The waterfall is hidden at the end of a woodland trail through birch, beech and oak trees – and it comes alive in winter
It may not be the biggest waterfall compared to the highlands but in autumn it’s surroundings are like no other(Image: Getty)
There’s something uniquely enchanting about winter in Britain that transforms an ordinary walk into something truly special.
Wandering through a forest filled with crisp frost making the trees look like their coated in fairy dust feels like stepping straight into the pages of a storybook.
But when this splendour meet the sight of cascading water, it creates a spectacle that’s utterly mesmerising and simply unmissable.
Fortunately for British adventurers, nestled amongst misty hillsides and tranquil footpaths lies a hidden treasure that seems almost otherworldly, where moments appear to drift by at a gentler pace.
That enchanting location is Craigie Linn waterfall, tucked just beyond Paisley near Glasgow. The pathway and waterfall sit within Glen Park, which forms part of the wider Gleniffer Braes Country Park.
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While it might not be amongst the world’s most colossal waterfalls, Craigie Linn’s setting makes it genuinely captivating. The natural wonder was created by and continues to be nourished by the Glen Burn, tumbling approximately eight metres, around 26 feet.
It may not compete with the towering waterfalls of the Highlands in scale. Yet, regarding ambience, particularly during autumn, it truly comes into its own.
The waterfall itself lies concealed at the conclusion of a compact trail, which guides you through birch, beech, and oak woodland.
Spotlighting this hidden treasure, Experience Scotland’s Wild on TikTok unveiled the waterfall to thousands of followers. The video opens: “Hidden near Paisley, there’s a magical little spot called Craigie Linn.
“It’s just a short stroll through the woods, and you’ll find this waterfall. It’s especially beautiful in autumn when the colours make it feel like a fairytale escape. It’s definitely worth checking out.”
The video has sparked considerable interest amongst potential visitors. One said: “Looks fabulous in colour. I love how it changes with the seasons.”
Another added: “Stunning. Added to the list!”.
Visitors should also remain alert for spectral apparitions and supernatural encounters.
Gleniffer Braes previously provided refuge for Scottish rebels, and local legend suggests their spirits can still be glimpsed on foggy evenings.
Getting to the waterfall is remarkably straightforward. Most people begin their journey from the “Car Park in the Sky”, officially known as Robertson Car Park in Gleniffer Braes, before following the marked woodland trails down towards the burn.
The route is brief and picturesque, with some steeper stretches as you make your way through the woodland.
For those relying on public transport, Paisley is readily accessible by train from Glasgow, and from the station, local bus services or taxis can bring you nearer to Glenburn or Glen Park.
Entry to the area is complimentary, though parking spaces can become scarce on pleasant weekends, making an early start advisable.
The trails can become boggy or treacherous following wet weather, so robust, waterproof boots are essential – and following rainfall, the waterfall reaches its most spectacular state, with water cascading over the rocks in a foaming torrent.
The town is the wettest place on Earth, with an average of 11,873mm of rainfall each year – 22 times more than London and 11 times more than Glasgow
The rain can be dangerously hard in Mawsynram (Image: Subhendu Sarkar, LightRocket via Getty Images)
The wettest spot on the planet receives 22 times more rain than London and frequently experiences downpours so severe that venturing outdoors becomes hazardous.
In the UK, it has been a truly miserable winter. Cornwall and County Down recorded their wettest January on record, while Northern Ireland saw its wettest January is 149 years. Across the UK, 26 stations set new monthly records for the highest January rainfall. Daily records also fell. Plymouth recorded its wettest January day in 104 years. And February has been no better so far. As of February 9, southern England had seen 72% of its monthly average.
There is a place in India that makes all of this look pathetic.
Mawsynram is tucked within the verdant forests of the Khasi Hills in India’s far eastern reaches, perched above Bangladesh. It boasts stunning scenery, but remains perpetually drenched. The town sees approximately 11,873mm of annual rainfall, nearly 11 times the 1,109mm that drenches notoriously wet Glasgow and a staggering 22 times London’s yearly 585mm.
