Steall Falls

With a single drop cascade of 120 metres, this waterfall was formed by two different glaciers melting and eroding the rockface during Scotland’s Ice Age over 10,000 years ago. For all the Harry Potter fans out there, you’ll probably recognise Steall Falls as the backdrop of various Quidditch matches and the Triwizard Tournament in the Goblet of Fire.

At 2.5 miles round trip, this is a fairly short walk for a big reward and is widely recognised as one of Scotland’s best short walks. The route takes you through a dramatic gorge before opening out into Steall Meadows, with views ahead to the spectacular waterfall.

Dogs will love the expanse of livestock-free meadows near the falls to run around and paddle in the water. Pack a picnic and it’s easy to while away a couple of hours by the waterfall admiring the views. If you’re feeling brave, try crossing the three-wire bridge suspended across the river!

Steall Falls can get busy at peak times and it’s not the biggest of car parks, so we’d suggest arriving early or late, if you can. Like many waterfall walks in Scotland, midges can be quite prevalent in the area so this is a probably a walk that’s best done outside of the summer months.

The going can be slippery in places with drops towards the gorge so it’s best to keep your dogs close or on leads through the gorge section of the walk before letting them run free in the meadows.

Good footwear is essential as the rocks in the gorge can get slippery. There’s no livestock on this walk but dogs should be under close control through the gorge as there are some very steep drops.

There are no opening hours as such, but daylight hours are definitely recommended.

Parking is free. The postcode – PH33 6SY – will get you to the correct place but it’s fairly easy to find, just keep driving on the road until you reach the dead end where the car park is located. It’s worth noting that there are no facilities or toilets at the car park.