The Ultimate Guide to Killin

Killin is quite simply one of the finest small villages in the Scottish Highlands. Sitting at the western head of Loch Tay where the River Dochart meets the River Lochay, it’s a place where dramatic natural beauty and genuine Highland community come together in a way that feels increasingly rare.

The village is most famous for the Falls of Dochart — a spectacular series of rapids and cascades that thunder through the centre of Killin, right beside the old stone bridge. It’s one of Scotland’s most photographed sights, and it’s free to visit year-round.

Getting to Know Killin

Killin has a year-round population of around 700 people, but the village punches well above its weight in terms of facilities, character, and things to do. You’ll find:

• A well-stocked Co-op supermarket
• MacGregor’s Community Store & Café — a community-owned organic shop and café
• Several pubs and restaurants
• Outdoor shops and equipment hire
• A primary school, medical centre, and community hub
• Some of the friendliest people you’ll meet anywhere in Scotland

The village sits at a natural crossroads — the A827 runs east to Kenmore and Aberfeldy, while the road west takes you to Crianlarich and the gateway to the West Highlands. This makes Killin an ideal base for exploring a huge swathe of central Scotland.

Top Things to Do in Killin

Falls of Dochart

The number one attraction. In spate (heavy rainfall), the falls are a thundering spectacle. In summer, the smooth rocks become popular sunbathing spots. The old bridge over the falls is the classic viewpoint. Just across the bridge, you can visit the ancient burial ground of Clan MacNab on Inchbuie (the island between the falls).

Breadalbane Folklore Centre

Housed in the historic St Fillan’s Mill by the falls, this small but fascinating museum tells the story of the Breadalbane area — its clans, its legends, and its natural heritage. Great for rainy days.

Walking

From gentle riverside strolls to serious mountain days:

• Glen Lochay — A quiet, beautiful valley running west from Killin, perfect for cycling or walking
• Ben Lawers — The trailhead is just 6 miles from Killin
• Killin to Ardeonaig — A lochside walk along the south shore
• Rob Roy Way — The long-distance trail passes right through the village

Watersports

Killin is the base for several watersports operators offering:

• Kayaking and canoeing on Loch Tay
• White-water kayaking on the River Dochart (for experienced paddlers)
• Stand-up paddleboarding
• Gorge walking and river tubing

Cycling

The quiet roads around Killin are perfect for cycling:

• Glen Lochay — Flat, scenic, and traffic-free beyond the first few miles
• NCN Route 7 — The national cycle network passes through Killin
• Mountain biking — Several forest trails accessible from the village

Where to Eat in Killin

• Falls of Dochart Inn — The village institution. Great pub food, real ales, and a terrace overlooking the falls
• The Courie Inn — Modern gastropub with excellent seasonal menus
• The Capercaillie — Traditional pub with hearty food
• Shutters Restaurant & Coffee Shop — Light lunches and legendary home baking
• Bridge of Lochay Hotel — Just west of the village, traditional Highland hotel bar

Where to Stay in Killin

• Killin Hotel — Right in the centre, traditional Highland hotel
• The Courie Inn — Boutique rooms above the restaurant
• Dall Lodge Country House — Elegant B&B in beautiful grounds
• Self-catering cottages — Several options in and around the village

Practical Information

• Parking — Free car park at the Falls of Dochart (can fill up in summer). Additional parking at the top of the village.
• Public toilets — Available in the centre of the village
• Cash machines — There’s an ATM at the Co-op
• Mobile signal — Generally good (EE and Vodafone), though patchy in surrounding glens
• EV charging — Charger available in the village

Killin is the kind of place that gets under your skin. Many visitors come for a weekend and end up returning year after year. Give it a chance, and it’ll do the same to you.