Top 7 Lakes around Croy
Lakes around Croy, a village in North Lanarkshire, Scotland, offer diverse natural and man-made water bodies. The region features a mix of natural lochs and reservoirs, providing varied landscapes for outdoor activities. These areas are known for their wildlife, scenic views, and opportunities for walking and cycling. The surrounding countryside provides a setting for exploring both historical sites and tranquil natural habitats.
Best lakes around Croy
- The most popular lakes is Fannyside Lochs, a lake located adjacent to Palacerigg…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Carron Valley Reservoir
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Lochend Loch
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Fannyside Lochs
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Carron Reservoir Dam
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Banton Loch
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Always great pictures, beautiful impressions, or amazing panoramic shots... A worthwhile ✅🚲—tour around the loch (lake)😅😅
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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 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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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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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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Nice views of towards Ochil Hills and of the reservoir. Watch out for red squirrels!
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An absolutely beautiful stretch of valley road. We rode it on a sunny, still late April day which I would suggest is ideal - I suspect the wind whips through here!
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Feels like you are in the middle of nowhere just a short distance from Glasgow.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I explore around Croy?
The area around Croy offers a mix of natural lochs and man-made reservoirs. You can find tranquil natural settings like Fannyside Lochs, which are popular for sailing and walking, as well as significant man-made bodies of water such as Carron Valley Reservoir, known for cycling along its flat tarmacked road.
Are there any lakes with historical significance near Croy?
Yes, Banton Loch, originally known as Townhead Reservoir, holds historical importance. Built in 1770 to feed the Forth and Clyde Canal, it was once Scotland's largest reservoir. The battlefield of the 1645 Battle of Kilsyth is also thought to be in its vicinity.
Which lakes are best for spotting wildlife and enjoying nature?
For wildlife, Lochend Loch within Drumpellier Park is excellent, offering opportunities to see resident and migratory waterfowl. The pond at RSPB Scotland Barons Haugh Nature Reserve near Motherwell is also a significant spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
What outdoor activities can I do around the lakes near Croy?
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Cycling is popular at Carron Valley Reservoir due to its flat road. For hiking, there are easy trails around Carron Reservoir Dam, or you can use it as a base for longer runs up nearby hills. Fishing is also an option at Fannyside Lochs and Greenhill Lakes.
Are there family-friendly lakes or walks suitable for children?
Absolutely. Many lakes are suitable for families. Fannyside Lochs and Carron Valley Reservoir are noted as family-friendly. Lanark Loch is also popular for all ages, and Broadwood Loch features a circular trail ideal for families and dog walkers. The RSPB Scotland Barons Haugh Nature Reserve is suitable for ages 4 and up.
Where can I find easy hiking or walking trails near the lakes?
For easy walks, Lochend Loch in Drumpellier Park has light gravel paths through woodlands. Carron Reservoir Dam also offers nice easy trails around the reservoir. You can find more easy hiking options in the area by exploring the Easy hikes around Croy guide.
What are some options for cycling around the lakes?
The Carron Valley Reservoir is particularly well-suited for cycling, featuring a flat tarmacked road that runs its entire length, offering scenic views. For more challenging routes, you can explore the Gravel biking around Croy guide, which includes routes around the Carron Valley area.
Are there any lakes suitable for fishing near Croy?
Yes, Fannyside Lochs are known for fishing. Additionally, Greenhill Lakes, formed from an abandoned mineshaft, are mature specimen carp and mixed coarse fishing lakes nestled in peaceful surroundings.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes around Croy?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and scenic views, especially at Fannyside Lochs. The opportunities for wildlife spotting at places like Lochend Loch and the cycling paths at Carron Valley Reservoir are also highly valued by the community.
Can I find running trails near the lakes in the Croy area?
Yes, there are several running trails available. For example, you can find routes that incorporate lakes like the 'Swans on Frozen Lake – Broadwood Loch loop from Croy'. More running options are detailed in the Running Trails around Croy guide.
What is Broadwood Loch known for?
Broadwood Loch, located in Cumbernauld, was created in 1994 as part of a flood remediation scheme. It has become a beautiful wildlife habitat, home to swans, other water birds, and various aquatic life. A circular trail around the loch is popular with local families and dog walkers.
Is there a large forest park with lochs near Croy?
Yes, Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, located roughly 20.5 miles from Croy, is a vast area that encompasses numerous lochs and offers extensive outdoor opportunities. While not a single lake, its diverse landscapes and bodies of water make it a significant natural attraction for all ages.
Most popular attractions around Croy
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