Help us protect this exceptional nature reserve and the wildlife which lives here by following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and advice from the Cairngorms National Park Authority.
Only a 20 minute drive from Aviemore, Loch Garten Nature Centre offers the chance to get close to some of Scotland's most amazing wildlife.
Abernethy is ancient, wild and immeasurably special.
Reaching from the River Nethy to the top of Ben Macdui (Britain’s second highest mountain), it boasts ancient Caledonian pineforest, sweeping moorland, vital wetland and dramatic mountains.
Loch Garten is the place that ospreys returned to in the 1950s after a period of extinction in the UK - they still return here every spring to breed. The Loch Garten Nature Centre (formally the Osprey Centre) has views onto the nest, plus hi-definition remote viewing. Red squirrels, bank voles, crested tits and lots of other woodland birds visit our feeders and our friendly staff will help you have a memorable visit.
We have a range of nature activities available for families and a programme of events throughout the year, including regular forest guided walks. Our shop sells gifts, binoculars, books, wildlife care, sandwiches, ice creams, snacks and hot drinks.
Abernethy Forest is a truly memorable place to visit and was named Nature Reserve of the Year in the BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards Competition, 2017.
Opening times:
COVID UPDATE: Loch Garten Nature Centre and toilets will remain closed until further notice.
The Nature Centre is open daily, 10 am–5.30 pm from April to mid-October. Last entry is 4.30pm. The wider Abernethy reserve is open all year.
Admission:
Adults £5, concession £3, under 16s £2, family (up to two adults and four children) £10. RSPB and Wildlife Explorer members: free, free.
Information for dog owners:
This nature reserve is an important place for wildlife. We welcome responsible dog walkers to the reserve, in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. During the ground-nesting bird breeding season (1 April to 15 August) and when walking in the forest or by the loch there is risk of disturbance to wildlife including capercaillie and their young. We therefore ask you to keep your dog on a lead at all times in these areas. Please note that dogs are not permitted in the Nature Centre, except guide dogs.
Accessibility Guide
For further information on accessibility please visit: https://www.accessibilityguides.org/content/rspb-scotland-loch-garten-osprey-centre
Car parking:
Disabled parking bays available and cars may be driven to the centre entrance by arrangement.
Wheelchair loan:
Please telephone to pre-book or ask at reception on arrival. Staff are available to help wheelchair users.
Help for visually impaired visitors:
Osprey nest microphones provide help for those with a hearing impairment. Staff assistance is also available to provide descriptions of the CCTV pictures.
