Kingside Loch is a secluded freshwater loch located in the Scottish Borders, nestled near the northern edge of Craik Forest. This tranquil area is characterized by its attractive woodland setting and rich wetland habitat, making Kingside Loch a notable wildlife haven. The surrounding landscape offers varied terrain, including forest roads and trails, suitable for several sports like hiking and touring cycling.
Kingside Loch provides numerous routes for outdoor enthusiasts looking for things to do…
16
Routes
4.1
(6)
Average rating
54
People visited

1
hikers
30.3km
08:28
590m
590m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

15.4km
04:15
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
2
hikers
25.6km
07:02
430m
420m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

20.2km
05:54
550m
540m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.0
(2)
10
riders
57.8km
03:32
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
riders
14.2km
01:04
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
riders
14.2km
01:05
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5
riders
39.3km
02:22
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Kingside Loch offers opportunities for various outdoor activities, primarily hiking and touring cycling. The area features a network of trails and forest roads suitable for exploring the woodland setting and freshwater loch. Komoot users have rated routes in the region with an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars.
Yes, Kingside Loch and the surrounding Craik Forest provide numerous hiking routes. These range from easy paths to more extended walks through woodlands and along forest tracks. Specific guides are available for Hiking around Kingside Loch.
Kingside Loch is well-suited for touring cycling, with many forest roads in Craik Forest. These routes offer a chance to explore the area's natural beauty on two wheels. Information on cycling opportunities can be found in the Cycling around Kingside Loch guide.
Yes, Kingside Loch offers routes suitable for families and those seeking easier walks. The area's trails vary in difficulty, providing options for different fitness levels. A dedicated guide for Family-friendly hikes around Kingside Loch is available.
Kingside Loch is a secluded freshwater loch set within an attractive woodland. It is recognized as a wildlife haven due to its rich wetland habitat, supporting diverse flora and fauna. The nearby Craik Forest also features extensive woodlands and hills.
The area around Kingside Loch includes historical points of interest such as Craik Signal Station. This site is believed to be a Roman signal station and features an information board for visitors. It can be accessed via trails within Craik Forest.
Yes, Kingside Loch is considered a wildlife haven. Its wetland environment supports a vibrant ecosystem, making it an excellent location for observing local biodiversity. The tranquil setting enhances opportunities for nature appreciation.
Kingside Loch has attracted more than 80 visitors on komoot. Routes in the region have received an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from over 10 ratings. This indicates a positive reception from the outdoor community.
Komoot offers several guides for Kingside Loch to help plan outdoor adventures. These include Hiking around Kingside Loch, Family-friendly hikes around Kingside Loch, and Cycling around Kingside Loch.
The general policy for outdoor areas in the Scottish Borders, including Kingside Loch and Craik Forest, allows dogs. It is recommended to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Hikes around Kingside Loch and Craik Forest vary in length, from shorter loops of a few miles (several kilometers) to longer, more remote walks. For example, routes like the Wolfcleugh Waterfall loop offer shorter options, while others extend for more than 10 miles (16 kilometers).
Kingside Loch is situated in the Scottish Borders, specifically near the northern edge of Craik Forest. This location places it within a serene and secluded natural environment, offering a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