Jyotiprasad Oza has spent his entire life in the town, earning his living by guiding inquisitive tourists through the area with TourHQ. Visitors travel from across the globe to witness existence in Earth’s soggiest location, with travellers routinely journeying from America and Britain.
“We get about 10,000 tourists a year. During rainy time people like to visit because it’s very heavy rainfall, especially June to September,” Jyotiprasad explained to the Mirror just as storm clouds – rather unsurprisingly – started gathering overhead.
Mawsynram’s rainfall differs markedly from precipitation elsewhere. Once it begins, it can persist relentlessly for days. Locals often rush indoors when the deluge begins, only to discover the torrent hasn’t ceased for an entire week. Yet it’s not merely duration that sets it apart.
During one extraordinary June day last decade, a staggering 1,003mm of rain drenched the town – double London’s entire annual precipitation. The consequences of such torrential downpours on Mawsynram can be utterly catastrophic.
“During the time of heavy rainfall, it is impossible to go outside. We can’t do our daily walk. We are not supposed to go outside during the rainy time. Sometimes children can’t go to school during the rain. It is quite dangerous,” Jyotiprasad explained.
When the monsoon arrives, landslides and flooding pose severe risks to residents’ safety, whilst power cuts become routine and fresh water systems struggle to cope. But beyond these immediate perils, the unrelenting dampness leaves many locals yearning for drier climes.
“We prefer to move to where it gets less rain,” Jyotiprasad said, noting that hardly anyone chooses to relocate to the region.
Multiple factors contribute to the town’s extraordinary precipitation levels. Perched 1,400m above sea level, Mawsynram experiences a highland climate intensified by humid, tropical air masses that sweep up from the Bay of Bengal throughout the monsoon season, whilst the positioning of the Khasi Hills creates a natural barrier that blocks airflow from the bay.
Locals in Mawsynram have devised ingenious methods to prevent the relentless downpours from completely upending their daily lives. Numerous homes are constructed with soundproofing to block out the thunderous drumming of rainfall.
On days when a heavy waterproof jacket and wellington boots simply aren’t sufficient, traditional full-body umbrellas known as Knups offer popular protection from the deluge. These substantial shell-shaped contraptions are fashioned from bamboo and banana leaves.
The rainfall isn’t the sole attraction drawing people to Mawsynram. The stunning scenery, vantage points and cascading waterfalls throughout the region prove enormously popular with those who appreciate the natural world.
A particular magnet for visitors are the Nohkalikai Waterfalls, ranked as the fourth tallest globally.
The train rocks you to sleep and wakes you somewhere spectacular
There was plenty of stunning scenery to explore(Image: Kirsty Bosley)
Just one sleeper train ride away from a major English city is spectacular views, deserted beaches and waterfalls. Features Writer Kirsty Bosley branded it “one of the most magical days of her entire life”.
Just the previous evening, she had been stuck in gridlock at Birmingham’s Five Ways island, stressed and anxious about missing the Caledonian Sleeper – the train that lulls you to sleep in the midland city and rouses you in the Scottish Highlands.
She secured a ticket to whisk her from Brum to Inverness, awakening in Scotland following a 10-hour journey on the overnight service and granting roughly 12 hours there before her pre-booked return departure.
Therefore, I was determined to cram in absolutely everything possible during those 12 hours – family-friendly attractions, trails for hikers, intimate experiences for lovers and tranquil spots for contemplation in the wilderness, much like the moment I was savouring on Dores Beach, reports Birmingham Live.
Furthermore, I aimed to accomplish everything whilst spending minimal money, surviving on Tunnocks Teacakes and Irn Bru alongside small portable snacks we grabbed en route. The day’s largest expense turned out to be the most worthwhile: a pre-paid £42 hire car from Enterprise.
