Loch of Forfar

Loch of Forfar is a freshwater loch on the western edge of the town of Forfar in Angus, eastern Scotland. It runs roughly east to west for about 1.6 km (1 mile), and the land around it forms Forfar Loch Country Park. It suits an easy lakeside walk, a picnic, and a short detour into local archaeology.

What is there to see at Loch of Forfar?

The country park covers around 38 hectares with the loch at its centre. A level circuit of about 4 km (2.5 miles) goes all the way round the water, so it works well for families and casual walkers. Along the path you pass a wildlife garden, a children's playpark, benches and picnic tables. A leisure centre sits at the eastern end of the park, and the loch drains westwards into the Dean Water.

What is Queen Margaret's Inch?

A gravel spit pushes into the water on the northern shore, known as Queen Margaret's Inch. A crannog, an artificial dwelling island built on piles, once stood here. It came to light when the loch level was lowered (Canmore gives 1781) and was excavated in 1868, when timber piles, logs and stones were found under midden deposits. Earlier finds are recorded as silver ornaments, bone chessmen and bronze vessels. Nothing of the crannog is visible today.

The name comes from a tradition that the 11th-century Queen Margaret lived here, though sources describe it as a later label. Records also place a chapel of the Holy Trinity on an island in the loch: in 1234 Alexander II endowed monks of Coupar Angus to hold services there. The site is a Scheduled Monument (SM7648) looked after by Historic Environment Scotland, and the spit is now home to Forfar Sailing Club.

How do I plan a visit?

• Getting there: the loch lies at the western end of Forfar, close to the town centre, so you can reach it on foot or by local transport.
• Time needed: the full loop takes about an hour at an easy pace.
• When to go: the park is open year round; late spring and summer give the best odds for a dry picnic.
• Fishing: allowed by permit only.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the walk around the loch? The circuit of Loch of Forfar is about 4 km and flat.

Can I see the crannog? No. The crannog has left no visible trace, but you can walk to the Queen Margaret's Inch peninsula and see the monument's setting.

Can I fish here? Yes, but only with a permit.

Is it good for children? Yes. There is a playpark, a wildlife garden and plenty of picnic spots.