Unmissable Waterfall and Scenic Walks in the South of Scotland

When it comes to walking in Scotland, many people’s minds drift to imposing peaks. But the varied landscapes of the South of Scotland hold their own unique charm. Here, dramatic coastlines give way to softly rolling hills, while hills steeped in ancient stories gently rise above our forests and rivers. It’s a play of contrast, with unexpected views just around the next turn.

In Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders, rivers and lochs have shaped our communities over centuries. So it’s no wonder that cascading waterfalls and softly bubbling streams each with their own story draw us into the outdoors. If you’re looking for that uniquely South of Scotland blend of rural charm and unexpected vistas, we have selected some local highlights for you.

Before you head out: Make sure you’re prepared and stay safe in the outdoors. Familiarise yourself with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. It ensures that everyone can get the most out of their time here, while caring for the people and places they encounter along the way.

NTS Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve

An iconic hike in the South of Scotland

Home to the UK’s fifth-tallest waterfall, this NTS nature reserve is a true gem of the Southern Uplands. The namesake Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall plunges 60m into the valley below, with a variety of walking routes letting you discover its magic.

There’s an easy five-minute stroll to a viewing platform from the car park, but the real magic lies far above. The steep linear path up the gorge takes walkers past the waterfall, up to Loch Skeen, the highest loch in the Southern Uplands.

The nature reserve is also a haven for wildlife. Look out for peregrine falcons and wild goats along the way.

Blackburn Falls near Newcastleton

A secluded walk in the Liddesdale Hills

Head out into the hills for this varied trek that takes you across the hills and moorlands around Newcastleton in the Scottish Borders. Starting in the village itself, the route heads along the riverside of the Liddel Water and up Hog Gill, where the landscape opens up to vast views. The stunning finish of the route is at the hidden Blackburn Falls, the confluence of several small burns tucked into the hillside.

This secluded, linear route in the Liddesdale Hills is particularly lovely on a clear day, when you can enjoy the wide-ranging views across the area.

Ring of St Mary’s Loch

A walk shaped by local legends

This 11km circuit around the Scottish Borders’ largest natural loch is a particularly scenic walk with centuries of local legends to discover along the way. Starting at the James Hogg Monument, the route joins a stretch of the Southern Upland Way, leading past the iconic Tibbie Shiels’ Inn and the lochside sailing club.

As you wander the southern shore, the landscape seems to speak. Look out for the stones in March Wood carved with local poetry, as well as the shoreline sculptures at Shinglehook. For views from higher ground, take the short diversion to Dryhope Tower, a former Reiver stronghold. From here, you can survey the valley like a 16th-century Laird.

The walk climbs further onto an ancient Drove Road to the ruins of St Mary’s Kirkyard. It’s a peaceful evocative spot, with the bubble of nearby streams as they make their way to meet the loch.

Crichope Linn

A forgotten Victorian beauty spot

Please note: Take care if you want to explore. There are steep drops and the paths are not maintained. In wet weather the tracks can get slippery, and so are best suited for sure-footed walkers.

Located just north of Thornhill, Crichope Linn is a place that feels like it belongs in a fantasy novel. Once a popular Victorian beauty spot, it is now a quiet, moss-covered ravine where nature slowly reclaims the paths.

Signposted form the main road, the path takes you to a small set of signed steps that lead along the banks of Crichope Burn, past massive red sanstone outcrops. The valley soon deepens into a deep gorge, with steep cliffs and a natural arch. It served as a 17th-century hiding spot for Covenanters and later inspired poet Robert Burns and novelist Sir Walter Scott. With its lush greenery it’s easy to see why locals once believed elves lived here.

Grey Mare’s Tail & Murray’s Monument

A short walk with stunning views

Dumfries & Galloway is home to more than one Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall and both are great for spending a day out in our stunning landscapes. In contrast to it’s imposing namesake near Moffat, this waterfall is nestled deep in the Galloway Forest Park amid lush greenery.

