River restoration work is being carried out to the Back Burn in Coul Den in summer 2025. Paths may be diverted or closed therefore please follow on-site signage. Learn about the Back Burn restoration project.
Built in 1890 as a reservoir suppling water to the Haig Bottling Plant in Markinch, Coul Den is now a shallow loch with landscaped ponds, and an impressive path network.
It is an important site both for wildlife and for the surrounding community to enjoy. It’s a great place for education and quiet recreation. The path network has rest areas and there are picnic areas near the car park and at the water’s edge. The walk around the loch is about 0.75 miles. If you are feeling adventurous, Coul Den can also be a good starting point for a trek to the summit of East Lomond, about 2 miles away. Just follow the path leaving the north western corner of the site.
Many birds, insects, and mammals are attracted to Coul Den Reservoir thanks to its large areas of developing natural habitats. It is one of the largest areas of natural occurring ‘Willow Carr’ in Fife. Amphibians thrive in the ponds and dragonflies and damselflies are abundant in summer. You may see the common breeding birds Mute Swan, Coot, Moorhen and Little Grebe.
Coul Den has its own car park, reached by turning north off Tanna Drive, Glenrothes. You can also walk from the car park at the top of Moidart Drive.
We can enjoy the outdoors on most land and inland water in Scotland as long as we act responsibly and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. This means: care for the environment, respect the interests of others and be responsible for your own actions. Please take your rubbish home and leave only footprints.
