Loch Gelly

Loch Gelly is a small, shallow loch in Fife, Scotland, beside the village of Bowhill and roughly 1.5 km south-east of the town of Lochgelly, which takes its name from the water. It is best known for birdwatching and coarse fishing.

What is Loch Gelly like?

The loch fills a broad, flat-bottomed basin, about 1.75 km from west to east and around 0.75 km across at its widest. Water leaves at the eastern end through Gelly Burn. The Gaelic name, Loch Gheallaidh, is often rendered as "loch of shining waters" or "loch of brightness".

Do not confuse it with Loch Ore, the neighbouring loch on the far side of Lochgelly, which belongs to Lochore Meadows Country Park. The town sits on higher ground between the two.

What can you see and do here?

Wildlife is the draw. The western end is a wetland with broad reedbeds and a muddy spit jutting out in the middle, a good vantage point for waterbirds. Anglers come for perch, pike and roach, and some water sports take place on the loch too.

There is no single waymarked circuit around the shore, so this is more a stop for watching birds than a full-day hike. To add a longer walk, head to nearby Lochore Meadows Country Park, which covers more than 1,200 acres of woodland, open grassland, ponds and a nature reserve.

How do you get to Loch Gelly?

From the A92, follow the B9149 signed for Lochgelly, then turn south. There is room to park beside the water, with steps leading down to the shore. Alternatively, approach from the east via Auchtertool and follow a rough footpath along the bank towards the reeds. Local buses serve Lochgelly and Cardenden, but the last stretch is easiest by car or on foot.

When should you go?

The loch is worth a visit in any season. Bring binoculars and waterproof footwear, since the shore and paths can be muddy. Fife weather changes quickly, so pack a warm layer even in summer.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Loch Gelly? In Fife, east-central Scotland, about 1.5 km south-east of Lochgelly town, next to Bowhill.

Can you fish at Loch Gelly? It is known for angling, with perch, pike and roach present. Check local rules and any permit requirements before you go.

Is it the same as Loch Ore? No. They are two separate lochs on opposite sides of Lochgelly. Loch Ore is part of Lochore Meadows Country Park.

Is there parking? Yes, there is a place to park by the shore off the B9149 side, with steps down to the water.