St Mary's Loch

St Mary's Loch is the biggest natural loch in the Scottish Borders, set in the Yarrow valley beside the A708 between Selkirk and Moffat, roughly 72 km south of Edinburgh. It stretches about 5 km in length, around 1 km across, and drops to roughly 27 m at its deepest.

What is there to see at St Mary's Loch?

The Megget Water feeds the loch, and its outflow heads north as the Yarrow Water. Immediately to the south sits the smaller Loch of the Lowes, joined to its neighbour by a short stretch of river. A narrow neck of land divides the two, and on it stands Tibbie Shiels Inn. The inn was founded by Tibbie Shiel, a molecatcher's wife turned innkeeper, who died in 1878 at the age of 95. It is privately owned today.

The loch is named after a medieval church dedicated to St Mary that once occupied the northern shore. Only the burial ground can still be seen, and it gives a good outlook across the water. A statue of the poet James Hogg, the "Ettrick Shepherd", looks out over the Loch of the Lowes near the turn-off to the inn. Walter Scott and William Wordsworth both wrote about this part of the valley.

How do you get there?

Drive along the A708, which follows the western shore. The car park near Tibbie Shiels Inn is the usual starting point for walkers. From Edinburgh, allow a little over an hour by car.

What can you do here?

• Walking. The Southern Upland Way follows the eastern shore, and the Sir Walter Scott Way also passes through the area. The route from the loch to Traquair House covers about 13 km and means several hours on foot with a few hundred metres of climbing.
• Fishing. The loch has a name for its trout.
• Sailing. St Mary's Loch Sailing Club operates from the southern end, east of the inn, and is affiliated to the Royal Yachting Association.
• Easy relaxing. The shoreline suits a short stroll or a picnic, and the surrounding hills open up wide views of the valley.

When should you visit?

Late spring to early autumn is best, when the days are long and the paths are dry. Weather in the Borders turns quickly, so pack a waterproof layer and sturdy footwear even in summer. In autumn the hillsides turn warm shades and the road is quieter.

Frequently asked questions

Is St Mary's Loch the largest lake in the area?

Yes. It is the largest natural loch in the Scottish Borders, and some sources call it the largest in southern Scotland.

Where does the name come from?

From a medieval church of St Mary on the northern shore. Just the graveyard survives.

Can you fish or sail here?

Yes. The loch is known for trout, and a sailing club is based at its southern end.

Which long-distance trail runs beside it?

The Southern Upland Way, a coast-to-coast walking route across southern Scotland, follows the eastern shore.