RSPB Scotland Lochwinnoch — Attraction in Scotland

RSPB Lockwinnoch is our local centre and obviously Im gonna be biased but this is a wonderful site.

Firstly, all the trails are open to visit with one of the older hides now closed. The tower viewing area and visitor centre is closed. The new temporary visitor centre has just opened on 11th July 25 and we visited on 12th. This is due to the main visitor centre building being scheduled for renewal in the next year or so. The temporary building, seating area and toilets are very good. Obviously the temporary shop cannot stock the same quantity of gifts and supplies but there is certainly shortage of helpful advise and friendly chat from the staff and volunteers manning the centre.

If you are a member parking is free but you do need to register your car at the parking meter, for non members the charge is not expensive. There is hire of binoculars available and the trails have excellent viewing points along a tree lined pathway. At the end of the tree lined way there is a lovely boardwalk out onto fhe loch. A small childrens play activity area too. Tea/coffee soft drinks and ice-cream all still available.

Go see...

A great variety of woodland, garden and water birds can always be spotted, including some rarities! The shop has loads of bird food, toys, optics, books and stationary, and the staff are always incredibly friendly and helpful. There's even a bit of a lookout tower you can go up for a better view over the loch. The cafe is very basic but a hot drink is always appreciated after a walk along the loch. Toilets are available. As for the walk itself, it is currently non-circular and very easy. You just walk along the path up the loch, then turn on the boardwalk. See the ruin at the end, then turn back! You don't come here for the walking though (unless you specifically need a non-challenging, highly accessible walk). You come for the birds and the shop, and in those respects it...

Environmental pushback to recreate a water meadow by the RSPB for waders, plovers, geese is a success and a joy. Friendly and interested staff, warm and caring shop staff all help to make a good visit. The removal of rhododendron and Himalayan Balsam is having an effect. Vandalism is a scourge on the place and virulence from the community encouraged. A real gem in a heavily farmed and former industrial area to be cherished. A great place for birders looking to check off more on their list. The visitor profile is middle class with a large number educated to degree level and keen to give their families nurturing learning experience. I have noticed a wide range of people of different racial background welcome and relaxed on their visits. Dogs are under good control...