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15 Best Waterfalls to Visit Near Edinburgh [+ Local Tips!]
Nestled among the picturesque landscapes of Edinburgh and its surroundings are some of the most stunning waterfalls waiting to be explored. These natural wonders offer serene retreats, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.
My mates and I would often go exploring during the summer holidays, checking out new trails and discovering mesmerizing waterfalls. We’d often pack light, a sandwich or whatever the allowance of schoolgirls could afford, as we’d go on these adventures.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend adventure, these waterfalls are sure to leave you inspired and rejuvenated, so read on!
Calder Mill
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Address: Calder Street, Lochwinnoch, PA12 4DH
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 66 miles (106 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 90 minutes
Height: 274 meters (900 feet)
Parking: Free if you head to Castle Semple car park
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Barr Castle, Barr Loch, Castle Semple Loch, RSPB Center, La Dolce Vita, and The Brown Bull
Calder Mill is a captivating waterfall located next to a winding river. Standing just over 21 meters (70 feet) tall and spanning an impressive 274 meters (900 feet) in width, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view.
Situated just a stone’s throw from Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park and near the outskirts of Lochwinnoch village, it’s conveniently close to Glasgow.
Explore the ruins of the historic Calder Glen Mill to the north, and enjoy nearby dining options like La Dolce Vita and The Brown Bull.
Linhope Spout
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Address: Ingram, Alnwick, NE66 4LZ
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 77 miles (124 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 2 hours
Height: 18 meters (60 feet)
Parking: Free limited parking on the roadside
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Ingram Cafe
Linhope Spout, true to its name, is a gentle stream that cascades into a 6-foot pool below. It’s an ideal spot for jumping or swimming, particularly in the summertime, though it can get quite busy.
A reasonable level of fitness and agility is required to navigate the falls for a refreshing plunge. Having mentioned that, remember that the water is quite icy so be prepared with a warm change of clothes.
The area also offers flat terrains perfect for picnics, but be prepared for midges.
Pro Tip
While the route to Linhope Spout is merely 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers), the path’s terrain is stony and uneven, so be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes.
There are also many wandering sheep nearby so if you’re bringing your dog, ensure they’re on a lead.
Cramond Falls
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Address: River Almond Walk, Cramond, EH4 6DW
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 5 miles (8 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 15-20 minutes
Height: 1 meter (3 feet)
Parking: The car park at EH4 6NU is free
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Cramond Falls Cafe
Nestled along the picturesque River Almond Walkway, not far from Cramond Beach, you’ll find Cramond Falls. Though it measures just 1 meter (3 feet) in height, its charm rivals that of any grander waterfall.
The various routes leading to the falls are perfect for scenic walks and idyllic picnics. Nearby, the Cramond Falls Café offers visitors a delightful spot to enjoy hot coffee and fresh pastries.
Close to the falls, the historic ruins of Fair-a-Far Mill, which began as a waulkmill in 1676 then transformed into an ironworks forge by 1773, is also worth visiting.
Pro Tip
To ensure Google Maps directs you correctly, search for “River Almond Walkway” in your search bar.
Craigie Linn
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Address: The Glen Park, Paisley PA2 8BJ
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 60 miles (96 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 80-90 minutes
Height: 7 meters (23 feet)
Parking: Free at Glen Park car park
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Durrockstock Park, Glenburn Reservoir and Gleniffer Braes Country Park
Craigie Linn is a charming waterfall that gently trickles down to a small stream below, nestled in the beautiful Gleniffer Braes Country Park, near Glasgow.
Visitors can explore numerous trails around the falls, leading to reservoirs and enchanting woodlands.
Alternatively, you can simply bask in the tranquil beauty of the falls. With a modest 7-meter drop, the water flows peacefully, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Pro Tip
Craigie Linn is best visited after rainfall when its small pool is at its fullest. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as the pathway can become muddy and slippery.
Grey Mares Tail
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Address: Grey Mares Tail Nature Reserve, Moffat Water Valley, Moffat
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 50 miles (80 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 90 minutes
Height: 60 meters (196 feet)
Parking: The car park is on the right side of the main road and costs £3 for an all-day ticket
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Grey Mares Nature Reserve, Loch Skeen,
One of the most visited waterfalls in the UK, the Grey Mare’s Tail boasts an impressive 60 meters (196 feet).
Although the 20-minute climb can be quite challenging, the dramatic pathway leading to this magnificent waterfall is well worth the effort. Unlike other falls, it features several small pools rather than a steady stream, adding to its unique charm.
