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Scotland
West Scotland

Waterside

Top 7 Lakes around Waterside

Best lakes around Waterside offers a diverse landscape featuring both natural lochs and man-made reservoirs, often nestled within parklands and woodlands. This region provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, fishing, and wildlife observation. Visitors can explore tranquil waters with scenic views of surrounding hills and countryside. The area is characterized by its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, with some lakes serving as important water sources or having historical connections.

Best lakes around Waterside

  • The most popular…

Last updated: July 2, 2026

Lochend Loch

Highlight • Natural

Set in the beautiful Drumpellier Park, Lochend Loch is one of two natural lochs here. With a number of light gravel paths through the woodland and around the lochs it's …

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Fannyside Lochs

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These are two really pretty lochs here that are located adjacent to Palacerigg Country Park. There is a sailing club there, fishing and some nice walking trails too. There are …

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Hogganfield Loch

Highlight • Natural

Hogganfield Loch is the main feature of this local nature reserve. It's a large, shallow loch with a wooded island. It's a great place to watch birds and other wildlife. …

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Carron Reservoir Dam

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Opened in 1939 Carron Valley Reservoir provides water for about 135,000 people. There are nice easy trails around the reservoir or the managed woodland or use this as a base …

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Banton Loch

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Ready for the climb

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Popular around Waterside

Road Cycling Routes around Waterside

Running Trails around Waterside

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Tips from the Community

SIMI - Simone & Michael
July 27, 2025, Lochend Loch

Always great pictures, beautiful impressions, or amazing panoramic shots... A worthwhile ✅🚲—tour around the loch (lake)😅😅

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David Howells
September 10, 2024, Fannyside Lochs

These are two really pretty lochs here that are located adjacent to Palacerigg Country Park. There is a sailing club there, fishing and some nice walking trails too. There are acually several combinations of trails here, but if you combine a walk through the park and the lochs, then keep an eye out for the wildlife. It's also a very tranquil place with lovely views across the calm waters to the surrounding hills and countryside.

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Neale
March 10, 2024, Banton Loch

Feeds the Forth and Clyde canal

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Brian
January 21, 2024, Banton Loch

Ah, Banton Loch, or as it was once known, Townhead Reservoir. Now, there’s a place that’s brimming with stories. It’s nestled on the east side of Kilsyth in North Lanarkshire, Scotland, a mere 21 kilometres north-east of Glasgow. This man-made marvel, built in 1770 to feed water into the canal, was once the largest reservoir in Scotland. It’s a freshwater lake, impounded by earthwork dams, sitting pretty at 86 metres above sea level. The loch stretches about 1 kilometre in length with a maximum width of about 280 metres1. It’s fed by a number of burns draining the Kilsyth Hills to its north. Now, if you’re a history buff, you’ll be thrilled to know that the battlefield of the 15 August 1645 Battle of Kilsyth between Scottish Royalists and Covenanters is thought to be in the vicinity of the loch. The exact position remains a subject of debate, but it’s a fascinating piece of history nonetheless.

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51m
August 2, 2023, Hogganfield Loch

Hogganfield Loch is the main feature of this local nature reserve. It's a large, shallow loch with a wooded island. It's a great place to watch birds and other wildlife. The perimeter track is flat and well maintained, making access easy for, most people.

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51m
March 13, 2023, Carron Reservoir Dam

Opened in 1939 Carron Valley Reservoir provides water for about 135,000 people. There are nice easy trails around the reservoir or the managed woodland or use this as a base to start a longer run up Meikle Bin or one of the other hills.

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Ready for the climb

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Set in the beautiful Drumpellier Park, Lochend Loch is one of two natural lochs here. With a number of light gravel paths through the woodland and around the lochs it's a lovely place to while away a few hours, with plenty of wildlife to spot too. Keep your eyes open for resident and migratory waterfowl, as well as fungi in the autumn months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular lakes to visit around Waterside?

