Ayrshire is home to many beauty spots and stunning hidden gems. Although it’s not known for its waterfalls, Ayrshire has several scattered throughout the county, some with pools that you can even swim in. If you know where to find these hidden gems, they offer a great family walk and unforgettable day out.
These walks are great all year round, especially in the wetter months when the waterfalls are at their most spectacular. Put on your walking boots, take a picnic and get outdoors to enjoy the abundant beauty that Ayrshire has to offer.
Read on for the best waterfalls in Ayrshire.
The Best Waterfalls in Ayrshire
North Ayrshire Waterfalls
Lynn Glen, Dalry
Lynn Falls is tucked away in the wooded gorge of Lynn Glen, on the outskirts of Dalry. Enjoy this short circular route which is ideal for the whole family, along the scenic paths that follow Caaf Water. Explore the woods, paddle in the burn and discover the Lynn Spout waterfall and surrounding cascades of water.
Parking: Small car park at Lynn Bridge (KA24 4JT)
Walk: Easy
READ MORE: Lynn Falls Walk
Greeto Falls, Largs
Greeto Falls are near the town of Largs, situated in the Gogo Glen. To find the falls, follow the Greeto Bridge Walk from Largs. There are a few trails to choose from and it’s a popular walk for families and a great spot for a picnic. There are great views over the Clyde and surrounding islands from the summit.
Parking: Small car park near the bridge (KA30 9EF)
Walk: Moderate (steep in places)
The Cascade, Kelburn Estate, Fairlie
Kelburn Castle and Country Park is a brilliant place for families to explore. The grounds have a few walking trails where you can discover a beautiful glen with a waterfall which cascades 20 feet into a spectacular grotto surrounded on three sides by overhanging cliffs. In the spring, the area by the bridge is covered with snowdrops all up the banks.
Besides the waterfall, there is a children’s play area, the graffiti castle, secret forest and gardens to discover. There is also alpaca and goat experiences (at an extra cost). Cafe and shop on site too.
Parking: Kelburn Estate (KA29 0BE) payable
Walk: Easy
Fairlie Glen Waterfalls
There are several waterfalls in Fairlie Glen and it’s an easy linear walk from Fairlie Railway Station just outside of Largs. Although it’s all uphill to the falls you will pass the remains of Fairlie Castle and the views from here are spectacular over to Arran, Millport and beyond. There is a small pool for a cold water dip, picturesque cascades plus a rope swing on route that the kids will enjoy.
Parking: Fairlie Railway Station (Station Road, KA29 0DX)
Walk: Easy/Moderate
What is the highest waterfall in Ayrshire?
Spout of Garnock
The Spout of Garnock is the highest waterfall in Ayrshire. At around 60–70 ft high it’s the counties highest waterfall and is located in Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park near Kilbirnie. It’s a moderately challenging route and from Kilbirnie is about a 7.5 mile walk each way .
East Ayrshire Waterfall
Dalcairney Falls
This impressive waterfall is off the beaten track not far from Doon Bridge in Dalmellington (15 miles from Ayr). The falls are especially impressive after rain and you can hear the noise from the waterfall before you see it as it echoes around the gorge. There are some great walking routes in this area which also include nearby scenic spots such as Loch Doon and Ness Glen.
The walking distance to Dalcairney Falls depends where you park.
Parking: Tiny layby next to the falls for 1 or 2 cars (KA6 7QB) which involves driving along a bumpy track; or at the Dalmellington Community Centre (KA6 7SJ (2.2 mile walk each way)
Walk: Easy, muddy in places
South Ayrshire Waterfall
Tairlaw Linn
Tairlaw Linn is a spectacular waterfall near Straiton in South Ayrshire. There are several smaller waterfalls before a taller waterfall – which drops into a deep plunge pool below. You can take a short walk from the village to the falls of Tairlaw Linn, the first of a set of waterfalls on the Water of Girvan, close to Tairlaw Farm.
If you want to explore more of this area, there are several trails from the village of Straiton around the beautiful countryside surrounding the village, so you can enjoy stunning views of the Ayrshire hills, the monument dedicated to Sir William Wallace, or the ruins of the Castle of Knockdon.
Parking: Straiton Village
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