Create an account

Start your adventure today.

    0

    Already a member? Login

    Seven Bridges and Knock Castle Circular Walk

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    2-3h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    10.5 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    140 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead
    Seven Bridges and Knock Castle Circular Walk

    Seven Bridges and Knock Castle Circular Walk is a relaxed 10.5 km route that will have you immersed in the beauty of the countryside that encases Ballater. Fresh country air, meandering rivers, and rolling hills make this walk a favourite of locals and visitors alike. Much of the walk unfolds on waymarked paths, small roads and tracks, resulting in easy navigation and a pleasant walking experience.

    Download the 10Adventures App

    View Seven Bridges and Knock Castle Circular Walk on Map

    View Map

    Join our newsletter

    Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

    Route Description for Seven Bridges and Knock Castle Circular Walk

    The Seven Bridges and Knock Castle Circular Walk is the perfect way to soak up the beauty of the Ballater countryside while also taking in a piece of Scottish history at a ruined 16th-century tower house featured on a brief detour during the route. The route is great for families, as long as the wee ones can manage the 10.5km distance. However, buggies aren’t recommended due to sections that unfold on uneven paths and tracks.

    To begin the walk, set out from the restored railway station car park and walk along the main road, heading right on it towards Braemar. The route is waymarked in blue, and from here, you’ll cross a bridge before turning left onto Invercauld Road. Stroll past some of Ballater’s finest stone dwellings, continuing to follow the blue marker posts and proceed on the road that soon makes way for a footpath. At the crossroads up ahead, continue straight, then at the wood’s edge, continue on the path that forks right and cross the wooden barrier.

    Enjoy the rushing waters of the River Dee on this stunning section as you enjoy the scenic woodlands and nature’s symphony that fills the country air. Upon reaching the next fork, opt for the path that heads towards main A93 road and bears right. Then, before the road is reached, make a left to join a track that leads to the rear of barn and shed structures.

    Up ahead, pass through the gate of the impressive Polhollick bridge (circa 1892) and join the track, heading left. You’ll soon be met by the aroma of the dense Scots pine that makes up Dalliefour Wood as you continue on the track for several kilometres. With Craigendarroch rising magnificently in the distance as you proceed straight at the fork. At the road, turn right to take in the spectacular ruins of Knock Castle, which you’re able to enter through the main door.

    Following your exploration of the castle, make your way back to the road and retrace your steps to rejoin the main track. Pass the Bridge of Muick and head left to pick up the signed path that soon slopes down and merges with a track. At the junction up ahead, continue straight, then follow signs for Ballater, keeping left. Back on the main street of Ballater, continue to the restored railway station where the walk began.

    Getting to the Seven Bridges and Knock Castle Circular Walk Trailhead

    To get to the Seven Bridges and Knock Castle Circular Walk from Braemar, head north on Glenshee Rd/Old Military Rd/A93 towards Castleton Place and follow A93 for 26.4 km. Then, turn left onto Station Square and park in the car park found in front of the restored railway station found in Ballater’s town centre.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      Year-round access

    • Pets allowed

      Yes

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Good

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Lollipop

    Seven Bridges and Knock Castle Circular Walk Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

    Seven Bridges and Knock Castle Circular Walk Reviews

    Add a comment

    You must be logged in to post a comment.

    Nearby Trails

    Nearby Regions

    Get travel inspiration and discounts

    Join our weekly travel newsletter