Top 4 Lakes around Carnoustie
Best lakes around Carnoustie are found in the surrounding area, offering diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. While Carnoustie is known for its coastal bay, the nearby region features several notable freshwater bodies. These include man-made reservoirs and natural lochs, providing varied environments for visitors. The area's geography supports a range of habitats, from woodlands to wetlands.
Best lakes around Carnoustie
- The most popular lakes is Morton Lochs Bird Hide, an other man-made structure that is part of three small lochs important for various waterfowl species. It was designated a National Nature Reserve in 1952 and is known for birdwatching with five bird hides.
- Another must-see spot is Crombie Loch, a lake offering various trails through surrounding forests. Visitors can choose from different length trails and enjoy views of the lake.
- Visitors also love Monikie Reservoirs, two large, man-made freshwater lakes. These reservoirs are a hub for outdoor recreation, including walking, cycling, and angling.
- Carnoustie is known for both natural lochs and man-made reservoirs. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from wildlife havens to recreational parks.
- The lakes around Carnoustie are appreciated by the komoot community, with 16 upvotes and 2 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: October 30, 2026
Tayport Harbour
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Morton Lochs Bird Hide
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Morton Lochs is not a naturally occurring wetland system; it was made by local land owners, the Christie family, in 1906. They initially flooded this area of dune heath for fishing, but it quickly became an important centre for wintering wildfowl. Perhaps the most notable visitor is the teal, which comes in its hundreds at times according to entries made in the record book in the hide. The teal is also the emblem for the NNR, and appears on signs at the entrance to the reserve. Morton Lochs was defined as an NNR in 1952, at the time being the second NNR in the UK.
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Crombie Loch
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My walk, following mostly the “Discovery Trail”, offers also a splendid view of the lake. Some practical info: the car park for the whole day costs 2.80 GBP (May 2020), and you’ll find lots of benches for a nice picnic :p
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Trottick Mill Ponds Local Nature Reserve
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The reserve is home to some diverse wildlife including birds, frogs, swans, water voles and the wonderful otter.
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Monikie Reservoirs
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Tips from the Community
Try the harbour cafe, excellent cake and coffee. Open every day and run by volunteers.
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Definitely a very nice waypoint on the cycle route that's worth a pause for that photo.
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A worthy waypoint on a ride. Worth the wee detour off the main road for a photo opportunity and maybe take a somewhat scenic break for refreshments.
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Enjoy the little oasis that is Trottick Mill Ponds Local Nature Reserve. The reserve is situated in the Trottick area of Dundee and is home to two small ponds that were built almost 200 years ago. The reserve is home to some diverse wildlife including birds, frogs, swans, water voles and the wonderful otter.
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Monikie Country Park is a beautiful public space situated near Dundee in Scotland. The park features two large freshwater reservoirs and invites visitors to fish, sail, walk, and just generally enjoy this refreshing outdoor space.
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A good spot to watch the small boats coming in and out. Decent cafe and pub options too.
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Tayport has a lovely harbour on tha banks of the River Tay. It's a nice place to stop and watch the boats as they travel towards the River Eden. Tentsmuir Forest lies to the east of the harbour.
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Picturesque harbour on cycle route to an from Tentsmuir Forest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes near Carnoustie are best for wildlife observation?
For exceptional wildlife viewing, visit Morton Lochs, part of the Tentsmuir National Nature Reserve. It's known for over 113 bird species, including kingfishers and teal, and you might spot red squirrels. Trottick Mill Ponds Local Nature Reserve also offers diverse wildlife, such as swans, herons, water voles, and even otters.
Are there family-friendly lakes with activities near Carnoustie?
Yes, Monikie Reservoirs in Monikie Country Park is ideal for families, offering an adventure play area, picnic spots, and water sports like windsurfing, sailing, and kayaking. The Angus Aqua Splash inflatable water park is also a popular attraction. Crombie Loch also provides various trails suitable for family strolls through the forest.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around the lakes?
The lakes offer a variety of outdoor activities. At Monikie Reservoirs, you can enjoy walking, cycling, angling, windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, and Stand-Up Paddleboarding. Crombie Loch features various trails for walking through its surrounding forests. For more extensive cycling or running, explore the nearby routes available in the region, such as those found in the Road Cycling Routes around Carnoustie or Running Trails around Carnoustie guides.
Are there accessible paths for wheelchairs or easy walking around the lakes?
Yes, Morton Lochs offers easy, accessible paths suitable for walking, cycling, and wheelchairs. Similarly, Trottick Mill Ponds Local Nature Reserve is known for its easy and accessible paths, making it popular with walkers and families.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Carnoustie?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. For birdwatching, Morton Lochs is particularly significant in winter when hundreds of teal gather. During warmer months, Monikie Reservoirs is a hub for water sports and outdoor recreation.
Do any of the lakes have historical significance?
Yes, Monikie Reservoirs were originally built in the 19th century to supply water to Dundee. Trottick Mill Ponds Local Nature Reserve features two ponds constructed over 200 years ago to provide water for the Claverhouse Bleach Works, a linen production mill.
Are there cafes or facilities available at the lakes?
At Monikie Reservoirs, located within Monikie Country Park, you'll find a café, picnic areas, toilets, and a ranger information service. Crombie Loch also has benches for picnics.
Where can I find parking for the lakes?
There is a small car park beside Morton Lochs. For Crombie Loch, parking is available, with a fee of approximately 2.80 GBP for the whole day (as of May 2020).
Can I go mountain biking near the lakes?
While specific mountain biking trails directly around the lakes are not detailed, the wider Carnoustie area offers various MTB trails. You can explore options in the MTB Trails around Carnoustie guide, which includes routes like 'From East Haven to St Vigeans Ancient Village loop'.
What makes Trottick Mill Ponds Local Nature Reserve worth visiting?
Trottick Mill Ponds Local Nature Reserve is a popular spot for walkers, families, and school groups due to its easy and accessible paths. It's an excellent location for wildlife observation, home to birds like swans and herons, as well as frogs, newts, water voles, and even otters. The reserve has also been awarded a Green Flag for its high maintenance standards. For more details, you can visit the Dundee City Council website.
Are there opportunities for angling or fishing at the lakes?
Yes, Monikie Reservoirs is a popular spot for angling, particularly for brown and rainbow trout. Equipment hire and lessons are often available at the park.
What kind of trails are available at Crombie Loch?
Crombie Loch, located within Crombie Country Park, offers a choice of four different trails of varying lengths. These trails provide fantastic strolls through the surrounding forests and offer splendid views of the loch.
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