The towering Douglas firs in the Hermitage include specimens planted as early as the mid-1700s.
Ossian’s Hall was originally constructed in 1757 as a 'pleasure house' for the 2nd Duke of Atholl.
The interior of Ossian’s Hall was restored in 2007 to replicate its 18th-century appearance, including hidden mirrors and paintings.
The site is named after the legendary Gaelic bard, Ossian, reflecting the 18th-century fascination with Romanticism and Celtic history.
The River Braan, which feeds the Black Linn Falls, originates from the moors of the south side of Glen Quaich.
William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy visited the Hermitage in 1803 during their tour of Scotland.
The woodland provides a habitat for red squirrels, ospreys, and salmon, the latter of which can be seen jumping the falls in autumn.
The Hermitage is a managed woodland reserve near Dunkeld, Scotland, known for the River Braan and the Black Linn Falls. The site features a collection of exceptionally tall Douglas firs, some of which were planted in the 18th century and rank among the tallest in the UK. Visitors follow a maintained path through the forest to reach Ossian’s Hall, an 18th-century folly originally built by the Dukes of Atholl. This structure overlooks the waterfall and incorporates interior mirrored panels and ornate decorations. The woodland is part of the larger Craigvinean Forest area. It serves as a prominent example of 18th-century romantic landscape design, intended to highlight the dramatic natural scenery. The site is maintained by the National Trust for Scotland and provides walking trails of varying lengths. It is situated within the Tay Forest Park, offering a mix of mature coniferous and deciduous tree species.
Inside the mirrored room of Ossian’s Hall, looking out toward the Black Linn Falls.
Wear waterproof footwear as the trails can become muddy, especially near the riverbank.
Follow the circular 'Braan Walk' to see the river from multiple vantage points beyond the main waterfall.
Check the National Trust for Scotland website before traveling to confirm trail conditions, as storm damage occasionally forces closures.
Trying to swim in the River Braan, as the currents near the falls and the deeper pools are extremely hazardous.
Open year-round, though specific paths may close temporarily for maintenance or storm damage clearance.
Keep dogs on leads due to livestock in nearby fields and wildlife protection; take all litter home.
