Discover bluebells and Bracklinn Falls on walks

People in Forth Valley are being invited to step out with the Ramblers for their Walk About festival to discover the best of the surrounding area and uncover the hidden gems on their doorstep.

The nationwide festival, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, takes place from May 26-June 3.

Stirling, Falkirk and District member Margaret Cook, said:“Anyone who loves walking will know it’s the best way to discover the world around you – it could be an amazing secret view, a quirky old building tucked down a side-street, or simply a fantastic new walking route. We know lots of great spots and want to share them with others.”

The group is inviting people to join them on two walks during the festival - Kinclaven Woods Bluebell Walk on Sunday, May 27 - distance six miles/three hours; difficulty Grade C (leisurely); description - an exploration of wonderful woodlands managed by the Woodland Trust near the village of Kinclaven in Perthshire. At this time of year there should be a carpet of bluebells and the walk route also includes a delightful stretch on the banks of the beautiful River Tay.

Meeting point is Linden Avenue car park, Stirling at 9.30am and starting point is Ballathie House Hotel, PH1 4QN at 10.30am. Walk leader is Colin Thomson 07702 636505 or colinbthomson@gmail.com.

The other walk is on Sunday, June 3 - Bracklinn Falls and Scout’s Pool, Callander. Distance seven miles/3.5 hours; difficulty Grade C-plus; description: a spectacular walk taken at an easy pace, leaving Callander by the old railway track then climbing up to Bracklinn Falls. The Bracklinn Bridge with its distinctive A-shaped roof provides a breathtaking elevated viewpoint up and down the rugged 100m gorge. After crossing the Keltie Water there is a climb through the forest to views of the mountains, crossing near the Scout’s Pool to reach a minor road then return through the woods above Callander.

Meeting Point is Linden Avenue car park, Stirling at 9.30am and starting point is Ancaster Square, Callander FK17 8BL at 10.15am. Walk leader is Lorraine Milne 07925 217341 or lorrainemilne@hotmail.co.uk.

Margaret added:“If you want to discover local places that are great for walking and get out and enjoy the great outdoors in good company, come and join us on one of our walks. And bring your friends and family too.”All walks during Walk About are free to attend.

Clara Govier, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said:“We are delighted that players of People’s Postcode Lottery are able to support the Ramblers with their Walk About festival, which we know will help thousands of people discover the joys of walking.”