After a brisk 15-minute stroll from the train station, we picked it up and embarked on our ambitious mission to navigate the entirety of Loch Ness (roughly 70 miles) in a single day.
Fuelled by a mere £15, we accomplished our goal, embarking on a clockwise journey that began with tears of joy as the loch unveiled itself, perfectly timed to Taylor Swift’s bridge from Cruel Summer blaring from the speakers.
We pulled over, rolled down the windows and danced roadside under the rising sun, brimming with anticipation for the perfect day ahead.
A masterclass in Loch Ness
Following our jubilant pit stop, our first destination was the Loch Ness Clansman Hotel to see the plaque commemorating Ozzy Osbourne’s nocturnal escapades in the loch, where he searched for Nessie alongside his son Jack.
Driving felt less like a chore and more like a pleasure with the constant backdrop of the Highlands. In Drumnadrochit, at the hotel where the monster tales originated, we made our second largest purchase of the day: £15 entry to The Loch Ness Centre, narrated in its entirety by David Tennant.
As we moved from room to room, we delved into the origins of the rumours, the ensuing frenzy, the history and geography of the land, and the Scottish myths and legends that lent an air of reality to the tale.
We also discovered the fascinating science behind why it’s impossible to definitively prove there isn’t a monster lurking in a body of water so extraordinarily deep that all the freshwater from every lake, reservoir and river in England and Wales combined couldn’t fill it.
Following that revelation, I found myself scrutinising the water far more intently, half-convinced there was a genuine possibility she might poke her enormous neck above the surface to greet us passing Brummies.
The sheer sense of wonder sparked by the centre’s masterclass justified the entrance fee entirely, as every subsequent free activity we undertook was now enhanced by our newfound knowledge.
We reached Urquhart Castle in remarkably quick time – a military ruin positioned directly on the water’s edge.
Walk-up admission costs £16 and whilst I was certain it would be spectacular to explore, we decided to save it for another visit now we were absolutely convinced we’d be returning. Boat excursions can transport you there, so that was immediately added to my ‘to-do’ list.
Enchanted woodlands and breathtaking vistas
We pressed on along the waterside A82 towards Invermoriston, the sort of place that appears lifted straight from an adventure film.
The Old Bridge spanning the thundering falls of the River Moriston, as it crashes dramatically towards Loch Ness, resembles something from a fairy tale. Despite being situated on the renowned Great Glen Way trail, it all felt like a mystical secret because remarkably few other visitors were present.
We parked up (parking is free, but donations are appreciated, as with many public toilets along the route) and embarked on a stroll into the woodland, pausing at the historic Summer House Victorian folly to soak in the surroundings, much like folks did years ago as salmon battled their way upstream.
Meandering through spongy clusters of radiant white reindeer lichen, pausing to observe the rapids and keeping an eye out for squirrels, I felt a sense of tranquillity wash over me. It’s a must-visit spot for any traveller – I wish every Brummie could experience it.
By the time we reached the South Shore, it was 2pm, and we’d managed to cover half the loch’s circumference in just four hours.
A brief pause for photos and laughter ensued before we rounded the southernmost point and were greeted by a view so breathtaking from the Suidhe Viewpoint that we had to pull over.
Another family of tourists arrived, and although we exchanged few words, our shared silence spoke volumes about the unforgettable, life-affirming moment we were experiencing. We swapped cameras to help each other capture proof of our presence in this extraordinary place. The wild beauty of our surroundings was almost overwhelming as we continued our journey.
Wildlife and waterfalls
We encountered a majestic stag who turned to regard our car. It felt like we’d stepped into an illustration on the front of a tin of special shortbread biscuits. Overhead, giant birds, possibly including a golden eagle, soared majestically.
Our next stop was the Falls of Foyers, a spectacular 140ft waterfall nestled within a forest inhabited by elusive red squirrels. Tunnocks Teacakes and Irn Bru proved insufficient fuel for the challenging descent down steep steps, but thankfully the Waterfall Cafe offered sausage rolls and other snacks to revive us.