Here’s a fun fact: Grey Mare’s Tail is part of the Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve, situated halfway between the Scottish Border towns of Moffat and Peebles.
Pro Tip
Start your hike early in the day to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. This also gives you ample time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
Inversnaid Waterfall (Arklet Falls)
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Address: Inversnaid FallsStirling FK8 3TU
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 70 miles (113 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 2 hours
Height: 10 meters (33 feet) to 15 meters (49 feet)
Parking: Free at the Inversnaid Upper car park
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: The Great Trossachs Path, Loch Arklet, and Loch Katrine
With water cascading directly into the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, Inversnaid Waterfall, sometimes called Arklet Falls, is often overlooked despite being one of the most scenic waterfalls near Edinburgh.
Located in the tranquil hamlet of Inversnaid, this beautiful spectacle even inspired the “Inversnaid” poem by 19th-century poet Gerard Manley Hopkins.
Visitors can enjoy the fantastic view, swim in the pool below, or have a picnic in the surrounding area. Afterward, they can explore the settlement of Inversnaid or visit other nearby lochs like Loch Arklet and Loch Katrine.
Pro Tip
You’ll see a ton of animals along the path to the falls so be prepared for some wildlife watching by bringing a pair of binoculars and a camera with a good lens.
Reekie Linn Waterfall
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Address: Alyth, Blairgowrie PH11 8HW
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 70 miles (113 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 100-110 minutes
Height: 25 meters (79 feet)
Parking: Free at the Reekie Linn Waterfall car park
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Towns of Blairgowrie and Rattray
As one of the most popular waterfalls in Scotland, Reekie Linn Waterfall lives up to its reputation with powerful, thunderous roars and a smoky mist of sprays.
The name “Reekie Linn” reflects its nature—’reekie’ means smoke or mist, and ‘linn’ is Gaelic for a deep or dark pool.
The River Isla first drops over a 6-meter-high upper fall before cascading down an 18-meter-high lower section, with the pool below being about 30 meters (99 feet) deep.
Pro Tip
While the trek to Reekie Linn Waterfall is easy and short, be cautious of the numerous large roots along the path.
Also, the gorge is quite deep, so if you’re traveling with young children or pets, it’s best to keep a close eye on them and keep them on a lead.
Black Linn Waterfall
Address: Dunkeld PH8 0DX
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 60 miles (96 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 70-80 minutes
Height: 80 meters (262 feet)
Parking: £3 per day at the Hermitage Car Park
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Tay Forest Park and Loch of the Lowes
The Black Linn Waterfall is made up of three mini falls side by side, creating a powerful and impressive sight. However, due to its strength, swimming in the pools below is not advisable, as the currents can be dangerous.
Located in the southern part of Tay Forest Park, the falls can be reached via a wooded trail from the Hermitage Car Park, known as the Hermitage Woodland Walk. This is the only route to the falls.
Pro Tip
There’s a viewing platform called the Ossian’s Hall of Mirrors built precariously above the falls providing an unobstructed view of the majestic Black Linn Waterfall.
Campsie Waterfall
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Address: Crow Rd, Glasgow G66 7AB
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 48 miles (77 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 70-80 minutes
Height: 29 meters (94 feet)
Parking: Free at the Campsie Glen Waterfall car park
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Holehead and Pots of Gartness
The Campsie Waterfall consists of several falls, both large and small, creating picturesque pools that attract many visitors, especially during the summer months.
Be sure to bring your swimming gear to take a refreshing dip in the pools. Additionally, pack a hearty picnic to enjoy afterward amidst the beautiful surroundings.
For those up for a bit of adventure, we recommend hiking to the summit for breathtaking views of the woodlands.
Pro Tip
While the path to Campsie Waterfall is mostly gravel and quite an easy trek, the second leg to the summit is steep in some places and may require proper footwear.
Linhope Spout
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Address: Ingram, Alnwick NE66 4LZ
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 77 miles (124 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 2 hours
Height: 60 feet (18m)
Parking: Free
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Hedgehope Hill and Northumberland Hills
If you’re up for a little road trip, consider adding Linhope Spout to your list. This impressive chute stands at 60 feet (18 meters) high, with water cascading into a plunge pool that’s 6 feet (2 meters) wide and 16 feet (5 meters) deep.
The trek to the falls is a manageable 3.21 miles, and taking a dip in the pool is especially refreshing during the warmer months.
