Top 9 Lakes around Alloa
Best lakes around Alloa are found in Central Scotland, a region known for its diverse natural landscape and proximity to scenic lochs. While Alloa itself is situated near the River Forth, the surrounding areas offer access to several notable lochs, including those within Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. In Scotland, the term "loch" is commonly used for what is known as a "lake" elsewhere, referring to both freshwater bodies and sea inlets.
Best lakes around Alloa
- The most popular lakes is Gartmorn Dam Beach, a beach that is locally known as a dam, created in 1713 to power coal mines. This artificial body of water was historically used to provide water for Alloa's industrial development.
- Another must-see spot is Gartmorn Dam, a viewpoint and nature reserve managed by Clackmannanshire council. Visitors can explore a network of paths around the loch, which is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
- Visitors also love Cambus Pools Wildlife Reserve, a wetland reserve with reedbeds, grassland, and open water. This area attracts various wildlife, including waders, warblers, and wildfowl.
- Alloa is known for its diverse range of water bodies, including historic dams, natural lochs, and wildlife reserves. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, each with unique features and opportunities for outdoor activities.
- The lakes around Alloa are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and 2 photos shared by users.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Gartmorn Dam Beach
Highlight • Beach
A weir was built on the Black Devon river at Forestmill and a lade aqueduct dug out 2 miles to the marshy hollow that was then Gartmorn.
An earthen dam held back the water providing a constant supply for Sauchie Pumps. Once this Dam was full it was flushed through a pipe system and with the flow of water silt which had built up in Alloa Harbour was removed making it easy for Ships to Dock in Alloa. Thus the water went full cycle and was completely regenerated.
The tail race down to the forth from the Gartmorn Dam together with the flow from local burns provided power for Alloa industries such as Tobacco snuff and corn grinding which were later replaced by distilling brewing and spinning. Before steam power took over in the 1860’s the tail race powered up to three colliery engines and 9 mills
In the early 19th Century Alloa grew in population and more demand was needed for water. In 1820 the Earl of Mar granted the Burgh the right to extract water from the tail race in 1891 the Alloa water act was passed and the reservoir was in enlarged and filter station was built the dam was then able to supply to the growing pop and local industry and did so for the next 100 years
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Gartmorn Dam
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Today it's a nature reserve with a good network of paths allowing you to walk around the loch and explore the reserve.
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Cambus Pools Wildlife Reserve
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Swanswater Fishery
Highlight • Lake
Swanswater Fishery offers excellent fishing for trout for the bank angler as well as those that prefer fishing from a boat as there are a few boats available on Swanswater. (Float Tubes can also be hired). Located in Bannockburn, Stirling it is ideally situated for anglers visiting the City of Stirling and Central Scotland.
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Little Loch
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Tips from the Community
Watch the anglers catching trout from bank and boat.
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If you are looking for a peaceful retreat to enjoy nature, you might want to visit Gartmorn Dam Country Park and Nature Reserve near Sauchie. It is the oldest reservoir in Scotland and covers an area of 370 acres. You can walk, cycle, horse ride or fish around the 170 acre reservoir, which has fine views over Clackmannanshire and the Firth of Forth. You can also spot red squirrels and migratory wildfowl in the park, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The dam was built by Sir John Erskine, the 6th Earl of Mar, in 1700 to power the pumps for his coal mines. It also provided water for Alloa's industrial development, especially the breweries. There is a cafe, free parking and wheelchair access at the park.
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Can be busy in summer months. Cormorants and herons a common sight.
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Gartmorn Dam is a loch, country park and nature reserve managed by Clackmannanshire council. The loch was built by Sir John Erskine, the 6th Earl of Mar, to power the pumps which drained his coal mines. Today it's a nature reserve with a good network of paths allowing you to walk around the loch and explore the reserve.
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Normally quiet calm place with a seal today during high tide. All the trees are blackened by a fungus which thrives on fumes from the surrounding whisky distillery.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a 'lake' and a 'loch' in Scotland?
In Scotland, the term "loch" is commonly used for what is known as a "lake" elsewhere. It can refer to both freshwater bodies and sea inlets. Uniquely, the Lake of Menteith is known as "Scotland's only lake" by name, despite being a freshwater body.
Which lakes near Alloa are known for their historical significance?
The Lake of Menteith is historically significant as it once provided refuge to Mary Queen of Scots on Inchmahome Priory. Gartmorn Dam itself is a historic artificial body of water, created in 1713 to power coal mines and later supplied water for Alloa's industrial development.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Alloa?
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. For walking and cycling, areas like Gartmorn Dam Country Park offer networks of paths. Loch Lomond provides opportunities for watersports such as fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and powerboating. For more extensive cycling routes, consider exploring the Cycling around Alloa guide, or for hiking, the Mountain Hikes around Alloa guide.
Are there family-friendly lakes with easy access near Alloa?
Yes, Gartmorn Dam Country Park is considered family-friendly with a good network of paths and wheelchair access. Cambus Pools Wildlife Reserve is also family-friendly, offering a quiet place to observe wildlife.
Which lochs near Alloa are best for watersports and exploring islands?
Loch Lomond, located within the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, is ideal for watersports such as fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and powerboating. You can also explore its 20 islands by boat.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes around Alloa?
At Cambus Pools Wildlife Reserve, you can spot waders, warblers, and wildfowl, including reed buntings. Gartmorn Dam is a Site of Special Scientific Interest where you might see cormorants, herons, red squirrels, and migratory wildfowl. Loch Lomond is home to red deer, beaver, and red squirrel.
Are there any hidden gem lakes or lesser-known spots worth visiting near Alloa?
Loch Chon, surrounded by forestry near Aberfoyle, is considered a hidden gem. It offers sheltered waters and is steeped in local folklore, with tales of a resident kelpie and a large population of fairies, making it a unique spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Can I find cafes or facilities near the lakes around Alloa?
Yes, Gartmorn Dam Country Park has a cafe and free parking. While specific cafes for other lochs are not detailed, many popular lochs in the wider region, like Loch Lomond, have visitor centers and amenities nearby.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Alloa?
The summer months can be busy at popular spots like Gartmorn Dam. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for walking and exploring, with fewer crowds. Winter can be beautiful, especially at the Lake of Menteith, which is known to freeze over, sometimes allowing for curling.
Are there dog-friendly walking options around the lakes?
Many of the paths around Gartmorn Dam Country Park are suitable for dog walking. Generally, most outdoor areas in Scotland are dog-friendly, but it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or wildlife, and to check specific local regulations.
Are there any lochs near Alloa that are particularly scenic for photography?
Loch Lomond offers expansive views, especially from viewpoints like Conic Hill, making it excellent for photography. Loch Katrine, nestled between mountains, provides serene waters and picturesque landscapes, often enhanced by the historic Sir Walter Scott steamship. Loch Ard also offers lush greenery and woodlands, ideal for scenic shots.
What makes Loch Katrine a notable destination near Alloa?
Loch Katrine is notable for its serene waters, historical association with Rob Roy MacGregor, and the iconic Sir Walter Scott steamship, which has cruised its waters for over a century. Views from the summit of Ben Venue also reveal Loch Katrine along with several other lochs, making it a scenic and culturally rich destination.
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