Bawsinch and Duddingston

Edinburgh & the Lothians

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Bawsinch and Duddingston Loch is a haven for wildlife in the heart of Edinburgh. Most of the reserve is a SSSI designated for its loch and associated fringing aquatic vegetation. It is the only remaining natural freshwater loch in the City of Edinburgh and supports the largest reedbed in the city. On the southeast and west edges, there is a band of marshland with reedbeds and willow and poplar woodland, which supports breeding waterfowl and nesting herons. The woodland in the south-east of the reserve was planted by SWT and includes most native UK species.

Best time to visit:

  • All year round for birds and trees

Visit for:

  • Birdwatching
  • Wildflowers
  • Grasslands
  • Woodlands

Top Species:

Access

  • Information
    The northern shore is accessible from the car park just west of Duddingston Village. Access to the southern shore is by prior arrangement only.
  • Directions
    The reserve lies 3 km from the centre of Edinburgh, at the southern end of Holyrood Park. South of Duddingston Village.
  • Restrictions
    Northern shore is open all year. Access to the southern shore by prior arrangement.
Bawsinch and Duddingston

Reserve location

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OS Landranger Map: 66
OS Grid Reference: NT284725
Latitude: 55.94025108
Longitude: -3.14639976
Download the reserve map
Edinburgh (2 miles)

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