Merkland Loch

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Ayrshire

Scotland

Merkland Loch

Dundonald Castle Dundonald Castle, from Parkthorn View Dundonald.
Dundonald Castle Credit: Tony Page

Merkland Loch is a picturesque freshwater loch located in Ayrshire, Scotland. This serene water body is nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery, offering a tranquil setting for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat. With an area of approximately 7 hectares, it is neither too large nor too small, making it an ideal spot for various recreational activities.

The loch is characterized by its crystal-clear waters, which are teeming with a diverse range of aquatic flora and fauna. The shores of Merkland Loch are lined with reeds and rushes, creating a vibrant freshwater marsh ecosystem. This marshland provides a habitat for numerous bird species, including herons, swans, and ducks, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.

The surrounding landscape boasts a rich biodiversity, with the loch serving as a crucial water source for various wildlife species. Anglers also frequent Merkland Loch, as it is known for its healthy fish population, including brown trout and perch.

Visitors to the loch can enjoy a range of activities, from fishing to boating. The calm and peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for canoeing or kayaking, allowing visitors to explore the loch's hidden corners and observe the abundant wildlife.

Merkland Loch is easily accessible, with convenient parking facilities nearby. Its natural beauty and tranquil ambiance make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of Ayrshire.

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Merkland Loch Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.568915/-4.6036972 or Grid Reference NS3533. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Dundonald Castle Dundonald Castle, from Parkthorn View Dundonald.
Dundonald Castle
Dundonald Castle, from Parkthorn View Dundonald.
Auchans Ruin, Dundonald Approach to Auchans house, Dundonald
Auchans Ruin, Dundonald
Approach to Auchans house, Dundonald
Troon Water supply Looking south from Hillhouse quarry to Troon Reservoir, and Troon beyond.
Troon Water supply
Looking south from Hillhouse quarry to Troon Reservoir, and Troon beyond.
Bottom of Highlees Mount, Dundonald, towards Loudoun Hill Bottom of Highlees hill, Dundonald, towards Loudoun Hill east of Darvel.
Bottom of Highlees Mount, Dundonald, towards Loudoun Hill
Bottom of Highlees hill, Dundonald, towards Loudoun Hill east of Darvel.
Highlees Reservoir, towards Dundonald Edge of Reservoir looking towards Dundonald Castle
Highlees Reservoir, towards Dundonald
Edge of Reservoir looking towards Dundonald Castle
Dundonald Castle by Moonlight.
Dundonald Castle by Moonlight.
Dundonald Castle
Dundonald Castle
Well trimmed hedge on the A759.
Well trimmed hedge on the A759.
Modern entrance to Hillhouse Quarry This is a busy spot!  While I was there, there must have been a lorry movement about every minute or two.
Modern entrance to Hillhouse Quarry
This is a busy spot! While I was there, there must have been a lorry movement about every minute or two.
Hillhouse Quarry, through the trees, by the A759 The quarry buildings are screened by trees. The wooden garage appears to belong to a private house.
Hillhouse Quarry, through the trees, by the A759
The quarry buildings are screened by trees. The wooden garage appears to belong to a private house.
Auchans Castle, Dundonald Auchans is now very ruined. The interior floors have all collapsed except for part of the vaulted cellars. The castle was built by the Wallaces of Dundonald about 1600.
Auchans Castle, Dundonald
Auchans is now very ruined. The interior floors have all collapsed except for part of the vaulted cellars. The castle was built by the Wallaces of Dundonald about 1600.
Junction between the B750 and the A759 The A759 is running across the photo
Junction between the B750 and the A759
The A759 is running across the photo
Lochside The unusually named Lochside is in the middle of open pastures with no sign of a loch nearby
Lochside
The unusually named Lochside is in the middle of open pastures with no sign of a loch nearby
Fraser's Garden Centre
Fraser's Garden Centre
Hilltop Trees Near Symington
Hilltop Trees Near Symington
Langholm Farm Shop
Langholm Farm Shop
Minor Road Near Symington
Minor Road Near Symington
Tree At Junction Near Dundonald
Tree At Junction Near Dundonald
Show me another place!

Merkland Loch is located at Grid Ref: NS3533 (Lat: 55.568915, Lng: -4.6036972)

Unitary Authority: South Ayrshire

Police Authority: Ayrshire

What 3 Words

///coarser.pupils.sour. Near Dundonald, South Ayrshire

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Nearby Amenities

Located within 500m of 55.568915,-4.6036972
Bench
Backrest: no
Material: metal
Seats: 1
Lat/Long: 55.5703571/-4.6030347
Bench
Backrest: no
Material: metal
Lat/Long: 55.5721718/-4.5997859
The data included in this document is from www.openstreetmap.org. The data is made available under ODbL.

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