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Skelmorlie

Top 6 Lakes around Skelmorlie

Best lakes around Skelmorlie are found in an area characterized by its position on the Clyde Coastline, offering views across the Firth of Clyde. The landscape features moorland and various bodies of water. These include natural lochs and man-made reservoirs, providing diverse opportunities for outdoor activities. The region's waterways are integral to its natural and historical character.

Best lakes around Skelmorlie

  • The most popular lakes is Loch Thom, a reservoir that has supplied drinking water to Greenock and the surrounding area since 1827. It is a popular fishing venue and a scenic area for walks.
  • Another must-see spot is Greenock Cut, a man-made waterway with a circular route. Visitors can start at the Loch Thom / Greenock Cut Visitor Centre, offering ample parking.
  • Visitors also love Gryfe Reservoir Southern Gravel Trail, a trail alongside a reservoir that features undulating gravel paths. It provides a link between different routes, with sections of smooth tarmac and single-track road.
  • Skelmorlie is known for its natural lochs, reservoirs, and man-made fisheries. These bodies of water offer a variety of experiences, from tranquil moorland settings to active fishing spots.
  • The lakes around Skelmorlie are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 upvotes and 5 photos contributed by users.

Last updated: June 30, 2026

Loch Thom

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Loch Thom is a reservoir which has supplied drinking water to Greenock and the surrounding area since 1827. It's a popular fishing venue and pretty area for a walk.

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Gryfe Reservoir Southern Gravel Trail

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Lovely smooth tarmac from the main road, then some undulating gravel past the lochs before rejoining a lovely single track road.

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Greenock Cut

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Start at either Loch Thom / Greenock Cut Visitor Centre or at Overton Road, Greenock where there is both ample parking. Decent quality circular route with slight undulations that aren't too strenuous.

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View of Clyde Valley and Cowal

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Lovely views of the reservoir and surrounding countryside.

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Blaeloch Hill

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An area of moorland, high above the Clyde Coastline.

On top of the hillside, you'll find the small Blae Loch, as well as the remains of a crashed WW2 aircraft.

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Popular around Skelmorlie

Road Cycling Routes around Skelmorlie

MTB Trails around Skelmorlie

Hiking around Skelmorlie

Running Trails around Skelmorlie

Cycling around Skelmorlie

Gravel biking around Skelmorlie

Tips from the Community

Berginsicht
May 23, 2026, View of Clyde Valley and Cowal

Ideal starting point for walking or gravel biking in all directions.

Translated by Google

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Milo
August 28, 2023, Blaeloch Hill

Probably not one to go up for for the views. Kairn Hill close by is probably the nicer one to climb up with better views and a more enjoyable scenery on the way up.

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William Cook
August 20, 2023, Blaeloch Hill

An area of moorland, high above the Clyde Coastline. On top of the hillside, you'll find the small Blae Loch, as well as the remains of a crashed WW2 aircraft.

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51m
March 8, 2023, Loch Thom

Loch Thom is a reservoir which has supplied drinking water to Greenock and the surrounding area since 1827. It's a popular fishing venue and pretty area for a walk.

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Lovely views of the reservoir and surrounding countryside.

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Very bumpy in places. Best direction to go is east to west.

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Allan P.
June 21, 2021, Greenock Cut

Start at either Loch Thom / Greenock Cut Visitor Centre or at Overton Road, Greenock where there is both ample parking. Decent quality circular route with slight undulations that aren't too strenuous.

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a great wee link path providing the perfect link

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular lakes and waterways around Skelmorlie?

Visitors frequently enjoy Loch Thom, a significant reservoir popular for fishing and walks. The Greenock Cut, a man-made waterway, is also a favorite for its circular route and scenic views. Additionally, the Gryfe Reservoir Southern Gravel Trail offers a pleasant path alongside the reservoir.

Are there family-friendly walking options around the lakes?

Yes, both Loch Thom and the Greenock Cut are considered family-friendly. The Greenock Cut, in particular, offers a decent quality circular route with gentle undulations, suitable for various ages.

Where can I go fishing near Skelmorlie?

For fishing enthusiasts, Loch Thom is a popular venue. Additionally, Skelmorlie Fishery is a dedicated man-made stillwater regularly stocked with various trout species, offering a consistent and challenging fishing experience.

What kind of natural features and views can I expect around Skelmorlie's lakes?

The area offers diverse natural beauty. Blae Loch, situated on Blaeloch Hill, provides tranquil moorland scenery and panoramic views across the Firth of Clyde. Skelmorlie Fishery, while man-made, boasts breathtaking views of the Argyll Hills and Arrochar Alps. The Greenock Cut also offers excellent viewpoints along its route.

Are there historical points of interest near any of the lakes?

Yes, near Blae Loch on Blaeloch Hill, you can find the remains of a crashed WWII aircraft. Historically, the Skelmorlie Reservoir was significant, though it is now drained. You can learn more about its past, including a tragic disaster, through historical accounts and memorials. For more details on the Skelmorlie Reservoir disaster, you can visit naheritage.co.uk.

What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?

The lakes around Skelmorlie are excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, road cycling, and general cycling. For detailed routes, explore the hiking guide, road cycling guide, and cycling guide for Skelmorlie, which feature routes like the Loch Thom & Dunrod Hill Moors loop and the Great Cumbrae island loop.

Are there specific hiking trails around the lakes?

Absolutely. Popular hiking trails include those around Loch Thom and the circular route of the Greenock Cut. For more options, including routes like the 'Loch Thom & Dunrod Hill Moors loop', check out the Hiking around Skelmorlie guide.

Is there parking available for visiting the lakes?

Yes, for the Greenock Cut, there is ample parking available at either the Loch Thom / Greenock Cut Visitor Centre or at Overton Road, Greenock, making it convenient to start your visit.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Skelmorlie?

Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse experiences offered, from the tranquil moorland setting of Blae Loch with its panoramic views to the active fishing opportunities at Loch Thom and Skelmorlie Fishery. The well-maintained trails, like the Greenock Cut, are also highly valued for walking and cycling.

Can I cycle around any of the lakes?

Yes, the Gryfe Reservoir Southern Gravel Trail is suitable for cycling, featuring undulating gravel paths and sections of smooth tarmac. You can find more cycling routes, including those around Loch Thom, in the Cycling around Skelmorlie guide.

What is Blae Loch and what makes it unique?

Blae Loch is a small, natural freshwater loch located on Blaeloch Hill, high above the Clyde Coastline. It's a post-glacial kettle hole, known for its tranquil moorland setting and the stunning panoramic views it offers across the Firth of Clyde. It's often included in hiking routes for its natural beauty and the nearby remains of a crashed WWII aircraft. You can find more information about Blae Loch on Wikipedia.

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