Clatteringshaws Loch & Visitor Centre

A place of beauty and tranquility, Clatteringshaws Loch is a must for anyone who loves to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and soak up nature.

We first stumbled upon Clatteringshaws Loch by accident, whilst looking for a geocache. It was amazing how incredibly peaceful and secluded it was. We were on the other side of the loch from the visitor centre and saw literally nobody else.

On our next visit we parked by the visitor centre. Even here, the whole feel of the place is of peace and quiet. The centre overlooks tranquil Clatteringshaws Loch which is a haven for waterbirds in summer. Across the loch are the rolling Galloway Hills.

Wander down to the stoney shores on the edge of the Loch and have a picnic, skim stones or just soak up the stunning views. When the loch is really still you’ll get some spectacular photos.

You can also meander along the path beside the loch to the historic Bruce’s Stone. It’s one of two stones dedicated to the Scottish king in the Forest Park, and where “maybe” ? he sat after battle.

If you’d like a longer walk, cross the road and climb nearby Benniguinea for stunning views back over the Loch. For an even more challenging walk you can also continue to Cairnsmore of Dee.

Around the visitor centre there are plenty of picnic benches and an abundance of bird feeders. So, whatever time of year you visit you’re sure to see plenty of birdlife.

We loved sitting inside in the café at a window table and watching the finches feeding right in front of us, thanks to the bird feeders fixed on the windows. We also caught glimpses of woodpeckers last time we were here.

⚠️ As of Oct ’23 the café is currently closed until further notice. The Toilets are open.

~~The cafe is small but pleasant and serves a delicious array of cakes and hot drinks ☕️. There’s also a small gift shop with some nice souvenirs.~~

Clatteringshaws is definitely one of our favourite places in Scotland and we recommend it to anyone who loves nature.

Stargazing

Clatteringshaws is also one of the best places in the world to enjoy the night sky! The visitor centre overlooks the darkest part of the Forest Park. So if you fancy staying into the evening, armed with a flask of hot chocolate, you’ll be rewarded with a particularly dramatic show of stars. However, the toilets close at the same time as the visitor centre, so please take this into account if you’re planning to star gaze.