Best lakes around Longforgan, a village in Perth and Kinross, Scotland, are situated within a region known for its diverse natural beauty. The area is characterized by its proximity to the Sidlaw Hills, offering varied landscapes. While Longforgan itself does not host large lochs directly, several significant lakes are located nearby. These provide destinations for outdoor activities and natural exploration.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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This spot within Riverside Nature Park is great to watch wading birds like redshank, oystercatcher and curlew feeding in the pools or out on the Tay estuary mudflats. Skylarks and buntings breed in the grassy areas, and in autumn and winter large flocks of pink-footed geese gather alongside many other waders.
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From here, if you don't wish to stop on the ridge, there's a track that drops down giving access to Long Loch.
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A plentiful supply and mix of dirt and gravel paths and tracks.
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Two adjacent paths along the loch's north side: a tree root-laden dirt path near the loch edge and a much smoother path a few metres inland. Both paths give easy access to Northballo Hill to the west.
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Enjoy the little oasis that is Trottick Mill Ponds Local Nature Reserve. The reserve is situated in the Trottick area of Dundee and is home to two small ponds that were built almost 200 years ago. The reserve is home to some diverse wildlife including birds, frogs, swans, water voles and the wonderful otter.
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As you make your way along the ridge of the Lundie Craigs, you will be afforded some unforgettable views over Long Loch and the surrounding countryside of the county of Angus.
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Laird's Loch is a beautiful lake surrounded by woodland situated in the Sidlaw Hills near Dundee. From the loch, you will be afforded incredible views over Perthshire, Angus, Dundee and Fife. Look out for the stunning blue dragonflies whilst you're there.
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Clatto Country Park on the northern fringe of Dundee is a large reservoir and areas of woodland. A network of paths circles the reservoir and wind through the woodland. The reservoir is a nice short loop and it's easy to make a longer walk by starting in Dundee or exploring the trails further. The reservoir was constructed in 1874 to supply water to Dundee but it's no longer on the supply network.
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The area around Longforgan features a variety of water bodies, including natural lochs, man-made reservoirs, and smaller ponds. These offer diverse experiences, from scenic viewpoints to wildlife observation and recreational activities.
Yes, several lakes near Longforgan are suitable for families. Clatto Reservoir, located within Clatto Country Park, offers a playground and easy walking paths. Laird's Loch is also family-friendly, with opportunities for camping and observing dragonflies. Additionally, Trottick Mill Ponds Local Nature Reserve provides a small, accessible oasis for wildlife spotting.
Laird's Loch in the Sidlaw Hills has well-maintained tracks around its wooded hills, ideal for both walking and cycling. Clatto Reservoir also features a network of paths encircling the reservoir and winding through surrounding woodlands, popular for walks and mountain biking. For more detailed routes, you can explore the hiking guide or gravel biking guide for Longforgan.
Morton Lochs, near Tayport, is an excellent destination for birdwatching. Part of the Tentsmuir National Nature Reserve, it features three small lochs and five bird hides, allowing visitors to observe numerous waterfowl species like teal, mallard, and goldeneye. You might also spot red squirrels, kingfishers, and even otters in the area. Another spot for birdwatching is the Bird Hide Viewing Point at Invergowrie Bay, where you can see wading birds.
Yes, Laird's Loch, nestled within the Sidlaw Hills, offers incredible panoramic views across Perthshire, Angus, Dundee, and Fife. Another notable spot is the View of Long Loch, located along the ridge of the Lundie Craigs, which provides unforgettable vistas over Long Loch and the surrounding Angus countryside.
The lakes around Longforgan are rich in wildlife. At Laird's Loch, you can spot vibrant blue dragonflies. Clatto Reservoir is home to swans, ducks, and moorhens. Morton Lochs is a prime birdwatching spot with various waterfowl, red squirrels, and occasional sightings of kingfishers, marsh harriers, ospreys, and otters. Trottick Mill Ponds Local Nature Reserve hosts birds, frogs, swans, water voles, and otters.
Yes, Laird's Loch is a prime coarse fishing venue. It is teeming with species such as Carp, Roach, Bream, Tench, Perch, and occasional Brown Trout. Fishing permits are available for this location.
Yes, Morton Lochs is part of the Tentsmuir National Nature Reserve and is also designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its biodiversity. Additionally, Trottick Mill Ponds Local Nature Reserve offers a small, protected area for wildlife observation within Dundee.
The woodlands around Clatto Reservoir are utilized by mountain bikers. For more extensive trails, you can explore the MTB Trails guide for Longforgan, which includes routes like the 'Laird's Loch loop from Little Ballo' and 'Westerkeith Hill Trig Point โ View from Lundie Craigs loop'.
Laird's Loch is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This is due to its unique aquatic plant communities and fringing acidic mires, which support an exceptionally large number of plant species, including some rare and endangered ones.
Yes, there are several circular walking routes. For example, the 'Laird's Loch & Ballo Wood loop' and 'Laird's Loch loop from Little Ballo' are popular options. You can find more details on these and other circular walks in the hiking guide for Longforgan.
The lakes offer beauty year-round. For birdwatching at Morton Lochs, winter is significant for wildfowl, while dragonflies are most visible from mid-April, peaking in July and August. Spring and summer are generally pleasant for walking and cycling, while autumn provides scenic foliage. Winter walks can also be enjoyed, offering a different perspective of the landscape.


Still not found your perfect lake around Longforgan? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.