close to Lanark in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. The wooded gorge forms a Scottish Wildlife Trust nature reserve, and the area lies within the UNESCO World Heritage Site that also covers the historic mill village of New Lanark. What will you see at the Falls of Clyde? The name covers several cascades, known in Scots as linns. Three sit upstream of New Lanark: Bonnington Linn, Corra Linn and Dundaff Linn. Corra Linn is the tallest, dropping around 26 metres (some references say 28 m). Bonnington Linn, the uppermost, measures roughly 9 to 11 metres. A fourth cascade, Stonebyres Linn, lies further down the river and makes a separate outing. The reserve has more than five miles of woodland paths. Over 100 bird species have been recorded, among them dipper, raven and kingfisher. Evening badger watches and seasonal wildlife events run through the year. Why do the falls look different from how they once did? Part of the Clyde's flow feeds Bonnington hydro station, run as part of the Lanark Hydro Electric Scheme. The intake sits above Bonnington Linn, so the water bypasses both falls and returns to the river about half a kilometre below Corra Linn. The station produces 11 MW, and together with the second plant the scheme reaches 17 MW. How dramatic the cascades look therefore depends on flow management, and they are at their fullest after heavy rain. How do you get to the falls? The main entrance to the reserve is through New Lanark (address: New Lanark, ML11 9DB). Park in the village car park, walk down into the village, pass through the iron gates and take the steps beside the village visitor centre. Turn left, follow the road down to the Falls of Clyde Visitor Centre, then climb the steps into the reserve. A footbridge leads to Bonnington Linn, and the area connects to the Clyde Walkway. A local bus runs from Lanark to New Lanark. The reserve is open at all times during daylight. When should you visit, and what should you watch for? The falls are worth seeing in any season, but they carry the most water after rain and in the wetter months. Summer's long days leave time for the full circuit. The gorge has steep slopes, high cliffs and fast, deep water. Stay on the waymarked paths and never cross safety barriers. Paths turn slippery after rain or frost, so wear shoes with good grip. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee for the reserve? According to the organiser's materials, access to the reserve itself is free. Check the Scottish Wildlife Trust website for visitor centre hours and any charges. Which fall is the highest? Corra Linn, at about 26 metres. Can I combine the walk with a visit to New Lanark? Yes. The reserve entrance is in the village itself, so both are easy to see in one day. Is the route suitable for children? The paths run through woodland and include many steps and steep sections. Keep children supervised and away from the gorge edge.

Eas Fors

Eas Fors is a tiered waterfall on the west coast of the Isle of Mull in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, a few miles north of the village of Ulva Ferry and right beside the B8073. The burn drops in several stages towards the sea, and its lowest leap ends at the shore of Loch na Keal. What does the name mean, and which Eas Fors is this? The name says the same thing twice: Gaelic "eas" and Old Norse "fors" (foss) both mean waterfall. Mull has two places with this name. This one sits on the Allt an Eas Fors on the island's west side, while the other is on the Ardow Burn south of Dervaig. Check the coordinates when you plan your route so you don't head for the wrong one. What will you see? The falls come in three parts. The upper drops lie above the road and the middle ones just below it, while the lowest plunge is the showpiece: local guides put it at about 100 feet (30 m), dropping over a cliff towards the sea. It looks its best after rain, when the burn carries plenty of water. From below you also get views of the pebbly beach and the sea loch. How do you get there? The spot is not signposted, but pull-ins along the road are usually a sign you are close. The safest viewpoint for the lower fall is from the beach: walk a short way along the road towards Ulva Ferry, then follow the track along the stony shore. Guides describe the walk to the lower falls as taking no more than half an hour; the full out-and-back route is about 4 km (2 miles) with roughly 60 m of ascent and around an hour on foot. The final stretch along the beach can be submerged at high tide, so check tide times. What should you watch out for? There are no barriers at the top of the falls, and the grassy ground can be very slippery. Do not lean over the edge for a look down; the view from the beach is both safer and better. Bring waterproof footwear, as Mull's weather changes quickly. When should you visit? The waterfall is at its best after rainfall, which means often in autumn, winter and spring. In summer the flow can be much lighter, but the ground is drier. Aim for low tide so you can cross the beach without trouble. What else is nearby? You can combine Eas Fors with a trip to the island of Ulva (by boat from Ulva Ferry), the Ballygown shoreline, and a drive around northern Mull taking in Dervaig and Tobermory. It fits well into a full day by car with short walks. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee for Eas Fors? No. The falls are beside a public road and there is no charge. How long is the walk? About half an hour to the viewpoint for the lower fall; the whole round trip takes around an hour. Is it a hard walk? It is short, but the ground is uneven and the route follows a stony beach, so sturdy footwear is needed. Take real care near the edge. Is this the same waterfall as Eas Fors near Dervaig? No. Mull has two waterfalls with this name. This one is on the west coast north of Ulva Ferry; the other is on the Ardow Burn south of Dervaig.

