Gartmorn Dam Country Park

 12 December 2025

Gartmorn Dam (Loch) east of Alloa is Scotland's oldest reservoir, created initially by the sixth Earl of Mar to aid mining and other industries in the area. There are a few examples of those industries close to the shores but today part of the loch is a nature reserve with a network of paths both lochside and in the extensive woods round about. I had been there before- Gartmorn Hill to the north of the loch used to be a Tump but was removed from the list following a resurvey. The shore path is about 3 miles long on an excellent track/path; just the right distance to measure my return to fitness. And there is a cafe which of course I visited after the walk......

Swans and a few water fowl close to the start of the walk.....

The track and views across the loch from the north shore.....

The remains of a building at the site of the former Sheriffyards Colliery at the north-east corner.....

The loch from the east.....

Views from the south shore with the Ochil Hills in the background. Disappointingly mostly clag covered today so I will have to come back on a clear day for a better view.....

Views from the dam wall......

The cafe......

This is an excellent walk which I suspect is not all that well known outwith the local community.