Wild Swimming
Loch Tummel
Made famous by Queen Victoria's view from the Queen's View viewpoint, Loch Tummel stretches for 13km through classic Highland scenery of pine and birch forest, with Schiehallion's cone presiding over the western end. The gravel shore near Tummel Bridge is the best swim entry — secluded, with a slow shelving depth and lovely filtered light through the trees. The loch is a hydroelectric reservoir, which keeps the water notably cold even in August.
Quick facts
- Type
- Loch
- Region
- Perthshire
- Grid ref
- NN 825 600
- Entry
- Gravel / pebble
- Depth
- Medium (chest-deep)
- Summer water temp
- 10–17°C
- Midges
- Moderate
- Dogs
- Off-lead OK
Key hazards
- cold water shock
- hydro-scheme draw — do not swim near the dam end
Getting there
Park at Tummel Bridge village (PH16 5LR) or at the Queen's View Forestry car park and walk 1.5km down to the shore. SOAC rights apply throughout. Do not swim within 500m of either dam structure.
Parking postcode: PH16 5LR
Safety
Cold throughout the season due to hydro storage. Sudden level changes are possible after heavy rain. Stay well clear of the dam and intake structures at both ends.
Best for
- scenic photography
- Schiehallion combination day
- quiet weekday swim
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:11
- Sunset
- 21:13
- Civil dawn
- 04:22
- Civil dusk
- 22:01
NOAA Solar Calculator · 9 May 2026
Common questions
- Is Loch Tummel safe to swim in?
- Yes, with care. The main hazard is the hydroelectric infrastructure — stay well away from both dam ends. The loch is cold year-round (10–17°C) and depth comes quickly off the shore shelf.
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