Castle Semple Loch

Castle Semple Loch lies in Renfrewshire, a freshwater loch two and a half kilometres long near Lochwinnoch. Once part of a larger body of water called Loch Winnoch, it was divided by silt from the River Calder in the 18th century. The loch now forms part of Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park and hosts a watersports centre. An RSPB bird sanctuary occupies its southern shore, where visitors can watch waterfowl and wading birds. The loch has also been the setting for curling matches and rowing championships. Historic records from the 16th century describe a single large loch called Garnoth that included Castle Semple and nearby waters. Drainage schemes in the 17th and 18th centuries altered the landscape, separating the lochs and creating the present shape. The ruins of a peel tower on the southern shore recall a mediaeval stronghold used for defence. On the northern shore stands a 16th-century collegiate church built by John, Lord Sempill, now cared for by Historic Environment Scotland. A well-maintained path follows the northern shore past the collegiate church and the remains of Castle Semple’s walled garden. The Temple, an octagonal 18th-century structure, crowns Kenmuir Hill above the former house. A boardwalk from the RSPB reserve leads to the peel tower ruins on the southern shore. The surrounding parkland offers views across the water and opportunities to spot birds in the sanctuary.