Hermitage Museum
A magical woodland walk in Scotland with towering trees, a dramatic waterfall, and the picturesque Ossian's Hall folly.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Hermitage Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical woodland walk in Scotland with towering trees, a dramatic waterfall, and the picturesque Ossian's Hall folly.
"Absolutely wonderful place. The waterfall is stunning and surrounding forest is gorgeous!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be wet, muddy, and slippery, especially near the falls. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is a must!
🗺️ Use a Trail App
Trails can be confusing. AllTrails or similar apps are recommended for navigating the various paths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ossian's Hall
Overlooking the Black Linn Falls
A picturesque folly offering stunning views of the powerful waterfall and surrounding ancient forest.
Black Linn Falls
Central to the Hermitage walk
A dramatic and beautiful waterfall cascading through the woodland, a true highlight of the area.
Giant Douglas Firs
Throughout the forest
Marvel at some of the tallest trees in Britain, creating an awe-inspiring, ancient woodland atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nature
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be wet, muddy, and slippery, especially near the falls. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is a must!
🗺️ Use a Trail App
Trails can be confusing. AllTrails or similar apps are recommended for navigating the various paths.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is usually sufficient, but can fill up during peak times. Arrive early for the best chance.
🍩 Don't Skip the Doughnuts!
The food van in the car park offers delicious doughnuts that are highly recommended by visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be wet, muddy, and slippery, especially near the falls. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is a must!
🗺️ Use a Trail App
Trails can be confusing. AllTrails or similar apps are recommended for navigating the various paths.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is usually sufficient, but can fill up during peak times. Arrive early for the best chance.
🍩 Don't Skip the Doughnuts!
The food van in the car park offers delicious doughnuts that are highly recommended by visitors.
🐿️ Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for resident beavers and squirrels, and you might even spot some interesting mushrooms!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Hermitage, calling it a 'lovely place' and 'absolutely wonderful.' The stunning waterfall and gorgeous, ancient forest are consistently praised. While some note paths can be wet and muddy, the overall experience is described as magical and well worth the visit, with many recommending the delicious doughnuts from the car park van.
"Lovely place to visit for a walk. Amazing waterfalls and bridges. Some easy access paths for bikes and wheelchairs as well as more tricky paths. Very interesting and some great way marked tracks to follow from short to many miles !"
Matt Hart
"Absolutely wonderful place. The waterfall is stunning and surrounding forest is gorgeous!
Advisable to wear study and comfortable shoes as it can be very wet, muddy and slippery. There’s a public restroom and a small food truck/shop. Sufficient car park space. The observatory has a good view of the waterfall. Can spot lots of mushrooms :)"
Lauren Debra
"Well worth the visit if in the area. Beautiful place! Easy walk with a beautiful waterfall at the end. Can keep going to make a large loop and hike up to Pinecone Point. AllTrails isn’t a bad idea as the trails can be a bit confusing."
Michal Brichacek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hermitage is located near Dunkeld in Perthshire, Scotland. It's easily accessible by car, with a dedicated car park. For public transport, you can take a train to Dunkeld & Birnam station and then it's a walk or short taxi ride to the site.
Yes, there is a car park available. It can get busy during peak times, so arriving early is advisable for the best chance of securing a spot.
Yes, some of the paths are suitable for bikes, offering an alternative way to explore the forest.
There are some easy access paths suitable for wheelchairs and bikes, though some of the more natural trails can be trickier.
The charming town of Dunkeld is very close to The Hermitage and is worth exploring for its shops and amenities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Hermitage is a National Trust for Scotland site and generally offers free entry to the woodland and trails. Donations are welcome to help maintain the site.
The woodland is typically open year-round from dawn till dusk, allowing for flexible visiting times.
Entry to The Hermitage itself is free. However, parking may have a charge or be managed by the National Trust for Scotland.
Dogs are welcome at The Hermitage, but it's important to keep them under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors.
Restroom facilities can be limited directly at The Hermitage. It's advisable to check the latest information or use facilities in nearby Dunkeld.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
The Hermitage features the stunning Black Linn Falls, the picturesque folly of Ossian's Hall, and ancient, towering Douglas fir trees. It's a beautiful woodland walk.
A typical walk to the waterfall and back can take around 1-2 hours, but you can extend your visit by exploring longer loops, like up to Pinecone Point.
The trails are generally well-marked and groomed, making it easy to follow the main routes. However, using a navigation app is still recommended for longer or less-traveled paths. +1
You might spot resident beavers and squirrels. The forest is also known for its diverse birdlife and fungi, especially in autumn.
While the waterfall is beautiful, the surrounding rocks and paths can be very wet, muddy, and slippery. Exercise caution and stay on marked paths.
📸 📸 Photography
Ossian's Hall offers iconic views of the waterfall. The towering trees and moss-covered paths also provide fantastic photographic opportunities.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the magical atmosphere of the forest.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks and protected areas. It's best to check with the National Trust for Scotland or local authorities before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the trees and the waterfall. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on wet surfaces.
Don't miss capturing the dramatic cascade of Black Linn Falls from Ossian's Hall, and the sheer scale of the ancient Douglas firs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities can be limited. Wear waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes, as the forest can get damp. Consider a shorter loop for very young children and always supervise them closely, especially near the water. The doughnuts from the car park van are also a guaranteed win!
🚶♀️ Nature Walk Enthusiasts
Recommendations: Bring a good pair of walking boots, as the terrain can be challenging. Consider downloading an offline map or using a navigation app to explore the less-trodden paths. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
📸 Photographers
Photography tips: Visit during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the scale of the trees and the waterfall. Be prepared for damp conditions and potential spray from the falls.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Woodland
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as serene and awe-inspiring. The well-maintained paths allow you to wander through different sections of the forest, discovering hidden nooks and crannies. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and appreciate the grandeur of nature.
Keep an eye out for the resident wildlife, including squirrels and potentially beavers. The forest is also a haven for various bird species, adding to the rich biodiversity of the area.
Black Linn Falls and Ossian's Hall
Perched above the falls is Ossian's Hall, a picturesque 18th-century folly. This charming structure offers a perfect vantage point to admire the waterfall and the surrounding gorge. It's an ideal spot for photography and for simply pausing to soak in the breathtaking scenery.
Be prepared for the spray from the waterfall, especially on busier days. The paths leading to and around the falls can be wet and slippery, so sturdy footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit.
Navigating the Trails
For those seeking a longer adventure, there are options to create loops that extend your walk. Some visitors recommend using navigation apps like AllTrails as the trail network can become a bit confusing, especially if you venture off the most popular routes.
Remember that the terrain can be uneven, muddy, and slippery, particularly after rain. Always wear appropriate footwear and be mindful of your surroundings to ensure a safe and pleasant hiking experience.
Social
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