Top 8 Lakes in North Lanarkshire
Best lakes in North Lanarkshire offer diverse natural beauty and historical significance within a varied landscape. The region features a range of water bodies, from large man-made reservoirs that once supplied canals to natural lochs nestled within country parks. These areas provide opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife observation. North Lanarkshire's lakes are notable destinations, reflecting a blend of industrial heritage and natural environments.
Best lakes in North Lanarkshire
- The most popular lakes is Strathclyde Loch, a trail that offers extensive opportunities for walking, cycling, and water sports. It is located within Strathclyde Country Park, which also contains historical sites like Bothwellhaugh Roman Fort.
- Another must-see spot is Fannyside Lochs, a lake with a sailing club, fishing, and walking trails. These two lochs are adjacent to Palacerigg Country Park and offer tranquil views across calm waters.
- Visitors also love Lochend Loch, an other natural loch set in Drumpellier Park. It provides light gravel paths through woodlands and around the loch, ideal for spotting resident and migratory waterfowl.
- North Lanarkshire is known for its man-made reservoirs, natural lochs, and fishing lakes. These water bodies offer a variety of landscapes and activities to explore.
- The lakes in North Lanarkshire are appreciated by the komoot community. There are 41 upvotes and 7 photos across the highlights, showcasing their appeal.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Strathclyde Loch
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Lochend Loch
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Fannyside Lochs
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Waterfront Café, Strathclyde Country Park
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Carron Reservoir Dam
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Banton Loch
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Broadwood Loch
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Auchinstarry Quarry
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Wildlife Pond Near Brow Farm
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Tips from the Community
“Strathclyde Loch is more than just water: beneath its surface, Bothwellhaugh, a mining village swept away in the 1970s, vanished. Today, only a cairn remains as a reminder of the houses, schools, and shops. There's also a Roman fort and an ancient road (yes, Watling Street is still here). Final warning: In 2012, a norovirus outbreak left 57 swimmers unconscious. Water caution.
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Always great pictures, beautiful impressions, or amazing panoramic shots... A worthwhile ✅🚲—tour around the loch (lake)😅😅
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Just off Jura Road this is a nice peaceful spot for a break. You will see many species of Damselflies and Dragonflies as well as Butterflies and the occasional duck and ducklings.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What activities can I enjoy at the lakes in North Lanarkshire?
North Lanarkshire's lakes offer a wide range of activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and water sports like rowing, windsurfing, and canoeing at Strathclyde Loch. Fishing is popular at Hillend Loch and Fannyside Lochs, while tranquil walks and wildlife spotting are ideal at Lochend Loch and Broadwood Loch.
Are there family-friendly lakes in North Lanarkshire?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Strathclyde Loch within Strathclyde Country Park offers walking, cycling, water sports, and is near M&D's Theme Park. Lochend Loch in Drumpellier Park has light gravel paths and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Broadwood Loch also features a popular circular trail suitable for families.
Which lakes are best for walking and cycling?
Strathclyde Loch offers extensive paths for walking and cycling. Hillend Loch is part of the Hillend Loch Railway Path and National Cycle Route 75. Broadwood Loch has a pleasant circular trail, and Carron Reservoir Dam provides easy trails around its perimeter.
Where can I go fishing in North Lanarkshire?
Hillend Loch is renowned for high-quality trout fishing, regularly stocked with brown and rainbow trout. Fannyside Lochs also offer fishing opportunities. For specimen carp and mixed coarse fishing, Greenhill Lakes provides a peaceful setting with fish over 20 lbs.
What historical sites can be found near the lakes?
Near Strathclyde Loch, you can find the ruins of Bothwellhaugh Roman Baths and the vanished mining village of Bothwellhaugh beneath the loch's surface. Hillend Loch was historically one of the largest man-made reservoirs, supplying the Monkland Canal. Banton Loch, built in 1770, played a significant role in feeding the Forth and Clyde Canal.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting around the lakes?
Yes, many lakes are rich in wildlife. Strathclyde Loch is home to swans, ducks, and geese. Hillend Loch and its surroundings provide habitat for migratory birds, waterfowl, roe deer, and otters. Broadwood Loch is a sanctuary for swans and other water birds, while Lochend Loch is ideal for spotting resident and migratory waterfowl and various fungi in autumn.
Are there cafes or facilities near any of the lakes?
Yes, the Waterfront Café is located in the water sports centre at Strathclyde Country Park, offering light meals, snacks, and drinks. It's open daily from 10:00 - 15:30.
What kind of hiking trails are available near the lakes?
You'll find a variety of hiking trails. For example, you can do an easy loop around Strathclyde Loch or a moderate hike like the 'Meikle Bin & Carron Valley Reservoir loop'. Many trails are family-friendly, such as those around Lochend Loch. For more options, explore the Hiking in North Lanarkshire guide.
Can I cycle around the lakes in North Lanarkshire?
Absolutely. Strathclyde Loch offers an easy loop, and Hillend Loch is part of National Cycle Route 75. You can also find routes like the 'Forth and Clyde Canal – Auchinstarry Marina loop'. For more cycling adventures, check out the Cycling in North Lanarkshire guide.
Are there any running routes near the lakes?
Yes, the lakes provide excellent settings for running. You can find moderate routes like the 'Strathclyde Loch loop' or easier options such as the 'Lochend Loch loop'. For more challenging runs, consider routes like 'Tomtain & Meikle Bin loop from Carron Valley Reservoir'. Discover more in the Running Trails in North Lanarkshire guide.
What is unique about Broadwood Loch?
Broadwood Loch, created in 1994 as a flood remediation scheme, has transformed into a significant wildlife habitat. It's known as a sanctuary for flocks of swans and other water birds, offering a peaceful circular trail popular with local families and dog walkers.
What is the significance of Hillend Loch?
Hillend Loch holds historical importance as one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the world when constructed between 1797 and 1799. It was built to supply water to the Monkland Canal. Today, it's also a popular spot for trout fishing and forms part of the Hillend Loch Railway Path and National Cycle Route 75. You can learn more about its history on Wikipedia.
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