Top 7 Lakes around Broxburn
Lakes near Broxburn, while not directly within the town, include several notable lochs and reservoirs in the surrounding area. These water bodies offer various recreational activities and scenic landscapes. The region provides opportunities for walking, cycling, fishing, and wildlife observation.
Best lakes around Broxburn
- The most popular lakes is Threipmuir Reservoir, an other natural area with easy gravel paths and numerous spots for swimming. It is situated at the foot of the Pentland Hills and is suitable for walkers…
Last updated: August 23, 2026
Threipmuir Reservoir
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Harlaw Reservoir
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Beecraigs Loch
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Forest Track Beside Harlow Reservoir
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Dundas Estate Lake
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Tips from the Community
Harlaw Reservoir is a popular spot for outdoor activities including walking, fishing, and wildlife watching. One of the highlights is a small embankment on the far side of the reservoir which offers stunning views of Threipmuir Reservoir. On weekends visitors you can get your hands on some homemade crepes from a local van parked near the Harlaw House Visitor Centre.
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Beautiful spot, relatively easy to cycle through and 360 degrees of beautiful scenery.
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Beecraigs is actually a reservoir built between 1914 - 1918 by German prisoners of war. It was used to supply drinking water but was decommissioned as a reservoir in 1972. It became part of Beecraigs country park in 1980 and is now a popular fishing and walking destination. The path around the edge of the loch is a nice short walk mostly under tree cover.
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The tracks at Harlaw are all gravel but up to this point is fine for a road bike.
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A great alternative to the main track by going through the trees. You'll almost always end up taking a slightly different line in the trees as you weave through the patches of woodland by the side of water. Also a great spot to shelter from the wind if you want to stop for chow.
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Open Water swimming spot, as well as a decent gravel track allowing you to connect to either the western Pentlands, or head north along the High Riggs, or if going east link to the saddle route over to Flotterstone, or through to Torphin to take you back into Edinburgh
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes and reservoirs to visit near Broxburn?
Based on visitor feedback, Threipmuir Reservoir, Harlaw Reservoir, and Beecraigs Loch are highly favored. Threipmuir is known for easy paths and swimming, Harlaw for walking and wildlife, and Beecraigs Loch for fishing and woodland walks within a country park.
Are there family-friendly lakes or parks near Broxburn?
Yes, several spots are great for families. Beecraigs Loch, located within Beecraigs Country Park, offers an animal attraction with native Scottish breeds, an adventure play area, and BBQ pits. Almondell and Calderwood Country Park, with its riverside walks and visitor centre, also provides a play area for children and an aquarium.
Where can I go for easy walking routes around lakes near Broxburn?
Threipmuir Reservoir offers easy gravel paths suitable for walkers and cyclists. Similarly, Beecraigs Loch has a pleasant short walk around its edge, mostly under tree cover, within Beecraigs Country Park.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The lakes and surrounding areas offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, fishing, and wildlife watching. For more structured routes, explore the hiking trails around Broxburn, running trails, or road cycling routes that often pass by these scenic water bodies.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming near Broxburn?
Yes, Threipmuir Reservoir is a popular spot for open water swimming, with numerous access points and a small beach. It's a favorite among locals for this activity.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
The areas around the lakes are rich in wildlife. At Harlaw Reservoir, you can enjoy wildlife watching. Almondell and Calderwood Country Park is a haven for species such as roe deer, foxes, herons, otters, and woodpeckers, and its visitor centre even features an aquarium.
Can I find cafes or refreshments near the lakes?
Yes, near Harlaw Reservoir, a local van often sells homemade crepes on weekends near the Harlaw House Visitor Centre. Beecraigs Country Park, home to Beecraigs Loch, also has a Hideaway Café. Almondell and Calderwood Country Park features a visitor centre with refreshments.
What is the history behind Beecraigs Loch?
Beecraigs Loch was originally built as a reservoir between 1914 and 1918 by German prisoners of war. It was decommissioned in 1972 and became part of Beecraigs Country Park in 1980, now serving as a popular fishing and walking destination. You can find more information about the park's activities on the West Lothian Council website.
Are there good spots for fishing near Broxburn?
Yes, Beecraigs Loch is a popular fishing destination, stocked daily with Rainbow Trout and occasional Brown Trout. Anglers can fish from boats accessed via a main pier. Harlaw Reservoir is also known for fishing.
What are the best lakes for cycling near Broxburn?
Threipmuir Reservoir offers easy gravel paths suitable for cyclists. Beecraigs Country Park, where Beecraigs Loch is located, features mountain bike trails and a dedicated skills area. Additionally, National Cycle Route 75 runs through Almondell and Calderwood Country Park.
Are there any viewpoints offering scenic vistas of the lakes?
Yes, Harlaw Reservoir features a small embankment on its far side that provides stunning views of the nearby Threipmuir Reservoir. Beecraigs Country Park also offers extensive views of the surrounding countryside, including the Forth Valley and Pentland Hills.
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