Loch Ardinning

Loch Ardinning is a picturesque wildlife haven with areas of wetland, woodland and moorland. Mature willow, birch and alder thrive in the wetlands along the south west shore and reeds, rushes and sedges fringe the northern shores.

Why visit?

Highlights include:

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

Best time to visit?

  • Apr to Sep for butterflies
  • May to Aug for wildflowers
  • Jun to Aug for water lobelia
  • Oct to Mar for wildfowl

Visit for:

  • birdwatching
  • woodlands
  • wildflowers
  • scenery
  • wetland
  • pond
  • butterflies

Other information

The loch is rich in invertebrates, particularly butterflies and dragonflies, and the delicate water lobelia, a local speciality, is in full flower in July.

The loch is an important wildlife habitat, fishing is not permitted on the loch.

Two walks around the reserve provide plenty of opportunity to appreciate the diversity of habitats and wildlife. The shorter ‘nature trail walk’ is an aggregate path throughout while the longer ‘muir path’ is wilder and wetter and stout footwear is recommended.

Facilities

Hover for more information

VISITING THE RESERVE

How to get there

Directions

From Glasgow, take the A81 (Aberfoyle Road). The reserve is about 2.5 miles north of Milngavie. The main parking area is a layby on the east side of the A81, about 100m south of the dam. Please do not park in the utility area at the dam (marked NO PARKING) as this parking area is for the use of staff, contractors, volunteers and emergency services.

Get directions

Getting onto the reserve

Well marked paths run straight from the parking areas.
Please take care on the Muir path which can be slippery and muddy after wet weather.

Access restrictions

Please adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code while on the reserve and keep dogs on a lead or under close control (two metres from the owner and on a path) as uncontrolled dogs can displace wildlife, cause anxiety to other visitors and pose a safety risk to staff and contractors working on the reserve. A member of staff may ask you to control your dog.

Nearest town
Strathblane (1 mi / 1.6 km)
OS grid ref
NS564777
Landranger map
64

FURTHER READING

About Loch Ardinning

Out & about

Nearby reserves
Possil Marsh

Links & downloads

Reserve leaflet

Reserve map

iSpot

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