With daylight fading, we passed by Boleskine House (the former residence of Aleister Crowley and Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page), which was shut, though we went anyway simply to say we’d been, before heading off to find a man we’d discovered at The Loch Ness Centre.
Dusk – One final adventure
Steve Feltham is a renowned ‘Nessie Hunter’ who abandoned his family business, relationship and home to move from Dorset. Since 1991, he’s lived on the loch’s shores and has devoted himself to spotting ‘the monster’ ever since.
Yet his tale is really about leaving behind what doesn’t fulfil you and pursuing the life you desire. I desperately wanted to meet him before nightfall.
We reached his modest dwelling as the sky began transforming colours above Dores Beach. He wasn’t there, but after the dog-walkers departed, I chose to wait a whilst longer in case he returned.
The pebbled shoreline is magnificent, the surroundings breathtaking. I pondered whether Steve might welcome a new neighbour, though I knew Birmingham beckoned so I could pen this account.
Both Steve and Nessie remained beyond our grasp, only one possessing confirmed existence but both surrounded by legends I yearned to explore further. Returning to relinquish the rental car and hop back on what I’ll forever dub the ‘Loch Ness Express’, we bid farewell to it all, but only physically.
I was convinced that my spirit remained in Invermoriston, still on the hunt for red squirrels. I plan to retrieve her on the next available journey aboard the Caledonian Sleeper. This time around, I’ll be sure to pack sandwiches.
The 120-acre National Trust site near Masham features 18th-century grottos, waterfalls and ruins hidden within ancient woodland on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales
It was abandoned for decades before its restoration (Image: PaulMaguire via Getty Images)
In North Yorkshire, near the market town of Masham, lies an expansive woodland haven brimming with hidden gems that stretch back to the 18th century.
Hackfall Woods stands as a magnificent 120-acre expanse of ancient forest, attracting visitors with its enchanting atmosphere and stunning views. The Woodland Trust-owned site holds grade 1 listed status, owing to its 18th-century remnants and historic garden features.
Perched on the fringe of the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, Hackfall nestles within a dramatic and rugged gorge carved by the River Ure.
Following years of neglect and deterioration, the woodland has been carefully restored to its original splendour, now welcoming keen walkers and explorers across Yorkshire.
History
Whilst today Hackfall appears as an untouched wilderness, it was actually carefully crafted to achieve this wild aesthetic by a renowned landscaper in 1731.
John Aislabie bought the estate and, working with his son, reimagined it as a seemingly natural landscape dotted with decorative features for visitors to admire.
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The design was cleverly conceived to showcase the pre-existing panoramas and natural characteristics, amplifying the area’s inherent beauty.
Yet following their considerable efforts, Hackfall endured decades of abandonment and disrepair, before being purchased in 1932 by an owner who stripped the site of its trees. The structures had fallen into disrepair, and flooding had worn away the once-stunning water features.
In 1989, the Woodland Trust stepped in to save the site, securing it on a lease of nearly 1,000 years, with support from organisations including the Hackfall Trust and English Heritage.
Since that time, this magnificent woodland has been formally designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, alongside recognition as ancient semi-natural woodland.
It continues to attract visitors from throughout the country, eager to witness the waterfalls, sculptures and historic ruins.
One visitor recounted their experience on TripAdvisor, writing: “Hackfall is a beautiful and peaceful woodland brimming with nature, trees, plants, birds, wildlife, streams, ponds, castle ruins, great views on a hillside alongside the River Ure. It’s a super place for peace and quiet, for individuals, for families, suitable for all ages to explore and get away from it all.”
Wildlife
Nature enthusiasts are guaranteed a memorable experience at Hackfall, renowned for the remarkable diversity of species that inhabit the area.
