St Mary's Loch, Natural lake and Site of Special Scientific Interest in Scottish Borders, Scotland.
St Mary's Loch is a natural freshwater lake in the Scottish Borders, stretching across the valley with a long, narrow shape and considerable depth throughout. The shoreline alternates between wooded sections and open banks, while surrounding hills create a sheltered landscape.
A medieval church dedicated to St Mary once stood on the northern shore and gave the lake its name, though only the burial ground survives from that structure. The area has been home to fishing and other activities for centuries.
Walking routes follow the shoreline here, inviting visitors to explore on foot and experience the connection between the water and surrounding hills.
Parking areas are located near the main access points around the shoreline, making it straightforward to reach walking routes and viewing spots. Facilities including a cafe and a sailing club provide amenities for various activities throughout the day.
Brown trout, pike, perch, and eels swim in the waters today, yet Arctic charr vanished centuries ago due to overfishing that depleted populations. This shift shows how fishing practices shaped the lake's wildlife over generations.
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