Kinross, market place

March 2017

... has Kinross as its old county town. Kinross-shire is the second-smallest Scots county and at its heart is Lock Leven. This large loch cradles several islands, of which the most significant is Castle Island, where Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned (1567-8). Loch Leven Castle is a Historic Environment Scotland property.

Although there are boat trips in summer to the island the old county town of Kinross makes little effort to capitalise on its famous ex-resident.

A "heritage" trail that skirts the loch is attractive and interesting, passing a pier or two, the Boathouse restaurant, Kinross House, an old graveyard, woods, fields, a nature reserve, café and RSPB bird centre. The whole walk is 13 miles, which we completed in one go, though there are bus stops nearby which could cut the walk short if preferred.

We stayed at the Kirklands Hotel, which we found comfortable, convenient, inexpensive and very welcoming. Kirklands is a very good hotel with excellent food and delightful staff. We inspected alternative restaurants but chose Kirklands every time. Buses from Edinburgh, Perth, Dundee and Stirling pause at the Kinross park & ride which is just 10 minutes walk from the hotel and the centre of town. A further 5 minutes takes you to the walk and the loch itself.

As well as a transport hub Kinross, now bypassed by the M90, is a pleasant old town, once properous, currently in a good position to expand and deelop - if only it would decide what to do with its Carnegie Library and make the most of its Mary Queen of Scots connection.

The Heritage Walk has no need of an OS map and follows a well-signed trail, broad and flat and firm underfoot, perfect for cyclists and walkers alike. Hardly adventurous, but a very easy 13 miles.

This (above) is the Kirkgate Park churchyard with a view in the background of Castle Island.

Below some of the information and signposting on the Loch Leven Heritage Trail.