Vane Farm RSPB Nature Reserve (Kinross)

The RSPB Vane Farm bird reserves is at the southern end of Loch Leven - which is a largeish body of shallow water surrounded by a disappointing amount of intensive agriculture in the Perth and Kinross district of Scotland. It's apparently an excellent place to watch wild waterfowl in autumn and winter, but personally I've only visited in summer when there is a bit less to see. Still, it's in a lovely setting with walks through birch woods up the hill behind the loch and the RSPB centre, together with the extensive metalled walks through the woods and around the loch, make it a good base for a family day out. From the RSPB centre one of the walks takes you ...  Read the complete review

Loch Leven is situated midway between Perth and Edinburgh and is the largest loch in the Scottish Lowlands. The loch has the largest breeding population of ducks in inland Europe and is visited by thousands of migrating ducks, geese and swans every winter. In recognition of its importance for wildlife, Loch Leven has been designated as a National Nature Reserve (National Nature Reserve status indicates that a site is one of the UK's most important sites for wildlife). The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds owns and manages a reserve on the banks of Loch Leven. This makes a superb focal point for a visit to the area. Members of the RSPB get in ...  Read the complete review