The best walks and hikes around Bracklin
4.8
(3)
40
hikers
Hikes around Bracklin are characterized by woodland paths and lakeside scenery. The area features routes that explore historic sites such as Necarne Castle and Old Castle Archdale. The terrain is generally low-lying with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for a wide range of walkers.
Best hiking trails around Bracklin
- The most popular hiking route is Old Castle Archdale Ruins – View of Tom's Island loop from Lisnarrick, a 4.5 mile (7.3 km) trail that takes about 1 hour…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
4.61km
01:12
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
8
hikers
5.20km
01:22
40m
40m
Hike an easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) trail through Necarne Woods and past the historic Necarne Castle, perfect for a relaxing walk.
Sign up for free
8
hikers
3.04km
00:48
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Bracklin
Tips from the Community
Head South down the lane to find Necarne Castle. Also known as Castle Irvine, Necarne Castle was built in the 17th century as part of the plantation of Ulster. In 1831, Irish novelist and playwright John B. Keane designed the beautiful two-storey facade which gives the castle its Victorian image. The castle passed through the hands of various owners before being requisitioned by the United Stats army in 1941. It functioned as a military hospital during the Second World War before falling into ruin. Over the last decades, the castle was used by Enniskillen Agricultural College. However, it now stands empty once again and is up for sale. You can't visit the interior of the castle, but you can freely visit the lovely parklands and admire the building from afar.
0
0
Beautiful views over Lough Erne toward Tom's Island. Tom's Island is actually no longer an island, but once was before the lough was lowered.
2
0
Old Castle Archdale is situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The castle was built in the 1600s and was the main castle on this former estate before its successor took it's place in the 1800s, Castle Archdale.
2
0
Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop. It is named 'old' to distinguish it from its successor, the 18th century Castle Archdale. The castle was built by an Englishman from Suffolk who had been granted the estate in 1612 after paying 5 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence for the 1000 acres of land. During the Irish Rebellion of 1641 the castle was captured by Rory Maguire as part of the uprising to retake his lands that had been lost in 1607. The heir to the castle was saved by his nurse however the other children were killed. After the castle was returned to the family it was repaired and lived in until 1689. The castle saw its end during the Williamite Wars when the castle was burnt out and abandoned.
1
0
The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
1
1
Also known as Castle Irvine, Necarne Castle was built in the 17th century as part of the plantation of Ulster. In 1831, Irish novelist and playwright John B. Keane designed the beautiful two-storey facade which gives the castle its Victorian image. The castle passed through the hands of various owners before being requisitioned by the United Stats army in 1941. It functioned as a military hospital during the Second World War before falling into ruin. Over the last decades, the castle was used by Enniskillen Agricultural College. However, it now stands empty once again and is up for sale. You can't visit the interior of the castle, but you can freely visit the lovely parklands and admire the building from afar.
1
0
Perched atop a cliff and surrounded by thick forest, it's easy to imagine how life would have been hundreds of years ago as you wander the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale. Built in 1615 by Englishman John Archdale, the castle was captured by the Irish in the Irish Rebellion of 1641. The castle was inhabited until 1689, when it was destroyed by fire and abandoned.
0
0
The Necarne Castle equestrian park includes 200 acres of mixed use land. The walk through these woods features good gravel trails with low grades in a boggy woodland. Continuing will take you through pasture to the castle itself.
4
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Bracklinn Falls suitable for dogs?
Yes, the trails around Bracklinn Falls are generally dog-friendly. The woodland paths offer great walking for dogs, but it's recommended to keep them on a lead, especially near the gorge and any livestock in surrounding fields. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet to keep the area beautiful for everyone.
What are the parking options for visiting Bracklinn Falls?
There is a dedicated car park, the Bracklinn Falls Car Park, located at the start of the main trail. It is relatively small and can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends and during peak season. The access road is also narrow and steep. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a space.
Are there any family-friendly walks at Bracklinn Falls?
The Glen Trail is an excellent choice for families. It's a gentler 3-mile (5 km) route through tranquil woodlands, offering a more relaxed pace and opportunities for wildlife spotting. While the main Bracklinn Falls Circuit is popular, some sections can be uneven, so it's best suited for families with older children or those comfortable with varied terrain.
How difficult is the main Bracklinn Falls circular walk?
The Bracklinn Falls Circuit is considered a moderate walk. It's about 3.5 miles (5.3 km) long and involves some uneven paths and gentle inclines. Sturdy footwear is essential. While not overly strenuous for regular walkers, it requires a reasonable level of fitness to comfortably complete the loop.
Can I get to Bracklinn Falls using public transport?
The nearest town with public transport links is Callander. From there, it's a walk of over a mile, partly uphill, to reach the Bracklinn Falls car park and trailhead. While possible, you should factor this extra distance and time into your hiking plans.
What are the main scenic features of the walks?
The primary highlight is the series of powerful waterfalls plunging into a rocky gorge, best viewed from the modern Bracklinn Falls Bridge. The trails also guide you through lush, varied woodlands with tall pines and offer expansive views of the surrounding mountains, including Ben Ledi, especially on the upper sections of the circular routes.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available?
Yes, for a more demanding trek, you can take the route that combines the falls with an ascent to the Callander Crags. This 4.3-mile (7 km) hike rewards you with panoramic views over Callander. Another option is the 6.2-mile (10 km) circular walk via the historic Keltie Bridge, which offers a mix of forest paths and open countryside.
What should I wear for a hike at Bracklinn Falls?
Sturdy, waterproof footwear with good grip is highly recommended. The paths can be uneven, rocky, and muddy, especially after rain. It's also wise to wear layered clothing and bring a waterproof jacket, as the weather in the Trossachs can change quickly.
Are there any pubs or cafes near the trail?
There are no facilities directly at the trailhead or along the walks. However, the nearby town of Callander, which serves as the main hub for the area, has a wide variety of pubs, cafes, and restaurants where you can get refreshments before or after your hike.
What is the best time of year to visit Bracklinn Falls?
Bracklinn Falls is impressive year-round. In spring and summer, the woodlands are lush and green. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the forest. In winter, a dusting of snow can make the scenery magical. The falls are most powerful after heavy rainfall, which can happen at any time of year.
Besides the falls, what is the Bracklinn Bridge like?
The Bracklinn Bridge is a modern, sturdy structure installed in 2023. It spans the gorge and is an attraction in itself, offering spectacular, direct viewpoints down onto the powerful cascades of the Keltie Water. It's a popular spot for taking photos.
Most popular routes around Bracklin
Most popular attractions around Bracklin
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
