Loch Buidhe

Loch Buidhe is a freshwater loch in Sutherland, in the north-east Highlands of Scotland. It lies about 8 km north-east of Bonar Bridge, at the head of the Kyle of Sutherland, within the old parish of Creich. The name is Gaelic for "yellow loch".

Which Loch Buidhe is this?

Scotland has several lochs with this name, including ones on Rannoch Moor, Skye and in Glen Muick. This one sits in Sutherland at roughly 57.955° N, 4.262° W. The former boundary between the parishes of Creich and Dornoch crossed it. The water lies around 160 m (527 ft) above sea level, close to 2 km long and under 400 m wide.

What is there to see?

The setting is classic Sutherland upland: open heather moor, peat bog and rolling hills with almost no buildings. Expect quiet, wide skies and very few other visitors.

A 19th-century dam at the eastern end raised the water level by about 1 to 2 m. The Highland Historic Environment Record also lists a possible crannog, a man-made dwelling island of prehistoric type. A 1969 visit found no trace of it, since any remains would now sit under water.

Can you fish here?

The loch has long had a name as a trout water. Victorian accounts call it good trout fishing, and an attempt to stock it with salmon failed. It forms part of the Carnaig river system, which runs through a chain of lochs towards the Fleet. Before you go, find out who holds the fishing rights and get permission.

How do you get there, and what should you bring?

Bonar Bridge is the nearest place with services, and its railway station is on the Far North Line. From there you need a car or bike. The area falls within the North Coast 500 touring region, but facilities are scarce, so carry food, water and waterproofs. Weather turns quickly even in summer. Late spring and summer, with their long daylight hours, are the best times to visit.

Frequently asked questions

What does Loch Buidhe mean? It is Gaelic for "yellow loch". Several other Scottish lochs share the name.

Is there much to do? This is a loch for quiet landscapes: moor, water and hills. There are no cafes or visitor centres on site.

Are there trout in the loch? Yes. It has been described as good trout water since the 19th century. Salmon introduced there did not take.

Where should I stay nearby? Bonar Bridge, Ardgay or Spinningdale offer accommodation and shops, all within a short drive of the loch.