Rescobie Loch

Rescobie Loch is a shallow freshwater loch in Angus, eastern Scotland, roughly 4 km east of the town of Forfar. It sits in the old parish of Rescobie and draws mostly fly anglers and birdwatchers. Expect a quiet spot for a few hours by the water rather than a developed attraction.

What is Rescobie Loch?

The loch formed after the last Ice Age. The Lunan Water runs through it, entering from the west and leaving to the east. It is shallow, reaching about 6 m at its deepest, and the surface lies only some 60 m above sea level. Reeds fringe the shore, which makes it a good place to watch waterbirds.

What can you do here?

Fishing. The water is run by the Rescobie Loch Development Association, set up in the early 1960s. Only fly fishing is permitted, from the bank or a boat, and the loch is stocked regularly with rainbow and brown trout.

Birdwatching. In winter you can see gulls, geese and ducks on the water, while ospreys hunt over it in summer. A telescope helps, since many birds stay far from the shore. Spring, autumn and winter are the best seasons.

Walking. There is no circular path around the loch, and the track along the shore is narrow. Much of the water can be seen from the car park on the north side, but there is no wheelchair access.

How do you get there?

Come by car or bike from Forfar. An anglers' car park lies on the north-west side, and on the south side you can park by the road and walk from there. No public transport stops at the water's edge.

What is the history?

Old records spell the name in many ways, including Roscolpin and Rescobis, and it may derive from the Gaelic Ros Sgolban. Local tradition links the area with Rescobie Castle, also called Barnsdale, where King Donald III is said to have been held captive. Nineteenth-century Ordnance Survey notes admit that nothing reliable survives about the castle. The Reswallie estate lies on the south shore, with a house dated 1794 and listed as Category B.

What else is nearby?

A little to the east, Balgavies Loch is a nature reserve with a circular walk and a known osprey site. In Forfar itself, Forfar Loch has a 4 km path around the water, reed beds and plenty of wildfowl. Together with Rescobie they make an easy day of lowland Angus nature.

Frequently asked questions

Can I fish at Rescobie Loch?

Yes, but only with a fly, from the bank or a boat. A local association manages the fishery, so check the rules and how to buy a permit before you travel.

When is the best time for birds?

Spring, autumn and winter. Winter brings gulls, geese and ducks, and summer offers a chance of seeing ospreys.

Can I walk all the way round?

No. There is no loop path and the shoreline track is narrow. For a full circuit, head to Forfar Loch nearby, which has a 4 km route.

Where do I park?

Use the anglers' car park on the north-west side, or park beside the road on the south side.