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Loch Ness
FAQ
Where is the Loch Ness?
Loch Ness is located in the Scottish Highlands. The northern end of the loch is around 7 miles south of Inverness. The River Ness flows through Inverness and into Loch Ness at its northern tip.
What size is Loch Ness?
Loch Ness is 22.5 miles long at it’s longest point. It stretches up to 1.7 miles wide. It’s the second largest Scottish loch by surface area, after Loch Lomond.
How deep is Loch Ness?
It has an average depth of 433ft but can be up to 744ft deep in places. It’s the second deepest loch in Scotland (the deepest is Loch Morar) but due to it’s size it has the largest volume of water. It’s said to contain more water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined.
Are there villages by Loch Ness?
Yes, there are a number of small villages by the shores of the loch. Fort Augustus is right at the southern tip, Drumnadrochit is on the west coast and both Foyers and Dores are on the east coast of the loch.
Will I see the Loch Ness Monster?
Monster hunters can certainly keep their eyes peeled. There have been 4 official sightings in 2021 so far. You can learn more about the history of the Loch Ness monster below.
Did you know?
In 2005, 100 athletes were insured against monster bites while taking part in a triathlon at Loch Ness.
What is the history of the Loch Ness Monster?
It’s written that in the 6th century, Irish Missionary St Columba shouted at the Loch Ness monster. That was the start of the recorded sightings but it wasn’t until the 20th century that Nessie became a popular phenomenon. In the 1930’s the local press shared there were several accounts of Nessie. George Spicer and his wife claimed to have seen the monster in 1933 which sparked interest in the public.
In 1934 a motorcyclist claimed he almost hit Nessie and drew a picture of the ‘monster’. This was likely to have been either a seal or an otter. Later the same year a man from London submitted, the first photograph of Nessie known as the ‘Surgeon’s Photograph’ to the Daily Mail. Many now believe this to be a hoax but there are some who are still sure a monster exists.
In 2018, a DNA survey of loch water samples showed no evidence of Nessie was to be found.
Can I visit a castle near Loch Ness?
Yes, the ruins of Urquhart Castle sit on the banks of Loch Ness. It’s the 3rd most visited castle in Scotland.
Founded in the 13th century the castle played an important part in Scottish History, particularly in the Wars of Independence. Throughout the wars the castle was under both Scottish and English control. Government soldiers fighting in the Jacobite risings set explosives in the castle on their exit, leaving behind the famous ruins we see today.
Visitors can walk through the ruins and imagine what life was like in medieval Scotland. There are also information boards around the site too. Inside there’s a short film about the castle to enjoy alongside a well stocked gift shop.
Would you like to visit Loch Ness on tour?
We have 1 day tours to Loch Ness, as well as Multi-Day tours to the Isle of Skye which visit the Loch too. You can find all of our tours to the area on our Loch Ness Destination page.
