Top 12 Lakes around Fintry
Best lakes around Fintry offer a range of natural and man-made water bodies set within a varied Scottish landscape. The region features lochs that serve as historical sites, reservoirs for water supply, and areas for outdoor activities. These lakes contribute to the local environment, providing habitats for wildlife and opportunities for exploration. Fintry's proximity to these water features makes it a destination for those seeking accessible lake walks and scenic views.
Best lakes around Fintry
- The most popular lakes is Craigallian Loch, a historical site that holds significance for local climbing communities. A commemorative plaque marks the Craigallian Fire, a beacon of companionship during the 1930s depression.
- Another must-see spot is Carron Valley Reservoir, a scenic man-made lake. Built in the 1930s for hydroelectric power, it features a flat tarmacked road suitable for cycling.
- Visitors also love Carron Reservoir Dam, a significant man-made structure. Opened in 1939, this reservoir provides water for approximately 135,000 people and offers easy trails.
- Fintry is known for its man-made lakes, historical lochs, and family-friendly water bodies. These include reservoirs built for water supply and hydroelectric projects, alongside natural lochs with historical significance.
- The lakes around Fintry are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 300 upvotes and 60 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: June 20, 2026
Craigallian Loch
Highlight • Historical Site
The 'Fire Sitters' founded mountaineering clubs such as the Creagh Dhu, Lomond and Ptarmigan clubs, and emboldened the folk who went on to open up Scotland to all.
The text reads:
"Here burned the Craigallian Fire.
During the depression of the 1930s
it was a beacon of companionship
and hope for young unemployed people
who came from Glasgow and Clydebank
seeking adventure in Scotland's wild
places. Their pioneering spirit helped to
make the Scottish countryside free for
all to roam."
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Carron Valley Reservoir
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Carron Reservoir Dam
Highlight • Lake
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Banton Loch
Highlight • Lake
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Broadwood Loch
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tips from the Community
Nice to see in the video: https://youtu.be/FTvrh28-ojY
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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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What else do you need to know. Insanely beautiful
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The first major lake on the West Highland Way is very atmospheric.
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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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Braodwood Loch was created in 1994 when a dam was built across the burn as part of a flood remediation scheme, it helps control water downstream. Today it's a beautiful wildlife habitat within the urban area of Cumbernauld. The loch is home to flocks of swans and other water birds as well as lots of insects and underwater life. The circular trail around the loch is popular with local families and dog walkers.
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Beautiful quiet Loch with a wide range of wildlife to spot as you cycle through.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly lakes around Fintry?
Yes, several lakes around Fintry are suitable for families. Carron Valley Reservoir and Carron Reservoir Dam both offer easy trails. Broadwood Loch features a circular trail popular with local families and dog walkers, and is a great wildlife habitat.
What historical sites can I find near the lakes in Fintry?
The region has lakes with significant history. Craigallian Loch is a historical site known for the 'Craigallian Fire,' a beacon for climbing communities in the 1930s. Banton Loch, once the largest reservoir in Scotland, is near the debated battlefield of the 1645 Battle of Kilsyth.
What kind of walks can I do around the Fintry lochs?
You can find a variety of walks. Carron Reservoir Dam offers nice easy trails. For a flat, paved option, the tarmacked road around Carron Valley Reservoir is great for walking and cycling. Broadwood Loch has a popular circular trail.
Are there dog-friendly trails near the lakes?
Yes, many trails around the lakes are dog-friendly. The circular trail around Broadwood Loch is particularly popular with dog walkers. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially around wildlife.
What outdoor activities are available near the Fintry lakes?
The area around Fintry's lakes offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy options and longer runs from Carron Reservoir Dam. Cycling is popular, with a flat tarmacked road around Carron Valley Reservoir. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Fintry, Gravel biking around Fintry, and Road Cycling Routes around Fintry guides.
Are there accessible lake walks around Fintry?
Yes, some lakes offer accessible options. Carron Valley Reservoir features a flat tarmacked road that follows its length, making it suitable for various users. Carron Reservoir Dam also has easy trails.
What are the best viewpoints in the Fintry lakes area?
Many lakes offer scenic views. Craigallian Loch is noted as a viewpoint, offering atmospheric scenery. Broadwood Loch also serves as a viewpoint, providing a beautiful wildlife habitat within an urban setting.
What is the best time to visit the Fintry lakes?
The Fintry lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for outdoor activities. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter provides a serene, often dramatic landscape, suitable for walks if appropriately dressed for the Scottish weather.
Can I go cycling around the lakes?
Absolutely. Carron Valley Reservoir is particularly well-suited for cycling, featuring a flat tarmacked road along its length. You can find more cycling options in the Gravel biking around Fintry and Road Cycling Routes around Fintry guides.
What is the significance of Carron Valley Reservoir?
Carron Valley Reservoir is a significant man-made lake built in the early 1930s for hydroelectric power. Its dam, opened in 1939, provides water for approximately 135,000 people. It's also a popular spot for scenic cycling due to its flat, tarmacked road.
What makes Banton Loch unique?
Banton Loch, originally known as Townhead Reservoir, was built in 1770 and was once the largest reservoir in Scotland. It played a crucial role in feeding water into the Forth and Clyde Canal. Historically, it's also believed to be in the vicinity of the 1645 Battle of Kilsyth.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes provide important habitats for wildlife. Broadwood Loch, for example, is a beautiful wildlife habitat home to flocks of swans, other water birds, and various insects and underwater life. The natural lochs and reservoirs support diverse ecosystems.
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