Loch of Butterstone facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Loch of Butterstone
Loch of Butterstone in winter
Loch of Butterstone Location in Perth and Kinross
Coordinates	56°35′14″N 3°32′01″W / 56.587100°N 3.533700°W / 56.587100; -3.533700
Type	freshwater loch
Primary inflows	Lunan Burn
Primary outflows	Lunan Burn
Surface area	43.5 ha (107 acres)
Average depth	3.43 m (11.25 ft)
Max. depth	7.6 m (25 ft)
Water volume	1,508,800 m3 (53,283,000 cu ft)
Shore length1	2.8 km (1.7 mi)
Surface elevation	97 m (318 ft)
Max. temperature	17 °C (63 °F)
Min. temperature	12 °C (53 °F)
Settlements	Dunkeld
1 Shore length is not a well-defined measure.

The Loch of Butterstone is a small, nearly round freshwater lake. It is located in a nature reserve called the Cardney Estate. This beautiful loch is found near the town of Dunkeld in Perth and Kinross, Scotland.

It is one of three lakes that are close to each other. The other two are Loch of the Lowes and Loch of Craiglush. These three lochs form a group known as the Lunan Lochs. Loch of Butterstone is at the northwest end of this group.

About the Loch of Butterstone

Loch of Butterstone is known for its incredibly clear water. People often describe it as gin clear. This is quite special in Scotland, as many lochs have a darker, peaty color. The loch is a popular spot for fly fishing.

Location and Nearby Towns

The largest town close to the loch is Dunkeld. It lies to the southeast of the lake. A main road, the A923, passes to the north of the three Lunan Lochs. This road connects Dundee to Dunkeld.

The Lunan Burn

The loch is at the start of a valley where the Lunan Burn flows. This burn (which is a small stream or river) flows east and southeast. It eventually joins the River Isla near Coupar Angus.

Surrounding Landscape

View from Benachally Monument. This is the view towards Loch of Butterstone and Loch of Lowes. Beyond is Newtyle Hill, and on the right of the picture, Birnam Hill. It is just possible to see in front of Loch of Lowes the small stand of trees that appeared above the mist.

The three Lunan Lochs are in a shallow valley. Looking from Dunkeld, the valley faces northeast. A notable feature nearby is Newtyle Hill, which is about 317 meters (1,040 feet) high. It is closest to Loch of Lowes.

On the other side of the valley are some smaller hills. These include Crieff Hill, which rises to Craig More. The area around the loch is very wooded. For example, Drumbuie Wood is on the west slope, if you are looking from Dunkeld.

Conservation and Nature

The Loch of Butterstone is part of the Cardney Estate nature reserve. This means the area is protected to help preserve its natural beauty and wildlife. It is also recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation. These titles show how important the loch and its surroundings are for nature.

Many people enjoy birdwatching here. The area is home to various birds and other wildlife. Protecting these areas helps animals and plants thrive.