Additionally, keep an eye out for red squirrels, which are frequent visitors to the area. If you don’t spot any squirrels, you might find their Scots Pine cones scattered on the forest floor.
Pro Tip
Dogs are welcome on the trail to Linhope Spout, provided they are kept on leads. However, please note that the route crosses Open Access land where the landowner has implemented a dog restriction.
The Water of Leith Walkway
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Address: Dean Path, EH4 3AY
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 10 minutes
Height: N/A
Parking: Nearby-to-Dean-Street on-street parking for between £2.50 and £5 per hour
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Stockbridge Sunday Market and Dean Village
The Water of Leith Walkway features a picturesque multi-tiered waterfall, stretching from the village of Balerno to the dockside suburb of Leith in Edinburgh. This scenic walk offers stunning views of both the city center and its outskirts.
The charming 12-mile (19-kilometer) route includes a particularly lovely 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) section from Murrayfield to Stockbridge in Dean Village. You can start your walk at any point along the walkway, as the entire path is filled with beautiful scenery.
Pro Tip
The walkway is also a popular biking trail, so we highly recommend bringing your bike to enjoy the ride.
Stichill Linn
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Address: Stichill, Kelso TD5 7TB
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 43 miles (69 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 70 minutes
Height: 12 meters (40 feet)
Parking: Free
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Telephone Box Gallery and Eden Water
Just an hour south of Edinburgh tucked away in the sleepy village of Stichill is a secret waterfall. A closely-kept secret, the Stichill Linn waterfall stands at 12 meters (40 feet) and pours into a gentle pool.
Since it’s located near the border of Kelso, there’s a 2.6-km out-and-back trail that just takes 40 minutes to complete. Visitors will be able to see varying wildlife while enjoying the cool breeze and scenery.
Pro Tip
The trail can become quite muddy, especially during the rainy season, so it’s a good idea to check the local weather forecast and your calendar beforehand to avoid any disappointment.
Bilsdean Waterfall
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Address: Bilsdean, Cockburnspath TD13 5XF
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 35.3 miles (57 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 48 minutes
Height: 80 meters (262 feet)
Parking: Free parking just under an arch of the railway viaduct from the old A1
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Dunglass gorge and John Muir Link path
What sets the Bilsdean Waterfall apart from the others on this list isn’t the extravagant roar of gushing water. On the contrary, the water gently pours into a serene pool below.
The true beauty of these falls lies in their enchanting atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery that makes it feel like something out of a fairy tale. This is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Pro Tip
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, we definitely recommend visiting the John Muir Link path to see the shingle beach.
Linn Jaw Falls
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Address (starting point): Morton ReservoirEH53 0JT
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 15.5 miles (25 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 45 minutes
Height: 20 meters (66 feet)
Parking: Parking at the Morton Reservoir requires a fee during peak hours
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Morton Reservoir
The Linn Jaw Falls is hands down one of the most unrealistic waterfalls because of how majestic it looks. However, be warned that it’s also one of the hardest to get to (we’re not kidding!).
After the bridge leading to the falls had been taken down, the only route is through a road by the end of the Morton Reservoir. Note that this is also where you can park your car.
Then, it’s time to hit the dirt track until you see the river leading up to the waterfall. Rest assured that the trip will definitely be worth it!
Pro Tip
Because the route to Linn Jaw Falls is quite a trek, it is strongly advisable that you wear proper footwear such as hiking shoes or, at the very least, some wellies as the pathway tends to get very muddy when rained on.
Loup of Fintry
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Address: B818, Glasgow G63 0
Distance (from central Edinburgh): 43.6 miles (70 kilometers)
Driving time (from central Edinburgh): 80 minutes
Height: 26 meters (94 feet)
Parking: There’s a small layby area with free but limited parking
Nearby Attractions/Hiking Trails: Carron Valley Reservoir and Carron Forest
Just 5 to 10 minutes from your parking spot, you’ll find the stunning Loup of Fintry—talk about convenient access! This makes it an ideal spot for a quick visit or a refreshing dip.
Regarded as one of the most scenic locations in the central belt, the Loup of Fintry is particularly impressive after rainfall, when the pool is at its fullest.
Despite the many photos circulating online, experiencing the falls in person is truly incomparable.
Pro Tip
However, be wary as the pathway is quite muddy and narrow, so it can be difficult to navigate. There’s also a ton of overgrowth, so we don’t recommend wearing shorts.
