Loch Katrine Lake

Address: Loch Katrine, Trossachs region, Scotland - near the village of Tighnabruaich and the town of Callander

Hours: Always open (outdoor loch); boat services seasonal

Admission: Free to visit (boat-ferry for steamship has fee)

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.

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.

• 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.