The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Loch of Forfar

There are nearly 30 family-friendly hiking trails around Loch of Forfar, with the majority being easy routes suitable for all ages and fitness levels. You'll find a good mix of short, gentle strolls and slightly longer, more adventurous options.

Yes, the path tracing the perimeter of Loch of Forfar is a popular choice. It's predominantly flat, approximately 4-5 km, and many sections are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. For a specific easy circular route, consider the Forfar Witches Memorial – View of the Lake loop from Forfar, which offers a pleasant 5.5 km walk through the country park.

Loch of Forfar is rich in natural beauty, featuring woodlands, grasslands, and scenic countryside. It's a vital habitat for a wide array of wildlife. Keep an eye out for ospreys, kingfishers, roe deer, and otters. The loch is also home to various wildfowl like swans, geese, coots, ducks, moorhens, and herons, with migrating birds being a highlight in winter. The Forfar Loch Country Park also features a Wildlife Garden designed for children to explore different habitats.

Absolutely. Along the lochside path, you'll find the Forfar Witches Memorial, commemorating the women executed during the 1660s witch trials, adding a historical dimension to your walk. Another point of interest is Queen Margaret's Inch (St Margaret's Inch), a natural gravel projection on the loch's northern side with historical significance, once home to ancient structures.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessible, well-maintained paths, the beautiful lochside views, and the abundance of wildlife. The flat, easy terrain makes it particularly popular for families and those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience.

Yes, many of the trails around Loch of Forfar are dog-friendly, including the popular circular path around the loch. Please ensure your dog is kept under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors, and always clean up after your pet.

The Forfar Loch Country Park provides essential facilities, including parking. This is a convenient starting point for many of the trails, offering easy access to the lochside paths and other amenities.

For families seeking a slightly more challenging experience, the The Inglis Memorial – Forfar Witches Memorial loop from Forfar offers a moderate 12.8 km route with some ascents into the surrounding rolling hills, providing expansive views of the Angus landscape. Another moderate option is The Den Park loop from Kirriemuir, which is 11.1 km long.

Loch of Forfar offers enjoyable hiking opportunities year-round. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and warmer weather, ideal for picnics and spotting young wildlife. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter offers a chance to see migrating wildfowl. The predominantly flat terrain makes it accessible even in cooler months, though appropriate clothing is always recommended.

Yes, the Forfar Loch Country Park is a central hub that provides essential facilities, including a visitor center and public toilets. Park rangers also conduct environmental activities and nature clubs for children, making it a great resource for families.

Absolutely! In addition to hiking, the loch is a popular venue for sailing, canoeing, orienteering, and fishing (with a permit). During high season, visitors can also enjoy pitch and putt and crazy golf, offering a variety of options to extend your family day out.

Yes, a short drive from Loch of Forfar, you can find family-friendly routes near Glamis Castle. For example, the Glamis Castle – Walled Garden Labyrinth loop from Glamis Castle is an easy 5.6 km hike that allows you to explore the beautiful castle grounds and its unique features.