The east end spot is filled with wildlife, and provides the perfect space for a head clearing walk, or a natter with a pal.
Hogganfield Loch is my favourite walking spots in Glasgow(Image: Glasgow Live)
When I moved to Glasgow just over a year ago, one of the first things I wanted to find was the best spots to simply go for a walk. I knew of some of the larger parks, such as Kelvingrove, Glasgow Green, and Pollok, but none of them are particularly close, and often they can be a bit too busy for my liking.
That was before I discovered what has to be my favourite spot, Hogganfield Loch.
To those who have never been, it may seem a bit unassuming. But for me, it’s a little bit of paradise hidden away in the east end and never fails to provide me with a head-clearing walk.
And for those who live locally and often pay it a visit, you’ll know it’s perfect for walking the dog, going for a run (something you’re unlikely to see me doing), having a natter with a pal, or somewhere to let your kids let off some steam.
The park is a cracking spot to clear the head, or got for a natter with a pal(Image: Glasgow Live)
It’s also a great spot for wildlife to thrive, with an array of birds, surprisingly friendly swans, and even a resident heron – which can often be seen perching over the loch. The wildlife there is so diverse that, in fact, photographers are often seen snapping up some of the best the area has to offer with their professional-looking cameras.
Part of the Seven Lochs Wetland Park, the loch is also a designated nature reserve, where there is a focus on letting nature flourish. Its history is interesting too.
According to Glasgow City Council, who maintains the spot, the loch was originally used as a water supply for various mills. Locals used to extract ice from the loch in the colder months, however, this was stopped in 1866 due to safety concerns.
Even the swans are friendly (most of the time)(Image: Glasgow Live)
Between 1924 and 1926, the loch was made deeper to allow boating and the wooden central island was created, and is now designated as a bird sanctuary. The loch, its surrounding woodlands, marsh and grasslands were declared a local nature reserve in 1998.
However, the best part for me is the gem of a coffee hut at the car park. The Coffee Box is always on hand to provide great coffee for an incredibly reasonable price.
It offers a great selection of hot food too, including burgers, toasties and hot rolls – I’ve yet to try the bacon rolls yet, but my partner has assured me they’re top class. You can check their Instagram here.
The Coffee Box is a personal highlight(Image: Glasgow Live)
Yes, some of the park is in need of TLC, including the abandoned play park, which could be done with being cleared and the derelict viewing platform at the car park, however, there seems to be a conscious effort to keep it looking at its best, which includes installing a camera on the island for people to view the wildlife.
I’m not usually one for New Year’s resolutions, but if I were to make one, it would be to visit the park as much as I can. It’s a fantastic, accessible spot that has a wee bit of something for everyone.