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Loch Lomond facts for kids

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Loch Lomond
View of loch lomond.JPG
Location West Dunbartonshire/Argyll and Bute/Stirling
Coordinates 56°05′N 4°34′W / 56.083°N 4.567°W / 56.083; -4.567
Type freshwater loch
Primary inflows Endrick Water, Fruin Water, River Falloch
Primary outflows River Leven
Catchment area 696 km2 (269 sq mi)
Basin countries Scotland
Max. length 39 km (24 mi)
Max. width 8 km (5.0 mi)
Surface area 71 km2 (27 sq mi)
Average depth 37 m (121 ft)
Max. depth 190 m (620 ft)
Water volume 2.6 km3 (0.62 cu mi)
Residence time 1.9 years
Surface elevation 7.6 m (25 ft)
Islands 60 (Inchcailloch, Inchmurrin, Inchfad)
Sections/sub-basins north basin, south basin


Loch Lomond is a famous freshwater loch (which is the Scottish word for a lake!). It's located in Scotland and is the biggest inland body of water in Great Britain when you look at its surface area. This beautiful loch is home to many islands, including Inchmurrin, which is the largest freshwater island in the whole British Isles. Loch Lomond is a favorite spot for fun activities and is even famous from the old Scottish song, The Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond.

About Loch Lomond's Location and Size

Loch Lomond sits right on the Highland Boundary Fault. This is a very old geological line that divides the Lowlands of central Scotland from the rugged Highlands.

How Big is Loch Lomond?

This loch is quite long! It stretches for about 24 miles (39 kilometres). Its width changes a lot, from about 0.75 miles (1.21 km) to 5 miles (8 km) across.

The average depth of Loch Lomond is around 121 feet (37 metres). But in some places, it gets much deeper, reaching about 620 feet (190 metres) at its deepest point. The total surface area of the loch is about 27 square miles (71 km2). It holds a huge amount of water, about 0.62 cubic miles (2.6 km3)!

Comparing Loch Lomond to Other Lakes

Loch Lomond is the largest lake in Great Britain by its surface area. When you look at how much water it holds, it's the second largest in Great Britain, right after Loch Ness.

If we look at the entire United Kingdom, Loch Lomond is still very big. Only Lough Neagh and Lower Lough Erne in Northern Ireland are larger. There are also a few bigger lakes in the Republic of Ireland.

Islands of Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is famous for its many islands. There are over 60 islands and islets (tiny islands) scattered across the loch. These islands add to the beauty and unique feel of the area.

Inchmurrin Island

One of the most notable islands is Inchmurrin. It holds the record for being the largest freshwater island in the entire British Isles. Many of the islands have interesting histories and are home to different kinds of wildlife.

Loch Lomond as a Fun Place to Visit

Loch Lomond is a very popular place for people to visit and enjoy the outdoors. It's a great spot for many different activities.

Popular Activities at the Loch

  • Boating and Water Sports: With its large size, the loch is perfect for sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and even water skiing.
  • Walking and Hiking: The areas around the loch offer many walking paths, from easy strolls to challenging hikes up nearby mountains like Ben Lomond.
  • Wildlife Spotting: The loch and its islands are home to various birds and animals, making it a great place for nature lovers.
  • Relaxing: Many people simply enjoy the beautiful views and peaceful atmosphere of the loch.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Lago Lomond para niños

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