Visiting North Third Reservoir

Overview 

Only a 15-minute drive from the centre of Stirling, North Third Reservoir is surrounded by a picture-perfect Scottish landscape of rolling hills, dense woodland, and rocky outcrops. Those visiting can enjoy this landscape with a variety of rural walks and cycling routes.  

The reservoir was built in 1911 and at its peak was delivering over 9 million litres of water a day. Although no longer in use, you can still see the now B-listed former pump house along the north shore. 

Visiting North Third Reservoir is a great opportunity to see the famous Bannock Burn, and those willing to make the climb to the top of Lewis Hill will be rewarded with fantastic views over the reservoir and all the way to the Highland Bens of Ben Ledi, Stùc a'Chròin and Ben Vorlich. 

Planning Your Visit 

Getting Here 

On Bike: North Third is a 35-minute cycle from Stirling city centre. Follow King’s Park Road onto Polmaise Road, turning left after crossing over the M9. At the Polmaise Road/Gateside Road T junction, turn right and follow Gateside Road until the reservoir becomes visible on your left.  

By Car: From the M80/M9 Bannockburn Interchange, take the exit marked Whins of Milton A872/tourist route to Stirling. Leave the A872 on the first left turn onto Pirnhall Road, and at the end of Pirnhall Road, turn left onto New Line Road to cross over the M9. Carry on along this Road, before turning right to follow signs for North Third Trout Fishery. Cross over the Bannock Burn and the reservoir will be on your right.  

Please plan your visit ahead and be prepared with alternative arrangements if no parking is available on site. Unfortunately, there are currently no public transport routes to the reservoir. 

Facilities 

• There are no toilets or bins at the reservoir. Please toilet responsibly and take your litter home. 
• There is no defined parking at the reservoir. 
• There are pathways, but many of them are rough and can be muddy after periods of rain. Suggested walks at site can be found on the Walk Highland website. 

Safety and Respect

Operations: Although no longer an operational reservoir, North Third is still maintained by Scottish Water and as a result, work may be ongoing at the site. For significant works, a project page will be advised.  

Water Safety: While the reservoir is no longer operational, there are still risks visitors should be aware of such as underwater infrastructure and dam structures. Access to these is restricted under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and we ask visitors to be responsible if taking to the water.  

Find more information on water safety at reservoirs here.

Camping: While wild camping is enabled through the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, this should not take place near any housing. Fires should be small, ideally using a stove, and not be under the tree canopy. Wild camping is lightweight and leaves absolutely no trace.  

Respect for Others: The reservoirs are enjoyed by a wide range of visitors. Everyone has a right to access, and we ask that everyone exercises their rights respectfully and responsibly. 

Antisocial behaviour has been an issue at this reservoir and will not be tolerated. Regular patrols by Police Scotland take place and any concerns should be reported to them directly.