The history of Cargill’s Leap
Reverend Donald Cargill was a prominent Scottish Covenanter who played a significant role in the country’s religious and political struggles during the 17th century. He was a powerful preacher who vehemently opposed the religious policies of the Scottish government and was persecuted for his beliefs. The Reverend jumped over the narrow lip of the gorge to escape from King Charles II’s troops who were in hot pursuit.
Although he may have escaped that day, fate caught him when he was captured 2 years later, and duly executed for what was considered treason.
The platform viewing points for both this attraction and the nearby salmon-leap , are sturdy and well constructed – and there are also various forest tracks you can choose to explore whilst there.
Although only just over a mile walk from the town centre, there is the Ericht Car Park (which is where I had parked – I was in a slight huff as my first choice has been to heard to Glenshee to summit the 3 Cairnwell Munros, but the road, and the diversion route were closed). From the car park we headed down the hill and down 60odd steps which lead to a bridge. The bridge looks stable enough but does bounce as you walk on it, so if like me there’s a slight fear of heights, it can seem slightly daunting at first.
On the bridge there’s been a number of “love locks” added, although this seems a relatively new addition as there wasn’t many. And crossing the bridge there’s an abandoned mill. The views on the bridge were stunning, although as other people were crossing the bridge at the same time as Perry and I, we made a swift move over.
Cargill’s Leap is around 200m to the left once you’ve crossed the bridge, and is a platform that takes you out over the river for spectacular views. There are a number of great viewing platforms along this side of the river.
On All-Trails there’s a nice route that takes you up Knockie Hill as well, although we didn’t have time for that today. Blairgowrie was looking fabulous in the Sunshine, and this walk is more an easy stroll, and can be as long or as short as pleased. I’d definitely say this is one of the best dog walks in Blairgowrie.
FAQ about Cargill’s Leap (Blairgowrie):
How Long Does it take to walk from the Ericht Car Par to Cargill’s Leap?
It takes roughly 10-15 minutes without too much stopping to look at the stunning views.
