Pack a picnic and spend a great day outdoors at the RSPB.

As one of the few wetlands in Scotland, the reserve includes two shallow lochs (Barr Loch and Aird Meadow Loch), together with their surrounding water meadows, marshes and woodlands, which are perfect if you want to hang out with a variety of swans, wigeons and ducks. In spring, the great crested grebes put on elaborate displays for those who visit.

This wetland reserve is ideal for all the family (including dogs) as the trails, birdwatching hides and visitor centre are all easily accessible.

The reserve has an outdoor natural play area, an accessible trail and also runs events suitable for the whole family as well as daily drop-in kids’ activities (April to October).

While you’re here, pop into the visitor centre for a light snack or a browse in the shop which has an array of bird feeding products, books, gifts, clothing, toys, binoculars and telescopes.

Opening times

Visitor centre open daily from 10 am – 5 pm (except for the 25-26 December and 1-2 January). Trails and hides are open at all times. Toilet facilities will be open from 10am – 5pm.

There is currently no date for the reopening indoor viewing facilities or seating, inside the visitor centre.

Accessibility

We currently have no date for reopening indoor viewing facilities or seating, inside the visitor centre.

RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve is very accessible with activities catering to all.

25-30 parking spaces and three Blue Badge spaces 20 metres from the visitor centre.

Getting there

Lochwinnoch train station is 400 metres from the visitor centre. Bus stops on A737 at Roadhead roundabout and A760 at Newton of Barr. National Cycle Route 7 runs through the reserve, adjacent to the A737.

Cost

Free entrance to RSPB members

Non-members

• Adults – £3 entrance fee to trails
• Children – £1.50 entrance fee to trails
• Free entrance for under 5s
• Free entrance for carers
• Family discount for trails (3 people or more): As above plus one child free.
• Please note that charges apply to the self-led activities (£2 per kit / free for RSPB members) and events/special self-led activities (discounted for members).

Eat / drink

Snacks available