Loch Thom

Loch Thom is a reservoir high above Greenock in Inverclyde. It was built in 1827 by Robert Thom to supply water to the growing town. The loch curves in a rough C-shape, about 2.4 kilometres long and 195 metres above sea level. Water flows from its northern arm to a compensation reservoir at the centre, then through Cornalees Bridge to The Cut. The reservoir also feeds sport fishing and lies within Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park. The scheme began when Greenock’s streams and wells could no longer meet demand. Robert Thom’s design turned Shaws Water, a natural lake, into a controlled supply. The Shaws Water Joint Stock Company raised £30,000 to build the aqueduct. By 1827, water powered mills, including paper, woollen, and sugar works. A drought in 1852 dried the loch, halting industry until more reservoirs were added. Visitors find several nature trails around the loch and the Greenock Cut Visitor Centre at Cornalees Bridge. The centre offers a small museum and ranger services for outdoor learning. The Cut itself is a 9-kilometre aqueduct with restored sluice gates that once regulated water flow. Walkers follow the level path beside the aqueduct, while the surrounding hills provide views of Greenock and the Firth of Clyde.