Top 7 Lakes in North Ayrshire
Best lakes in North Ayrshire include several notable lochs and reservoirs, offering diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The region is characterized by its freshwater lochs, hill lochs, and even a restored tidal pool, providing varied landscapes for exploration. These water bodies are often nestled amidst hills or within moorland, contributing to the area's scenic appeal. North Ayrshire provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking and enjoying tranquil natural settings.
Best lakes in North Ayrshire
- The most popular lakes is Coire Fhionn Lochan, a natural monument that is a pristine lochan with clear waters and a white gravel beach. It is a natural wonder set amidst the striking Arran hills.
- Another must-see spot is Saltcoats Bathing Pond, a restored tidal pool. It attracts wild swimmers and was once considered Scotland's finest outdoor pool.
- Visitors also love Loch Garbad, a beautiful hill loch on the Isle of Arran. It offers a remote and peaceful location for a picnic.
- North Ayrshire is known for its freshwater lochs, hill lochs, and reservoirs. These include natural features like Blae Loch and functional water bodies such as Camphill Reservoir.
- The lakes in North Ayrshire are appreciated by the komoot community, with 12 upvotes and 6 photos shared across 7 highlights.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Saltcoats Bathing Pond
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Loch Garbad
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Coire Fhionn Lochan
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View of Brodick Bay
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Brodick Beach
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Blaeloch Hill
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On top of the hillside, you'll find the small Blae Loch, as well as the remains of a crashed WW2 aircraft.
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Camphill Reservoir
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View of Cumbrae and the Clyde from Fairlie
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Shewalton Pond
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Popular around North Ayrshire
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Tips from the Community
If attempting to hike towards Glenashdale Falls - Left of loch, a lot of deforestation & uprooted trees blocking visibility/pathway. Unable to find much of a path without roughly following app but had to abandon once a path leading to Whiting Bay/Kildonan. Forest area was extremely soft moss/boggy. Don’t attempt besides enjoying the spot at the picnic part by the loch.
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From here you get wonderful views looking down onto Brodick Bay. The calm waters of the bay are ideal for swimming and there is alot of wildlife present too including seals, seabirds and other marine life.
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When it rains, the rain unfolds its mystical aura. Crossing the stream is also quite slippery. The rest of the path along the lake is also quite adventurous.
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You've got to be seen it to believe it. It is truly a wonder of nature. On a windy and partly misty day like this, the colour changes every second.
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July 8: the trip went through a swamp. You can't get through without wet feet. Because everything is green, it is not visible where you can walk and where there are ditches. You fall through everything.
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Cumbrae is easily accessed via regular ferries from Largs. It has one very flat road following it’s coast approx 10 miles and another road climbing to the Glaid Trig point and great views to Ben Lomond and the Cobbler.
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Shewalton Pond also known as Bookers Pond is a spot where you’ll find many cold water swimmers, paddle boarders etc
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find in North Ayrshire?
North Ayrshire features a diverse range of water bodies, including freshwater lochs, remote hill lochs, and functional reservoirs. You'll also find unique features like Saltcoats Bathing Pond, a restored tidal pool, offering varied experiences for visitors.
Are there any lakes suitable for family activities in North Ayrshire?
Yes, Shewalton Pond is noted as family-friendly. Additionally, Kilbirnie Loch offers Lochshore Park, which includes a natural playpark and a 5-kilometer nature loop, perfect for walks and picnics with children. The View of Cumbrae and the Clyde from Fairlie is also listed as family-friendly, providing scenic views.
Where can I go wild swimming in North Ayrshire?
For a unique wild swimming experience, visit Saltcoats Bathing Pond. This restored tidal pool was once considered Scotland's finest outdoor pool and now attracts wild swimmers.
What natural features can I explore around North Ayrshire's lochs?
You can discover stunning natural beauty, such as the pristine waters and white gravel beach of Coire Fhionn Lochan on the Isle of Arran. Blae Loch is a natural post-glacial kettle hole, surrounded by moorland. Kilbirnie Loch is a significant freshwater loch and a Scottish Wildlife Trust designated Local Site for Nature Conservation.
Are there historical sites or points of interest near the lakes?
Yes, near Blae Loch, you can find the remains of a crashed WWII aircraft on the moorland of Blaeloch Hill, adding an element of historical exploration. Saltcoats Bathing Pond itself has a rich history, built in 1932 on the site of former saltpans.
What outdoor activities are available near North Ayrshire's lakes?
Beyond walking, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Kilbirnie Loch is popular for fishing, stocked with rainbow trout, pike, and roach. For cycling, explore routes like the 'Great Cumbrae island loop' or 'Largs to Loch Thom loop' as part of the Road Cycling Routes in North Ayrshire. Mountain biking options are also available, such as the 'Glenashdale Wood & The Ross loop' from the Gravel biking in North Ayrshire guide.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes in North Ayrshire?
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. Kilbirnie Loch offers a 5-kilometer nature loop at Lochshore Park. On the Isle of Arran, you can find trails leading to Loch Garbad, though some areas can be challenging and swampy. For more extensive hiking, consider routes like the 'Goatfell Trail' or 'King's Cave loop' from the Hiking in North Ayrshire guide.
What is the best time to visit North Ayrshire's lakes for walking?
While specific seasonal conditions vary, generally spring and summer offer milder weather for walking. However, some areas like Loch Garbad can be wet and slippery, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is always recommended. The mystical aura of the lochs can be enjoyed even on a windy or misty day, as noted by visitors to Coire Fhionn Lochan.
Can I find remote and peaceful spots among North Ayrshire's lakes?
Absolutely. Loch Garbad on the Isle of Arran is described as a beautiful hill loch offering a remote and peaceful location ideal for a picnic. Blae Loch, situated in a hollow beneath Blaelochhead Hill, also provides a sense of seclusion within its moorland surroundings.
What are Camphill Reservoir's features?
Camphill Reservoir is an earth embankment dam constructed in 1881. It was originally built to supply drinking water to Paisley and is now operated by Scottish Water. While primarily functional, it offers scenic walking routes and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in a managed natural environment.
Are there cafes or facilities near the lakes?
Lochshore Park, surrounding Kilbirnie Loch, offers a cafe and workshop space, providing amenities for visitors. For other lakes, it's advisable to check local listings for nearby cafes or plan to bring your own refreshments, especially for more remote locations like Loch Garbad.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in North Ayrshire?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking natural beauty, such as the clear waters and white gravel beach of Coire Fhionn Lochan. The opportunity for peaceful picnics in remote settings like Loch Garbad and the unique wild swimming experience at Saltcoats Bathing Pond are also highly valued.
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Most popular attractions in North Ayrshire
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