08-07-2025
Scottish loch crowned 'most scenic lake' in UK blowing Lake District out the water
Six lochs have been named among the most picturesque across the UK.
A Scottish loch has been named the "most scenic lake" in the UK. It triumphed over popular beauty spots in the renowned Lake District in England.
Scotland features more than 30,000 freshwater lochs in total. Some of these are famous around the world, while many others are hidden gems known only by locals.
On Monday, July 7, GO Outdoors shared a list of the most picturesque lochs and lakes across the UK according to social media postings on Instagram and TikTok. Six out of the 10 beauty spots named are located in Scotland.
Coming in at number one on the experts' list is Loch Lomond. Situated in the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, the loch has 672,500 social media posts in total.
According to GO Outdoors, there are 629,000 posts on Instagram tagging Loch Lomond. Meanwhile, there are 43,500 videos on TikTok of the iconic loch.
Loch Lomond is the largest freshwater body of water in Great Britain by surface area, measuring 22.6 miles long and featuring a surface area of 27.5 square miles. Famously featuring in the song 'The Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond', it is among the most popular beauty spots in the country.
Loch Lomond is a top hiking destination, surrounded by dramatic hills. Visitors can climb the nearby Ben Lomond mountain to get incredible views out over the water.
Following behind in second place on the experts' roundup is Loch Ness. The beauty spot, which is located in the Scottish Highlands, has received 585,700 total social media posts according to GO Outdoors.
Loch Ness has the largest volume and is the second-deepest of any freshwater body of water in Great Britain. The loch is best known around the world for the supposed sightings of the mythical Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as 'Nessie'.
In addition to Nessie, Loch Ness is famous for being the site of the picturesque Urquhart Castle. The ruined castle dates back to the 13th century, and was passed between Scotland and England during the Wars of Independence.
Elsewhere in Scotland, Loch Fyne placed at number five on the list of the "most scenic lakes" in the UK. The loch on the west coast of Argyll and Bute was found to have 66,025 total posts on Instagram on TikTok.
Other lochs to be included on the roundup are Loch Tay in the Central Highlands, Loch Leven in Kinross, and Loch Morlich at the foot of Cairngorm Mountain. The three beauty spots were found to have 53,217, 52,818, and 49,223 social media posts about them respectively.
Author and outdoor enthusiast at GO Outdoors Natalie Wolfenden commented: "From Loch Lomond to Wast Water, the UK is home to spectacular lakes, and as the weather gets warmer, there's no better time to get outside and enjoy their natural beauty.
"To make the most of your lake visit, it is important to be prepared. Walking boots and sturdy waterproof jackets will ensure you remain comfortable no matter the weather, while a day pack to carry essentials, like a reusable water bottle and snacks, will ensure you are well-equipped for your lake adventure!"
GO Outdoors website.
The 'most scenic lakes' in the UK
Loch Lomond, Scotland
Loch Ness, Scotland
Derwentwater, England
Windermere, England
Loch Fyne, Scotland
Loch Tay, Scotland
Loch Leven, Scotland
Wast Water, England
Loch Morlich, Scotland
Coniston Water, England
