Loch Katrine – A brief history

Loch Katrine is one of the largest lochs in the Trossachs at almost 9 miles long and is owned by Scottish Water as the primary water supply to Glasgow.

It’s name is thought to come from the “caterans” or cattle rustlers that once inhabited the Trossachs, the most notorious of whom was Rob Roy MacGregor. His birthplace in 1671 was Glen Gyle at the western end of Loch Katrine.

This famous Scottish folk hero and outlaw was a multi talented man, also a great swordsman and soldier and who later settled down and became a successful businessman. After an unfortunate incident He was declared an outlaw which began his campaign of harassment against the Duke of Montrose even imprisoning the Dukes factor on an island. Factors Island can be seen from Stronachlachar.  MacGregor died a pardoned man in 1734 at Balquhidder.

Loch Katrine is also famous for its association with Sir Walter Scott and his poem The Lady of the Lake.  Today a steamship named the Sir Walter Scott  provides pleasure cruises and a ferry service on Loch Katrine between Trossachs Pier and Stronachlachar.

Queen Victoria opened this water supply to Glasgow in 1859 and Scottish Water as the owners of Loch Katrine ensure the purity, tranquility and beauty by prohibiting certain activities.  Fossil fuelled engines and bait/bank fishing are therefore not permitted.

Loch Katrine is a beautiful destination to enjoy an abundance of outdoor activities.