Loch Ken facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Loch Ken |
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 Loch Ken
Location in Dumfries and Galloway
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| Location | Dumfries and Galloway |
| Coordinates | 55°00′32″N 4°03′22″W / 55.009°N 4.056°W |
| Type | freshwater loch, |
| Primary inflows | Water of Ken, River Dee |
| Basin countries | Scotland |
| Max. length | 9 mi (14 km) |
| Settlements | Glenlochar, Laurieston, Mossdale, Crossmichael, Parton |
| Official name: Loch Ken & River Dee Marshes | |
| Designated: | 31 August 1992 |
| Reference #: | 568 |
Loch Ken is a beautiful freshwater lake in Scotland. It's about 9 miles (14.5 km) long. You can find it in an area called the Glenkens, in Dumfries and Galloway. Two rivers, the Water of Ken and the River Dee, flow into Loch Ken. The water then flows out as the River Dee from the south end, near a place called Glenlochar. Here, a special dam called the Glenlochar Barrage helps control the river's flow. This barrage is part of a big project that uses water to make electricity!
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Exploring Loch Ken
Loch Ken is a great place for many fun outdoor activities. People enjoy water skiing, fishing, and sailing on the loch. There are also places like Glenlaggan Lodges and Loch Ken Marina that welcome visitors.
Towns and Villages Around Loch Ken
Several small towns and villages are located around Loch Ken. These include Glenlochar at the south end, Laurieston and Mossdale on the west side, and Crossmichael and Parton on the east side. The village of New Galloway is just a mile north of the loch. The old parish church of Balmaghie is also right by the loch.
The Old Railway Viaduct
An old railway bridge, called a viaduct, crosses Loch Ken at a spot known as Boat o' Rhone. This bridge was once part of the Portpatrick Railway. Today, it's no longer used and is not safe to cross.
A Special Place for Nature
Loch Ken and the nearby River Dee Marshes are very important for nature. Because of this, the area was named a Ramsar site on August 21, 1992. A Ramsar site is a wetland area that is recognized internationally for its importance to wildlife, especially water birds.
Kenmure Castle and the Giant Pike
At the northern end of Loch Ken, you can see the historic Kenmure Castle. A long time ago, a gamekeeper named John Murray worked for the Gordons at the castle. He was famous for catching the biggest Northern pike ever recorded in the loch! This huge fish weighed 72 pounds (about 33 kg) and was around seven feet (2.1 meters) long. Imagine, its head rested on his shoulder, and its tail touched the ground! The skeleton of the pike's head was kept at Kenmure Castle for many years. John Murray passed away in 1777 and is buried at Kells Churchyard. His tombstone even has carvings of his hunting and fishing gear.
Loch Ken Trust
In June 2020, a group called the Loch Ken Trust was created. This organization works to protect and promote the natural beauty, history, and fun activities around the Loch Ken area. Their goal is to help local communities and make sure everyone can enjoy this special place.
