Loch Katrine
Lake Scenic loch supplying Glasgow's water, popular for cruises
Highland loch in the Trossachs where a Victorian steamship still operates; visitors take boat trips, cycle the shoreline and walk forest paths used historically for Glasgow’s water supply.
Loch Katrine is a freshwater loch in the Trossachs area of central Scotland that has been an important water supply reservoir for the city of Glasgow since the 19th century. The loch lies within a wooded and mountainous landscape and is a focal point for recreational boating and walking.
The loch was incorporated into Glasgow’s Victorian aqueduct system, which was completed in the 1850s and 1860s, and it continues to function as part of the regional water supply infrastructure. Pleasure cruises operate on the loch and visitors use trails and viewpoints along the shoreline.
The loch sits in the Trossachs area within the Stirling council area in central Scotland, surrounded by hills and forest, and is accessible from nearby towns and visitor centres in the region.
- Glasgow water supply: Since the mid-19th century the loch has served as a source of potable water for Glasgow through an aqueduct scheme completed in 1859.
- Steamboat excursions: A historic steam excursion vessel operates on the loch and is a popular way for visitors to see the water and surrounding Trossachs scenery.
How to Get to Loch Katrine #
Drive from Glasgow (about 1-1.5 hours) via the A82 and A84 to the Trossachs; the loch’s main visitor pier is near Trossachs Pier. Trains to Callander followed by local bus/taxi are options.
Tips for Visiting Loch Katrine #
- Take the historic steamship if running (seasonal) for an old-world perspective on the loch.
- For the classic Loch Katrine experience, walk part of the 19th-century perimeter path built to supply Glasgow with water - the Victorian engineering is part of the story.
- Arrive early in high season to avoid coach-group crowds at the pier.
Best Time to Visit Loch Katrine #
Summer for boats and walks; autumn for color and quieter paths.
Weather & Climate near Loch Katrine #
Loch Katrine's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 0°C to 17°C. Abundant rainfall (1788 mm/year), wettest in January.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (224 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (146 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (150 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 5°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 8°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (125 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (170 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 6°C. Heavy rain (202 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (196 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (195 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
