Best lakes around Whifflet are found in the surrounding areas of North Lanarkshire and Glasgow, making them easily accessible from Coatbridge. This region features a mix of artificial and natural lochs, often situated within expansive country parks. The landscape offers diverse environments, from managed parklands with watersports facilities to tranquil natural reserves rich in wildlife.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
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“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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The trails around Bishop Loch can become quite boggy after rain so be prepared for some hike-a-bike sections. The scenery is beautiful though with abundant wildlife throughout the area.
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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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The Waterfront Cafe in the water sports centre at Strathclyde Country Park is a nice stop on a walk around the loch. The cafe is open every day from 10:00 - 15:30. They serve a selection of freshly made light meals and snacks as well as hot and cold drinks.
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Great place to go for a run or a slow cycle. There's a trail all around the lake but too many people to expect to fai any major stores on a bike.
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Strathclyde Country Park lies in 400 hectares of countryside in the valley of the River Clyde, centred around Strathclyde Loch. It is a popular spot for people looking to escape the hustle-and-bustle. The remains of Bothwellhaugh Roman Fort and a Roman bathhouse can be seen in the park, where the South Calder Water flows into the loch. Within the park, you find habitats including wetland and native woodland.
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For watersports and a wide range of activities, Strathclyde Loch is an excellent choice. Located within Strathclyde Country Park, it offers pedal boats, canoeing, kayaking, and speedboat rides. The park also features cycling routes and is a venue for rowing events.
Yes, both Strathclyde Loch and Lochend Loch are very family-friendly. Strathclyde Country Park, home to Strathclyde Loch, has outdoor adventure playgrounds and M&D's Scotland's Theme Park. Drumpellier Country Park, where Lochend Loch is situated, boasts a visitor center with a café and two adventure play parks, including the Crannog play park.
Lochend Loch in Drumpellier Country Park features a fully accessible mile-long circular route. Hogganfield Loch also has a flat and well-maintained perimeter track, making it easily accessible for walks.
The lakes are rich in wildlife. At Lochend Loch, you can spot diverse birdlife, mammals, and wildflowers. Hogganfield Loch is known for birdwatching, particularly for species like Goosanders, Goldeneye, and Whooper swans. Fannyside Lochs offer chances to see badgers, foxes, roe deer, and various bird species, while Broadwood Loch is home to swans and other water birds.
Yes, Strathclyde Loch is particularly notable for its historical context. Beneath its surface lies the submerged village of Bothwellhaugh, and remains of a Roman fort and bathhouse are visible within Strathclyde Country Park. Drumpellier Country Park, home to Lochend Loch, features a Crannog play park based on a historic dwelling.
At Strathclyde Loch, you can visit the Waterfront Café in the watersports center, which offers light meals, snacks, and drinks. Lochend Loch, within Drumpellier Country Park, also has a café at its visitor center.
For tranquility and lovely views, Fannyside Lochs are ideal, offering calm waters and surrounding hills. Lochend Loch also provides light gravel paths through woodlands with plenty of wildlife, and Bishop Loch is known for its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife, though trails can be boggy after rain.
Absolutely. Many lakes offer excellent routes for running and cycling. Strathclyde Loch has trails popular for running and cycling. Lochend Loch has well-maintained paths for both activities, including a circular route. You can find more detailed routes in our guides for Running Trails around Whifflet and Cycling around Whifflet.
Yes, many of the country parks and lochs are popular with dog walkers. For example, the circular trail around Broadwood Loch is a favorite among local families and dog walkers. Generally, country parks in the area welcome dogs, but always check for specific rules regarding leashes.
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are great for watersports and family outings. Autumn offers beautiful scenery and opportunities for spotting fungi and migratory birds. Winter walks can be peaceful, but be prepared for potentially boggy trails, especially around Bishop Loch.
Yes, the Whifflet area offers options for gravel biking. You can explore routes that incorporate some of the scenic lake areas. For specific routes and difficulty levels, refer to our comprehensive guide on Gravel biking around Whifflet.
Visitors appreciate Strathclyde Loch as a popular spot to escape the hustle and bustle. It's considered a great place for a run or a slow cycle, with an easy riding trail all around the lake. Many also enjoy the diverse habitats, including wetlands and native woodlands, and the historical elements within the park.


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