Cathkin Marsh

Cathkin Marsh is a beautiful area of fen and marshy grassland. It is home to many birds, including snipe, water rail and reed bunting which can be viewed from the hide. Butterflies and dragonflies can be seen and there are attractive displays of wildflowers during the summer.

Why visit?

Highlights include:

  • Fantastic views of birds from the hide
  • Explosions of colour from wildflowers
  • Colourful butterflies and dragonflies
  • User-friendly paths across the reserve

Best time to visit?

  • Apr to Sep for dragonflies
  • Apr to Sep for butterflies
  • May to Aug for wildflowers
  • Oct to Feb for wintering snipe

Visit for:

  • birdwatching
  • grasslands
  • wildflowers
  • scenery
  • butterflies

Other information

Facilities

Hover for more information

VISITING THE RESERVE

How to get there

Directions

Take the M77 from Glasgow. Exit at Junction 3 and follow the A726 to East Kilbride. After 3.5 miles, turn left onto Carmunnock Road (B759) to Carmunnock village. From the village, continue north along Cathkin Road (B759) for about 0.5 miles then turn right onto a minor road. The reserve is located about 1 mile on the left. There is space for two cars to park opposite the reserve entrance.

Get directions

Getting onto the reserve

Access to the reserve is through a wooden gate and down the hedged track.

Access restrictions

The ground over the marsh itself can be quite soft, particularly during winter, so it’s a good idea to stick to the paths. Take care near open water.

Nearest town
East Kilbride (2 mi / 3.2 km)
OS grid ref
NS621574
Landranger map
64

FURTHER READING

About Cathkin Marsh

Out & about

Nearby reserves
Possil Marsh
Loch Libo
Garrion Gill

Local group
Glasgow

Links & downloads

Reserve map

iSpot

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