Goat Linn

Goat Linn stands in the Scottish Borders, a region of rolling hills and moorland rather than the rugged Highlands. The word ‘linn’ here refers to a waterfall or the deep pool beneath it, common in southern and eastern Scotland. It is one of many falls scattered across the country, though most of the tallest lie farther north where the land drops sharply. The name Goat Linn appears in local records and maps, though it does not rank among Scotland’s highest single-drop falls. Falls in the Highlands often measure their height by the largest uninterrupted drop, while others are measured as a series of steps. The term ‘spout’ is used elsewhere in Britain for similar features, but in this area ‘linn’ remains the usual word. A visit leads along a path beside the burn that feeds the linn. The water rushes over a short but steep section, carving a deep plunge pool below. Surrounding slopes are covered in heather and rough grass, typical of the Border hills. The sound of the fall rises above the wind, marking the spot without need for signs. Walkers often pause to watch the water’s swift descent before continuing along the track.