Starting from Talnotry car park, a signposted trail leads on a steep but rewarding climb to Murray’s Monument. From the monument’s base, you can enjoy vast views across the Palnure Valley and the rugged slopes of Cairnsmore of Fleet.

As you continue on the trail, you follow a section of the Old Edinburgh Road, once used by pilgrims bound for Whithorn. The trail then turns, following along the Grey Mare’s Tail Burn before reaching a stunning view of the waterfall.

Rosie’s Waterfall and Black Loch

A walk full of unexpected vistas and art installations

For a different perspective on the waters of the Galloway Forest Park, begin your journey at Black Loch. This stunning location serves as the perfect starting point for a walk toward the captivating Rosie’s Waterfall. By following the burn from here, you’ll connect back to the Grey Mare’s Tail mentioned earlier. It’s a fantastic a day out filled with the South’s most impressive cascades and quiet, hidden corners.

Park at Black Loch car park and take the time to wander the trails along the loch. The imposing 8 metre high conical sculpture beside the loch is called The Eye, one of many unusual art installations in the forest park. You can follow the gravel path past the loch and the sculpture, then turn right along Grey Mare’s Tail Burn. Take care, the path can get muddy and appropriate footwear is essential.

Mare’s Braids at RSPB Mersehead

A gem only accessible at low tide

Please note: This walk is only accessible when the tide is out so you must check the tide times before going. The tides in this area move quickly, and you may get trapped. 

Explore the Solway Coast’s saltmarshes and wildlife on an exploration of RSPB Mersehead. With several waymarked routes through the unique landscape of the ‘merse’, the traditional Scottish name for saltmarshes, there is plenty to discover. The Mare’s Braids Waterfall, also known as Back Burn, is one of many stunning sites.

The walk starts with the woodland path through Heugh Wood, taking you past natural rock formations that serve as the gateway to the shore. The landscape then opens up onto the saltmarshes with their spectacular views across the water to Cumbria. Though the path continues, the tides create muddy gaps and small streams, so be prepared! Keep following along the shoreline and you will soon reach the small but might waterfall.

Routin’ Brig

An accessible waterfall with a mysterious story

Tucked away near the small village of Irongray in Dumfries & Galloway, the Routin’ Brig‘s history stretches all the way back to the ‘Killing Times’. In the 17th century, the brig – or bridge – was the site of many a Covenanter being captured and killed.

Today, the roar of the waterfall below and the paths through nearby Dalquhairn Woods also evoke the mysterious local folklore tied to the scene: This was reputedly a meeting place for witches’ covens.

The waterfall can be viewed from the road, making it easily accessible but the local woodland trails are worth an exploration too. Follow along the Cairn Water that tumbles down the falls and take in the broadleaf woodlands as they change with the seasons.

Loch Trool Circular

Often cited as one of the most scenic walks in the South of Scotland, the Loch Trool Circular takes you through forests, past small waterfalls, and to the site of a legendary victory.

The 8.5km loop follows a portion of the Southern Upland Way along the steep southern bank of the loch, with stunning views of the Merrick – the highest peak in the region. The remnants of the ancient woodlands once covered the entire valley and are home to a variety of local wildlife.

Near the head of the loch, you will cross the site of the Battle of Trool, now commemorated by Bruce’s Stone. It was here that Robert the Bruce and his men won a decisive victory over the English army in 1307.

Corbie Linn and the Three Brethren

One of the most famous landmarks near Selkirk

The walk to the Three Brethren begins at Philiphaugh Estate’s Corbie Linn – Crow Waterfall in Scots – car park. The gentle track takes you through a foresty stretch, with glimpses of the waterfall between the trees. Keep an eye out for it as you walk.

As you leave the forest, the countryside opens up to hill views and heather-clad moors. The cairns soon appear in the distance. The three massive stone cairns mark the meeting point of three historic estates, with sweeping views over the surrounding landscape.