Balgavies Loch

Balgavies Loch has long been recognised by naturalists as an important site for wildlife. This inland loch is surrounded by reedbeds and willow carr, attracting water rail, great crested grebe and a number of wintering wildfowl, including goldeneye, teal and wigeon. The reserve is a haven for red squirrel.

Why visit?

Highlights include:

  • Varied selection of wildflowers
  • Wide range of wild and waterfowl
  • Many breeding songbirds
  • Circular path around the reserve

Best time to visit?

  • Apr – Jul for flowers
  • Apr – Jul for breeding birds
  • Oct – Mar for wildfowl

Visit for:

  • birdwatching
  • woodlands
  • wildflowers

Other information

Tufted loosestrife and coral root orchid can be found on the reserve.

Facilities

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VISITING THE RESERVE

How to get there

Directions

Balgavies Loch lies north of the A932, 4 miles east of Forfar.

Get directions

Getting onto the reserve

Access can be gained from the signposted viewpoint on the northern side of the A932. Access to the car park is a few hundred metres to the west of the viewpoint. The hide is located approximately 50 metres from the car park.

Access restrictions

The reserve is wheelchair accessible from the car park to the old railway station.
Please be aware that cattle graze parts of the reserve at certain times of the year.

Nearest town
Forfar (4 mi / 6.4 km)
OS grid ref
NO523516
Landranger map
54

FURTHER READING

About Balgavies Loch

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