From bird life to flora and insects, the woodland is bursting with biodiversity, and countless sightings have been documented here, particularly by dedicated birdwatchers.
The website showcases an extensive array of creatures visitors might encounter, from kingfishers to dippers, grey wagtails and woodpeckers. Guests can also anticipate spotting stoats, foxes, badgers, butterflies and little lemon slugs.
Access
Given the challenging landscape, featuring numerous steep footpaths, Hackfall is only suitable for those confident navigating steps and inclines, as wheelchair access isn’t available.
The woodland offers up to four entry points, with the two most frequented located at the top of the site and featuring the steepest routes.
To access these, you’ll need to start from the minor road linking Grewelthorpe to Masham. The entrance has no barriers, and as you follow the trail, you’ll quickly discover it’s a gentle gradient with a handful of steps.
Free parking is available nearby at the Woodland Trust car park, situated roughly half a mile before Grewelthorpe Village. Some walkers alternatively opt to park in the village of Masham.
Bear in mind there are no toilet facilities within the woodlands themselves, with the closest public toilets located back in Masham. While this is typical for most woodland rambles, visitors will be delighted to learn that not only are they welcome, but their dogs are too.
This charming village in the South Pennines near the Peak District is ideal for walkers and cyclists to explore stunning landscapes and historic tunnel
It’s full of attractions and yet is less popular with tourists (Image: Miravision via Getty Images)
Nestled beside the River Colne in the South Pennines, right on the edge of the Peak District, sits this delightful town – an ideal getaway for ramblers and cycling enthusiasts.
Visitors heading to the Yorkshire Moors or Peak District frequently bypass the village of Marsden, yet it serves as an excellent base for exploration. Boasting scenic countryside walks and numerous spots to take a breather or enjoy a refreshing pint, it occupies a prime position, with fascinating landmarks practically on the doorstep.
Among the attractions drawing travellers is the stunning Marsden Moor, which stretches across more than 5,000 acres of National Trust-protected countryside. A local shared their thoughts about regular visits to the moor on TripAdvisor.
They said: “I’m lucky enough to live in Marsden, so I’m on the moors pretty much every week with the dogs or the local running club I run for.
“There are stunning walks, trails, waterfalls and plenty of reservoirs, and plenty of tracks to walk and run on. It’s never really busy, as it’s such a big area.”
Another walker shared: “Walk on the wild side. This is a beautiful and very lonely part of the countryside not far from our home. We regularly walk the dog and enjoy some quiet time up here.
“Winderness, well not quite, but you might not meet many people up here. Beautiful.”
Numerous walkers opt for the stunning Stanza Stones Trail, a 47-mile long-distance path connecting Marsden to Ilkley whilst weaving local landmarks throughout the journey.
The trek features six poems carved into stone, all penned by the locally acclaimed Poet Laureate Simon Armitage.
Yet what truly remains a precious jewel of this village is the Standedge Tunnel, which dates from 1794.
It stands magnificently as Britain’s longest, deepest and highest canal tunnel – a remarkable example of Georgian engineering prowess. The complete construction of this exceptional structure required 17 years in total and reached completion in 1811.
Its importance also lies in the fact it was created entirely through hand-blasting methods, cutting through solid rock without any towpath. It sits 683 feet below ground level, positioned 196 metres above sea level, and continues to hold British records in 2026.
Following your stroll, you can return to the village heart, where numerous pubs await your arrival. TripAdvisor visitors have rated Riverhead Brewery Tap as the locality’s premier dining and drinking establishment, with one patron describing their experience as “simply superb”.
Another commented: “Outstanding pub the service and beer were exceptional. Anyone coming to Marsden needs to go to the Riverhead; their choice of beer is amazing, and it’s brewed on site as well.”
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Famous for its dramatic landscapes, historic cities, hearty food, and rich cultural heritage Yorkshire is just waiting to be explored. Sykes Cottages has a large number of properties to choose from with prices from £31 per night.