Among the most popular lakes are Fannyside Lochs, known for its sailing club, fishing, and tranquil walking trails. Lochend Loch, located within Drumpellier Park, is appreciated for its natural beauty and wildlife. Another notable spot is Carron Reservoir Dam, which offers easy trails and serves as a base for longer runs into the hills.

Are there family-friendly lakes around Waterside?

Yes, several lakes around Waterside are suitable for families. Fannyside Lochs and Lochend Loch are both highlighted as family-friendly, offering pleasant walks and opportunities to spot wildlife. Carron Reservoir Dam also features easy trails that are great for family outings.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes around Waterside?

The lakes are rich in wildlife. At Lochend Loch, you can spot resident and migratory waterfowl, and in autumn, various fungi. Fannyside Lochs also offers opportunities for wildlife observation along its walking trails. Hogganfield Loch is a local nature reserve, making it an excellent place for birdwatching and observing other wildlife.

Are there accessible trails around the lakes for all visitors?

Yes, Hogganfield Loch features a perimeter track that is flat and well-maintained, making it easily accessible for most people, including those using wheelchairs. This makes it a great option for visitors seeking accessible outdoor experiences.

What historical significance do any of the lakes hold?

Banton Loch, originally known as Townhead Reservoir, was built in 1770 to feed water into the Forth and Clyde Canal, becoming Scotland's largest reservoir at the time. It is also thought to be in the vicinity of the 1645 Battle of Kilsyth, adding a significant historical layer to its natural beauty.

What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Waterside?

Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the Waterside area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as those detailed in the Running Trails around Waterside guide. For hikers, there are options ranging from easy to difficult, including the 'Swans on Frozen Lake – Broadwood Loch loop' mentioned in the Hiking around Waterside guide. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes like the 'Bishop Loch – Lochend Loch loop' found in the Gravel biking around Waterside guide.

Are there specific hiking trails recommended near these lakes?

Yes, the area offers various hiking trails. For an easy option, consider the 'Swans on Frozen Lake – Broadwood Loch loop'. More challenging routes include the 'Bar Hill Roman Fort – Croy Hill Roman Fort loop'. You can explore more options in the Hiking around Waterside guide.

Can I go cycling or gravel biking around the lakes?

Absolutely. The region is well-suited for cycling, particularly gravel biking. Routes like the 'Bishop Loch – Lochend Loch loop' offer scenic rides. For a comprehensive list of trails, refer to the Gravel biking around Waterside guide.

Where can I find tranquil spots for walking around Waterside's lakes?

For tranquil walks, Fannyside Lochs offers peaceful trails with lovely views across calm waters. Lochend Loch, with its light gravel paths through woodlands, also provides a serene environment for a leisurely stroll. The perimeter track at Hogganfield Loch is another excellent choice for a quiet walk.

What are the best lakes for fishing around Waterside?

Fannyside Lochs is a great option for fishing, as it explicitly mentions fishing as one of the activities available. While not all lakes specify fishing, many natural lochs in the region are popular for angling.

Are there any lakes suitable for watersports like sailing?

Yes, Fannyside Lochs is home to a sailing club, indicating it's a suitable location for sailing and other watersports. Its open waters provide ample space for such activities.

What are the best times of year to visit the lakes around Waterside?

While specific seasonal advice for Waterside isn't detailed, generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with autumn providing opportunities to spot fungi around Lochend Loch. Summer is ideal for watersports and longer days, while winter can offer unique, crisp walking experiences, though some facilities might have reduced hours.

Are there facilities like toilets or cafes near the lakes?

Information on specific facilities varies by location. Lochend Loch is within Drumpellier Park, which typically offers amenities. Fannyside Lochs, with its sailing club, may have some facilities. For more detailed information on amenities like cafes or toilets, it's advisable to check local park websites or visitor information for each specific lake.

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Still not found your perfect lake around Waterside? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

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