PLEASE NOTE: Construction work to provide a new accessible underpass connecting the "Sleeping Giant" path from Fife to the Loch Leven Heritage Trail is currently underway at the reserve. The reserve, including the shop and café, are all open as usual although there will be some disruption because of machinery working on site. We apologise for any inconvenience this causes.
Set on the southern shore of the loch and only 40 minutes from Edinburgh, RSPB Scotland Loch Leven offers a great day out for families, nature lovers and wildlife watchers alike.
Formerly known as Vane Farm, we bought this reserve in 1967 as a centre for environmental education and it is still a fantastic place for children to explore and discover nature today.
Climb the trail through the woodland to the top of Vane Hill for a spectacular view over the Kinross-shire hills and countryside, or meander down to the wetland trail where our three hides allow you to get really close to nature.
In the summer, you could see ospreys on the loch, and in the winter, thousands of pink-footed geese, swans and ducks make the reserve their home. If you are really lucky you may catch a glimpse of visiting white tailed eagles.
We have binoculars and Wild Challenge rucksacks for hire from the visitor centre, and children can get to know the wildlife here by grabbing a seasonal nature bingo. In spring and summer you can hire a pond dipping kit, and bug hunting kits are available all year. Explore the natural play area, walk the pushchair friendly Leafy Loop trail and build a minibeast mansion. We also run a programme of family and children’s events throughout the year and have special activities during school holidays.
The cafe is the first visitor attraction in Scotland to achieve the prestigious Gold Food for Life Catering Mark from the Soil Association and serves delicious, local and ethical food all year-round, all with a fantastic view over Loch Leven itself. The café takes hot food orders until 3 pm, and serves refreshments, snacks and cakes until 4 pm.
Entry is free for RSPB members. Non-members: adults £5, children £1, concessions £3 and family £10. For 2018 Year of Young People, YoungScot card holders can get free entry to the reserve.
This nature reserve is important for wildlife. RSPB Scotland welcomes responsible access, in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Other than assistance dogs, dogs are not permitted on the wetland and woodland trails or in the picnic area. Dogs can be walked along the Loch Leven Heritage Trail in accordance with the Scottish Access Code.
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