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Places of interest

Falls of Dochart

4.7 · 782 reviews
Powerful and scenic
Falls of Dochart, Killin FK21 8XE, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The island of Inishbuie features burial stones dating back to the 18th century belonging to the MacNab clan chieftains.

2

The bridge crossing the falls is an iconic example of 19th-century civil engineering by Thomas Telford.

3

During high water levels, the river can transform from a series of cascades into a singular, powerful torrent that covers lower rock formations.

4

The falls are a significant feature of the river system that marks the gateway to the Breadalbane region.

5

The geology of the falls consists of metamorphic rock types that have been shaped by glacial activity and subsequent river erosion.

Overview

The Falls of Dochart are a series of cascading rapids located on the River Dochart in the village of Killin. The falls are characterized by multiple rocky islands and a powerful flow that intensifies during periods of high rainfall. The main bridge, designed by Thomas Telford and completed in 1836, provides the primary vantage point over the turbulent water. The island of Inishbuie, located within the falls, serves as the ancestral burial ground for the Clan MacNab. The river system feeds into the western end of Loch Tay. The surrounding landscape features jagged rock formations that bisect the river channel. Visitors access the site directly from the A827 road bridge. The area remains an open-access public landmark.

Photo spot

From the pedestrian walkway of the main stone bridge looking upstream toward the Clan MacNab burial ground.

Insider tips

Stay on the designated footpaths as the wet rocks surrounding the river are extremely slippery and dangerous.

Visit during or shortly after a heavy rainfall to see the falls at their most powerful.

Cross the bridge for views on both sides, as the perspective changes significantly from each bank.

What to avoid

Attempting to walk onto the exposed rock islands during heavy rain, as water levels can rise rapidly and unexpectedly.

Etiquette

Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear; climbing on the wet, moss-covered rocks is prohibited for safety reasons.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
30-45 minutes
Best time to visit
Early morning or late evening in autumn or spring for dramatic lighting and fewer crowds.
Address
Falls of Dochart, Killin FK21 8XE, United Kingdom
56.462, -4.321
Get directions
Details
Geological FeatureCascading river rapids with exposed metamorphic rock islands
Cultural HeritageInishbuie burial site of Clan MacNab

Frequently asked

Plan for about 30-45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning or late evening in autumn or spring for dramatic lighting and fewer crowds..

From the pedestrian walkway of the main stone bridge looking upstream toward the Clan MacNab burial ground.

Close by you'll find Finlarig Castle, Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve Office (National Trust for Scotland), Clan Macnab Burial Grounds.