Best lakes around Abronhill And Arns are situated in North Lanarkshire, Scotland, offering a variety of natural and man-made water features. The area, particularly near Cumbernauld, provides access to several lochs and reservoirs. These bodies of water serve as significant wildlife habitats and offer opportunities for outdoor activities. The landscape includes woodlands, grasslands, and peat bog environments, contributing to the region's natural appeal.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Abronhill And Arns.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
These are two really pretty lochs here that are located adjacent to Palacerigg Country Park. There is a sailing club there, fishing and some nice walking trails too. There are acually several combinations of trails here, but if you combine a walk through the park and the lochs, then keep an eye out for the wildlife. It's also a very tranquil place with lovely views across the calm waters to the surrounding hills and countryside.
3
0
Ah, Banton Loch, or as it was once known, Townhead Reservoir. Now, there’s a place that’s brimming with stories. It’s nestled on the east side of Kilsyth in North Lanarkshire, Scotland, a mere 21 kilometres north-east of Glasgow. This man-made marvel, built in 1770 to feed water into the canal, was once the largest reservoir in Scotland. It’s a freshwater lake, impounded by earthwork dams, sitting pretty at 86 metres above sea level. The loch stretches about 1 kilometre in length with a maximum width of about 280 metres1. It’s fed by a number of burns draining the Kilsyth Hills to its north. Now, if you’re a history buff, you’ll be thrilled to know that the battlefield of the 15 August 1645 Battle of Kilsyth between Scottish Royalists and Covenanters is thought to be in the vicinity of the loch. The exact position remains a subject of debate, but it’s a fascinating piece of history nonetheless.
0
0
Opened in 1939 Carron Valley Reservoir provides water for about 135,000 people. There are nice easy trails around the reservoir or the managed woodland or use this as a base to start a longer run up Meikle Bin or one of the other hills.
0
0
Braodwood Loch was created in 1994 when a dam was built across the burn as part of a flood remediation scheme, it helps control water downstream. Today it's a beautiful wildlife habitat within the urban area of Cumbernauld. The loch is home to flocks of swans and other water birds as well as lots of insects and underwater life. The circular trail around the loch is popular with local families and dog walkers.
0
0
Halfway between Edinburgh and Glasgow Black loch is a small but pretty loch in a rural setting. It'll probably just be you and sheep enjoying the view.
0
0
For a tranquil setting, consider Fannyside Lochs, which consists of two lochs adjacent to Palacerigg Country Park. It offers walking trails and opportunities for wildlife observation with calm waters and views of the surrounding hills. Another option is Black Loch, a small loch in a rural setting where you can enjoy quiet views.
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Broadwood Loch in Cumbernauld is particularly popular, featuring a circular trail that is great for families and dog walkers. Fannyside Lochs and Carron Valley Reservoir are also listed as family-friendly options, offering various activities and scenic routes.
The lakes in the region are significant wildlife habitats. At Broadwood Loch, you can spot various bird species like swans, geese, great crested grebes, and goosanders. Damselflies and dragonflies are common in summer, and great spotted woodpeckers can be heard in the surrounding woodlands. Fannyside Lochs also offers opportunities for wildlife observation.
Absolutely. Broadwood Loch has a popular circular trail that is easy and suitable for strolls. For more options, you can find several easy hiking routes near the lakes, such as the 'Fannyside Lochs – Palacerigg Treetop Walkway loop' or the 'Badger Trail – Fannyside Lochs loop', both starting from Palacerigg Cottages. You can explore these and other easy hikes on the Easy hikes around Abronhill And Arns guide.
Yes, Carron Valley Reservoir is an excellent spot for cycling. It features a flat tarmacked road along its entire length, making it a very scenic route for cyclists. You can find more cycling routes in the area, including gravel biking options, by checking the Gravel biking around Abronhill And Arns guide.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the best opportunities for wildlife spotting, especially damselflies and dragonflies at Broadwood Loch. The warmer months are also ideal for walking and cycling. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, though some trails might be muddy.
Yes, many trails around the lakes are dog-friendly. The circular trail around Broadwood Loch is particularly popular with dog walkers. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock.
Carron Valley Reservoir is a scenic man-made lake built in the early 1930s as part of a hydroelectric power project. The associated Carron Reservoir Dam, opened in 1939, provides water for approximately 135,000 people.
While many trails around the immediate lake areas are easy to moderate, you can use the lakes as a base for longer, more challenging hikes. For instance, from Carron Reservoir Dam, you can start a longer run up Meikle Bin or other nearby hills. For more hiking options, refer to the Hiking around Abronhill And Arns guide.
Visitors appreciate the variety of natural and man-made water features, from tranquil rural settings to larger bodies of water with recreational paths. The peaceful atmosphere, accessibility, and opportunities for wildlife watching are frequently highlighted. The komoot community has shown strong engagement, with over 30 upvotes and 9 photos shared for the lakes in the area.
While specific parking details for each lake are not always provided, popular spots like Broadwood Loch, being an urban oasis, typically have accessible parking. For other locations like Fannyside Lochs, parking is usually available near Palacerigg Country Park.
The provided information focuses on the natural aspects of the lakes. While specific cafes or pubs directly adjacent to each lake are not detailed, the lakes are generally located near towns like Cumbernauld (for Broadwood Loch) where you can find local amenities.


Still not found your perfect lake around Abronhill And Arns? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.