Loch Loskin

Loch Loskin is a small freshwater loch beside Dunoon, in the Ardnadam area of the Cowal peninsula in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. It sits about 28 m above sea level and covers roughly six acres, so it is a quiet stop rather than a destination that fills a day. Many visitors first notice it while driving the inland road from Sandbank into Dunoon.

Where is Loch Loskin?

The loch lies just west of the town centre, a few minutes by car from Dunoon's built-up streets, at roughly 55.966 N, 4.934 W. Cowal is a hilly peninsula between the Firth of Clyde and Loch Fyne, and Dunoon is its main town. Loskin is one of the small local waters tucked among the woods and hills behind the town.

How do you get to Loch Loskin?

The A885, known locally as the "High Road", runs past the water on its way from Sandbank to Dunoon. It works as an inland alternative to the busy shoreline, where ferry traffic gathers. Driving towards town, you pass through wooded ground and the loch comes into view right beside the carriageway. A car is the easiest way to explore Cowal, and you can also reach Dunoon by ferry across the Firth of Clyde.

What is there to see?

Expect a calm little loch, not a developed attraction. Its outflow, the Milton Burn, winds through Dunoon and enters the Firth of Clyde. An 1868 guidebook describes a wooded path leading past the loch to Dunoon and notes the surface covered in white water lilies. The name also lives on in Scottish dance music: the strathspey "Loch Loskin" was composed by Roderick Campbell.

Can you fish at Loch Loskin?

Yes, with a permit. The loch is managed by Dunoon and District Angling Club, which stocks it with brown trout alongside the native fish. Sea trout turn up occasionally later in the season. Fly fishing is from a boat only, and the club keeps three boats for the purpose. Permits are required on all of the club's waters, so check the club's website before you travel.

When should you visit?

The loch can be seen all year, but spring and summer bring greener surroundings and long daylight. Anglers come during the fishing season. Combine a stop here with a walk around Dunoon and a look at the town itself; it fits neatly into a drive from Sandbank or from the ferry.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Loch Loskin? In Ardnadam, next to Dunoon, in Argyll and Bute on the Cowal peninsula, Scotland.

How big is the loch? It is small, about six acres, at an elevation of roughly 28 m.

Which stream drains the loch? The Milton Burn, which flows through Dunoon into the Firth of Clyde.

Do I need a permit to fish there? Yes. Fishing on Dunoon and District Angling Club waters is by permit, and fly fishing is from a boat.

Which road passes the loch? The A885, the "High Road" between Sandbank and Dunoon.