Abernethy is a nature reserve that is ancient, wild and immeasurably special – a place so extraordinary that it can feel like another country. Nestled in Abernethy, the Loch Garten Nature Centre is the perfect spot to experience this amazing forest.
Our team are on hand to help with CCTV screens, binoculars and telescopes to help you to get great views of the forest wildlife. An exhibition, daily talks and family activities ensure there’s something for everyone. Our shop sells gifts, binoculars, books, sandwiches, snacks and hot drinks. So you can take your coffee onto the forest decking and watch the birds close up at the feeders!
Children and families will find a wealth of nature-related activities to enjoy at the Nature Centre from completing your own Wildlife Challenge passport to spotting forest fairy folk or having a go at building your own giant osprey nest. At the centre you can enjoy playing in our natural outdoor kitchen and get up-close to woodland birds and red squirrels at our feeders.
There are also activities such as moth-trapping, owl-pellet dissection and bug-hunting with sweep-nets happening throughout the season, as well as special events for all the family. Check out our events page or social media for more details.
Out and about around the Centre there is the Big Pines trail that leads from the Nature Centre car-park to the Loch Mallachie car-park (where the Two Lochs trail starts) and takes in some of the biggest Scots pine trees on the reserve.
The Two Lochs trail, accessed from the Loch Mallachie car-park, offers some of the finest views on the reserve, across Loch Garten and Loch Mallachie, and winds its way through the Caledonian pineforest.
Entry charges: adults - £5, children (under 16) - £2.50, children (under 5) - free, family - free entry for one child in a group, student - £3.50, Free entry for RSPB members and carers.
Centre open seasonally – please check webpage for opening times.
