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Places of interest

The Falls of Clyde

4.7 · 1,396 reviews
Quiet and wild woodland
The Falls of Clyde, 2 New Lanark Rd, Lanark ML11 9DB, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The Corra Linn waterfall inspired the poet William Wordsworth to compose his poem 'Composed at Cora Linn' in 1814.

2

The onsite hydro-electric power station was the first of its kind in Scotland to provide electricity to the public grid.

3

The site hosts a rare population of Daubenton’s bats, which forage along the river corridor.

4

The river gorge was carved through Carboniferous sandstone, exposing distinct geological layers.

5

The woodland area is categorized as a semi-natural ancient woodland, featuring sessile oak and ash trees.

Overview

The Falls of Clyde comprise four distinct waterfalls on the River Clyde, situated within a Scottish Wildlife Trust nature reserve. The sequence includes Corra Linn, Dundaff Linn, Bonnington Linn, and Stonebyres Linn, with Corra Linn being the most prominent at 26 meters in height. The site is part of a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and contains ancient woodland habitats. Peregrine falcons are known to nest on the cliff faces surrounding the falls. The walking paths provide access to both the industrial heritage of New Lanark and the natural gorge landscape. Water flow is regulated by a hydro-electric power station commissioned in 1927, which remains operational. The reserve supports a diverse population of badgers, otters, and kingfishers.

Photo spot

The viewing platform at the top of Corra Linn provides the most dramatic perspective of the waterfall's drop.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots as the woodland paths become extremely muddy after rainfall.

Bring binoculars for birdwatching, specifically to spot peregrine falcons near the cliff crags.

Download the site map before arriving, as cellular signal can be inconsistent deep within the gorge.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to scramble down the steep gorge banks to reach the water level, as the terrain is unstable and dangerous.

Good to know

The visitor center may have seasonal shifts in staffing, though the walking trails remain accessible year-round; check for occasional forestry management closures.

Etiquette

Keep dogs on a short lead to protect ground-nesting birds and local wildlife; stay strictly on marked paths.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Autumn, for the combination of seasonal foliage colors and increased river flow.
Address
The Falls of Clyde, 2 New Lanark Rd, Lanark ML11 9DB, United Kingdom
55.662, -3.780
Get directions
Details
WildlifePeregrine falcons, otters, and badgers
TerrainWooded river gorge with steep paths

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Autumn, for the combination of seasonal foliage colors and increased river flow..

The viewing platform at the top of Corra Linn provides the most dramatic perspective of the waterfall's drop.

Close by you'll find New Lanark, St Mary's Catholic Church, St Nicholas Church hall.