Falls of Shin

Natural Phenomenon and Viewing Point in Sutherland

Falls of Shin is a waterfall on the River Shin, in northern Scotland, near the villages of Bonar Bridge and Lairg. it is famous for being one of the best places in Scotland to view salmon leaping upstream. On sit it has a restaurant and gift shop, forest trails, mini golf, and children’s playpark. Free admission and parking.

Follow the winding road up through Achany Glen, alongside the meandering River Shin to an opening in the pine forest where the majestic Atlantic salmon leap up the thundering falls in a valiant attempt to get back up stream.

Every year throughout the summer, the fish return from the open ocean, swimming up the Dornoch Firth and the Kyle of Sutherland to try to reach further up the River Shin to where they were spawned. However, before they reach their destination they must pass the powerful torrent of water at the Falls.

Standing on the viewing platform you can watch the salmon as they try to leap clear of the water. Some manage to pass on their first attempt while others have to jump again and again. From the platform there are also fine views both up and down the River Shin, a popular fishing destination in the North of Scotland. (The best time to spot the salmon is between May – September.)

The Falls of Shin appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Sutherland!

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