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is a small waterfall in Wester Ross, Highland, in north-west Scotland. It has nothing in common with the giant on the Zambezi: this is a modest woodland cascade beside Loch Maree, reached on a short stroll from the roadside car park. Where are the Scottish Victoria Falls? The falls lie on the southern shore of Loch Maree, inside Slattadale Forest, managed by Forestry and Land Scotland. The water drops along the Abhainn Garbhaig, a short river that drains Loch Garbhaig into Loch Maree. Its flow comes off the Beinn Eighe massif to the south. Why the name? The falls honour Queen Victoria. In September 1877 she stayed at the Loch Maree Hotel (12 to 18 September) and made an excursion to Slattadale, where she wrote in her journal of a superb view over the loch towards Slioch. During the same stay she was taken out to Isle Maree. How do you get there? Drive the A832, roughly 10 miles north of Kinlochewe, and look for the Victoria Falls car park beside the road. A waymarked path leads through the trees to the falls. The short route is about 300 m; a longer loop covers about 0.7 km. No special fitness is needed, but the ground can be slippery after rain, so wear sturdy footwear. What will you see? a rocky step where the river tumbles in stages under the trees, mature woodland, including patches of Caledonian pine forest, views over Loch Maree and the hills around it. With extra time, continue into Slattadale Forest. The walk starting at the Victoria Falls car park is described as about 2.1 miles and ends at a viewpoint above the loch. When should you go? The falls look best after rain, when the river carries plenty of water, which can happen at any season in the Highlands. Summer brings green woods and autumn adds colour. Rain and midges are part of the local experience, so pack a waterproof and insect repellent. Frequently asked questions Is this the same Victoria Falls as the one between Zambia and Zimbabwe? No. This is a small Scottish waterfall named after the same queen; the two sites are on different continents and nothing like each other in scale. How long is the walk to the falls? The short path is around 300 m and takes a few minutes. The longer loop is about 0.7 km. Is there an entry fee? The falls sit in a national forest beside a public path. Check current parking arrangements on the Forestry and Land Scotland website before you travel. What else is nearby? Loch Maree itself, with views of Slioch, Isle Maree and the Beinn Eighe massif, plus other walks in Slattadale Forest.

Plodda Falls

Plodda Falls is a 46 m waterfall in the Scottish Highlands, roughly 5 km south-west of the village of Tomich and close to Glen Affric. A viewing platform hangs out over the edge of the gorge, so you look straight down the whole drop. The site sits in woodland managed by Forestry and Land Scotland. Where is Plodda Falls? The Allt na Bodachan burn runs through the forest and plunges over a cliff shortly before it meets the Abhainn Deabhag. That river later joins the River Affric to form the River Glass. Tomich in Strathglass is the nearest village, which makes the falls an easy stop on a day exploring the Glen Affric area. How do you get there? You drive from Tomich along a narrow forest road to a Forestry and Land Scotland car park, about 3 miles from the village. No public transport reaches the start. Visitors describe the track as heavily potholed, so take it slowly, especially in a motorhome. What will you see? The highlight is the wooden platform above the cliff, built where an older Victorian lookout once stood. From it you see the water fall 46 m down a rock face. If heights make you uneasy, expect your stomach to notice: the falls are right under your feet. Tall mature trees around the gorge give the place the feel of a hidden forest canyon. Which walks start here? Two trails leave the car park, waymarked with green and white markers: Plodda Falls Trail is a short route of around half a mile, taking about 30 minutes, covering the falls and a stretch of forest. Tweedmouth Trail is a longer riverside walk of about 1.5 miles, passing some very large trees. Surfaces mix gravel, mud and grass, with a few stone steps and exposed roots that can trip you up, so wear shoes with decent grip. Some hikers also use the car park as a starting point for longer walks, for example towards Loch Affric. When should you visit? The falls look best after rain when the burn carries plenty of water, though paths are then at their slipperiest. Summer brings midges to the glen, autumn fills the woods with colour, and in winter you should check road and path conditions first, since ice makes the approach to the platform harder. Frequently asked questions How long does a visit take? The short trail to the platform and back takes around 30 minutes. Adding the riverside path can double or triple that. How high are the falls? They drop 46 m over a single rock face. Can you reach Plodda Falls by public transport? No. There is no bus service to the car park, so a car is the practical option from Tomich. Is it suitable for children? The distance is short, but the path is uneven and the platform overlooks a steep drop, so keep young children close.

