Lower Cumbrae Reservoir

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Buteshire

Scotland

Lower Cumbrae Reservoir

Barbay Hill - Isle of Cumbrae Geographical indicator and trig point on the summit of Barbay Hill.
Trig Point : TP1016
Flush Bracket : S4807 — Barbay Hill - Isle of Cumbrae Credit: Morag McKay

Lower Cumbrae Reservoir, located in Buteshire, Scotland, is a picturesque freshwater lake that covers an approximate area of 60 acres. Nestled amidst the stunning landscape of the island of Lower Cumbrae, the reservoir serves as a vital water source for the surrounding communities and wildlife.

This man-made reservoir was constructed in the early 19th century to meet the increasing demand for freshwater on the island. Its creation involved damming a small valley, resulting in the formation of a tranquil body of water. The reservoir is fed by several small streams and natural springs, ensuring a consistent water supply throughout the year.

Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, the reservoir is a haven for a diverse range of flora and fauna. The freshwater marshes that fringe the lake are particularly rich in biodiversity, providing a habitat for numerous species of birds, amphibians, and invertebrates. Birdwatchers flock to the area to spot various waterfowl, including ducks, geese, and herons, which use the reservoir as a stopover during migration.

The reservoir also offers recreational opportunities for visitors. Anglers are drawn to its shores, hoping to catch fish such as brown trout and pike, which thrive in its nutrient-rich waters. With its tranquil ambiance and breathtaking scenery, the reservoir is also a popular spot for boating, kayaking, and picnicking.

Lower Cumbrae Reservoir, with its natural beauty and ecological significance, is not only a valuable water resource but also a cherished destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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Lower Cumbrae Reservoir Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.762217/-4.9363489 or Grid Reference NS1556. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Barbay Hill - Isle of Cumbrae

Geographical indicator and trig point on the summit of Barbay Hill. Trig Point : TP1016 Flush Bracket : S4807

Morag McKay

Grazing land at Figgatoch Farm

John Ferguson

Trig pillar on Barbay Hill

John Ferguson

Garrison House (Sunken Garden) - Millport, Isle of Cumbrae

Garrison House in Millport was built in 1745 as the residence of the Captain and officers of the Revenue Sailing Ship the ‘Royal George’. Garrison's Sunken Garden This restored sunken garden is based on an original design by Robert Weir Schulz. In 1908 and 1909, the 4th Marquess of Bute hired Schulz to create terraces and a new sunken garden at Garrison House. His design reflects the Arts and Crafts style of the time. Schulz was an architect based in London. He worked on many of the Bute properties during this period. Schulz, along with other designers like William Robertson and Gertrude Jerkyll, helped define the Arts and Crafts garden in the U.K. Typical elements included : Drystone walling using local stone, Crazy stone paving, Wild plants instead of glasshouse plants and Plants in niches in rocks in walls, steps and paths. These elements resulted in a 'Cottage' look that was less formal than previous styles of garden. Quite bold in front of a Gothic Revival house like Garrison !

Raibeart MacAoidh

Gouklan Standing Stone - Isle of Cumbrae

The Gouklan Stone stands in the southeast corner of Gouklan Wood.

Raibeart MacAoidh

Gouklan Standing Stone - Isle of Cumbrae

The Gouklan Stone stands in the southeast corner of Gouklan Wood.

Raibeart MacAoidh

Minke Whale - Isle of Cumbrae

The very sad sight of a Minke whale at Sheriff's Port on the Isle of Cumbrae.

Raibeart MacAoidh

Kirkton (c700) - Cumbrae's Medieval Centre

Kirkton was a medieval village on Cumbrae and existed for many centuries before Millport was built. The plaque reads "Remains of the ancient jougs by which prisoners were manacled to the rocks. They date back to the 15th century". North Ayrshire Heritage Trails Link

Raibeart MacAoidh

The Gowk Stone - Isle of Cumbrae

In folklore a gowk is a cuckoo or fool, the latter were thought to be fairy-touched. Gowk’s Day was the old Scottish April Fool's Day, which was held on 13th April when the cuckoo begins to call. The call of the cuckoo is believed to beckon the souls of the dead, and the cuckoo was thought to be able to travel back and forth between the worlds of the living and the dead.

Raibeart MacAoidh

Millport Curling Club Bothy - Isle of Cumbrae

Wee Minnemoer Bothy is the home of Millport Curling Club which was founded in 1838. The first President was John Wishart from a report of a meeting held in the Kelburne Arms. The bothy was built by William Wishart about 1845. In these early years curling on Cumbrae was run less formally but from 1925 the Curling Club has flourished and more recently ladies were admitted to the club as members. The Club has been and remains active in many competitions organised by the Argyll Province and the Royal Club.

Raibeart MacAoidh

Great Cumbrae - Millport - Boat moored at the pier

A small boat named 'Kestral' is moored longside the pier in Millport. The houses in the background are on Marine Parade.

Rob Farrow

Great Cumbrae - Millport - Gulls on the end of the pier

Two gulls (Herring Gulls I think) nestled down at the end of Millport's pier. The houses in the background are across the bay on Marine Parade.

Rob Farrow

Great Cumbrae - Millport

Looking across Millport Bay from near to the Millport Pier Hotel over to Glasgow Street which hugs the northern end of the bay.

Rob Farrow

Great Cumbrae - The Cathedral of the Isles - from the south

The Cathedral of the Isles and Collegiate Church of the Holy Spirit (to give it its full appellation) is a Category A listed Link

cathedral in the town of Millport on the island of Great Cumbrae. It is one of the smallest (possibly *the* smallest) cathedral in Britain, with many a parish church being larger. For more information, see Link

The whole of Millport is a designated conservation area - see Link

Rob Farrow

Great Cumbrae - The Cathedral of the Isles - from the East

The Cathedral of the Isles and Collegiate Church of the Holy Spirit (to give it its full appellation) is a Category A listed Link

The whole of Millport is a designated conservation area - see Link

Rob Farrow

Great Cumbrae - Cathedral of the Isles - Nave & Chancel

Looking along the nave into the chancel of the Cathedral of the Isles in Millport, Great Cumbrae. See NS1655 : Great Cumbrae - The Cathedral of the Isles - from the south and NS1655 : Great Cumbrae - The Cathedral of the Isles - from the East for more information

Rob Farrow

Great Cumbrae - The Cathedral of the Isles - Ancient relics

A small plaque above these relics states: "These Crosses and Carved Fragments Relics of the ancient Christianity of the Island were deposited within the College precincts by the Founder George Frederick, 6th Earl of Glasgow Ye have considered the days of old and the years of ancient times. Psalms LXXVII 5"

Rob Farrow

Great Cumbrae - Millport - The Garrison

The Category 'B' listed Link

Garrison in Millport, Great Cumbrae has had several uses since its original construction in the C18th as a garrison for the local excise men and associated troops. However, little of the original building remains as the house was extensively renovated in the 19th century for the Earl of Glasgow. It now houses an interesting little museum.

Rob Farrow

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Lower Cumbrae Reservoir is located at Grid Ref: NS1556 (Lat: 55.762217, Lng: -4.9363489)

Unitary Authority: North Ayrshire

Police Authority: Ayrshire