Lindores Loch

Lindores Loch is a freshwater loch beside the village of Lindores in North Fife, Scotland. It sits in Abdie parish, roughly 3 km (2 miles) southeast of the small town of Newburgh. The water covers about 40–44 hectares and is ringed by fen, alder and willow carr, and a wide band of transition mire. The whole site is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

What is Lindores Loch?

For many years the loch has served as a fishery, and it is known for plentiful fish. It is regarded as a popular fly-fishing water for brown and rainbow trout. A curling pond lies on the northern shore and is used by the Abdie Curling Club and the Abdie Ladies Curling Club.

One tentative theory says the basin took shape from glacial deposits washed down from the Ochil Hills as the last ice age ended. Roads, a railway, a sluice gate and farmland have all shifted the shoreline and water level since.

Why is it protected?

The loch is a fairly large stretch of open water with fringing wetland. NatureScot's citation names a breeding bird assemblage as its single bird feature, alongside the open-water and fen habitats. Spring and early summer are therefore the natural time for birdwatching. For species lists, consult the official NatureScot site description.

How do you get there?

Start from Newburgh on the Firth of Tay estuary and head about 3 km southeast. The ruins of Lindores Abbey stand on the eastern edge of the town, so a visit to the water pairs easily with a look at the abbey. The area suits an easy walk, and a couple of smaller lochs nearby also draw anglers.

Can you fish here?

The loch is known as a fishery, but permits and rules can change. Check current conditions and availability with the operator before bringing a rod, as you would for any fishery in the area.

When should you visit?

Come in spring or early summer for breeding birds. Anglers pick the months when trout feed actively. Wear waterproof footwear, since the margins are boggy.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Lindores Loch? In North Fife, in Abdie parish, about 3 km southeast of Newburgh and right by the village of Lindores.

Is it a protected site? Yes, it is an SSSI. The designation covers its open-water and wetland habitats and its breeding birds.

What fish live there? It is described as a fly fishery for brown and rainbow trout.

What else is worth seeing nearby? Lindores Abbey ruins on the east side of Newburgh, and the shoreline of the Tay estuary.