Falls of Foyers

Foyers

Falls of Foyers is a pair of waterfalls on the River Foyers, beside the village of Foyers on the southern shore of Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands. The river drops through a deep wooded gorge, and viewpoints among the trees give you a look at both the upper and lower drops. What will you see at the Falls of Foyers? The river falls in two stages. The upper drop is about 14 m, while the lower one is much taller at roughly 30 m. Water plunges into a rocky basin hemmed in by trees, then runs on to Loch Ness, which it enters on the south-east side about halfway along the loch. The walking route has two viewing platforms, one higher up and one further down the slope. Why is the flow sometimes weaker than expected? A hydro-powered aluminium smelter was built at Foyers in the 1890s. The British Aluminium Company opened it in 1896 and it operated until 1967. The power scheme takes water from the river above the falls, so how much you see depends on the scheme and on recent weather. After heavy rain the falls are far more dramatic than in a dry spell, so plan your visit for a day or two after wet weather. What is the Robert Burns connection? People were already coming to admire the falls in the 1700s. Robert Burns visited in 1787 and wrote a poem about them, "Lines on the Fall of Fyers, near Loch Ness". The falls remain one of the best-known stops on the south side of the loch. What is the walk like? The path starts at the car park, crosses the road and heads down a wooded slope to the viewpoints. It is short, but the final stretch has steep steps, so the climb back up takes some effort. Beyond the lookouts the path follows the gorge through woodland and comes out by the road leading toward the lower bridge at Foyers. For a longer outing you can link the falls with a forest-track loop of about 7 km and 320 m of ascent, or with the longer route from Inverfarigaig. When should you visit? Come after rain, when the river carries plenty of water. In summer the leaf cover hides some of the views; early spring and autumn let in more light. Wear shoes with a good grip all year, since steps and paths are often wet. Frequently asked questions Where are the Falls of Foyers? In Foyers, on the south shore of Loch Ness in Highland, about halfway along the loch. How tall are the falls? The upper fall is around 14 m and the lower fall around 30 m. Is there always a lot of water? No. Part of the River Foyers is used for hydroelectric power, so the falls look modest after dry periods. Is the walk difficult? It is short and not technical, but the steps near the viewpoints are steep, so it is unsuitable for visitors with limited mobility.

Spout of Ballochleam

Spout of Ballochleam is a waterfall in the Stirling council area of central Scotland, tucked into the northern face of the Fintry Hills at the western end of the Campsie Fells. The Boquhan Burn tumbles down the scarp here, and the fall has become a favourite objective for walkers based around Kippen and Fintry. In March 2026 Scotways picked the route to it as its Heritage Path of the Month. Where is Spout of Ballochleam? The fall sits between the villages of Kippen and Fintry, on the hills above the Forth valley, at roughly 56.08° N, 4.17° W. It belongs to the Boquhan Burn rather than the Endrick Water, though the two streams run through the same area. Do not confuse it with the nearby Loup of Fintry, which is on the Endrick and has its own short approach. How high is it? The earliest description comes from the Ordnance Survey name books of 1858-61, which give about 90 feet (around 27 m) and call it the largest of several falls on the burn. That is a Victorian estimate, not a modern survey, so take it as a guide. The fall looks its best after rain, when the burn runs full. How do you get there? The classic approach starts at the Ballochleam road-end on Glinns Road. From there a farm track climbs beside the Boquhan Burn, through a gate and up the hillside. The spout only comes into view once you have gained most of the height, so keep going. Longer options are described too: From Kippen: mostly off-road, adding about 4 km. Stronend loop: the Walkhighlands route climbs Stronend (512 m), then follows the edge round to the fall. Returning the way you came saves around 3 km. Through to Cringate: the old hill route ends in the Carron Valley, roughly 8 km from Ballochleam. The access road is a narrow single-track lane with very few places to park. Arrive early and leave the car where it will not block passing traffic. When should you go? Pick a day after solid rainfall for the most water. The slope can be wet and muddy, so wear proper walking boots. Weather on the Campsie Fells changes quickly, so pack a waterproof layer. There are no visitor facilities on the route, and phone signal on the hills can be patchy. What else is nearby? The walk pairs well with an ascent of Stronend or a visit to Fintry, from where you can reach the Loup of Fintry (about 28.6 m in total height). The Fintry Hills offer open grassy ridges and views over the Forth valley. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee? No. It is a walk over open hill ground with no charge and no ticket office. How long does the walk take? The direct climb from Ballochleam is the shortest option, while the full Stronend loop takes several hours. Plan your time around the variant you choose. Is there parking? The approach road is narrow and spaces are scarce, so parking can be limited. Can you see the waterfall from the start? No. It only opens up once you have climbed most of the way up the slope.