Clatto Country Park: Dundee’s Tranquil Reservoir Retreat

A peaceful Dundee park centered on a historic reservoir, woodland trails, and family-friendly play areas for nature lovers and walkers.

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Clatto Country Park

Clatto Country Park in Dundee offers a serene escape featuring a large historic reservoir, woodland trails, and a children’s play area. Established in 1874 as part of Dundee’s water supply, the park now provides peaceful walking paths around the reservoir and through adjoining woods. It’s a favored spot for families, dog walkers, and nature lovers seeking fresh air and scenic views within easy reach of the city.

A brief summary to Clatto Country Park

Dundee, Dundee, GB
+441382436505
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 8:45 am-11:30 pm
Tuesday 8:45 am-11:30 pm
Wednesday 8:45 am-11:30 pm
Thursday 8:45 am-11:30 pm
Friday 8:45 am-11:30 pm
Saturday 8:45 am-11:30 pm
Sunday 8:45 am-11:30 pm

Local tips

Keep dogs on a lead to protect local wildlife such as deer and rabbits.
Explore beyond the reservoir by taking trails into Baldragon Woods and Templeton Woods.
Check for any blue-green algae advisories before engaging in watersports activities.
Visit the children’s play area tucked away within the park for family-friendly fun.

Getting There

Bus

Local bus services connect Dundee city center to stops near Clatto Country Park, with journey times of approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run regularly throughout the day but check schedules for weekend frequency. A single fare costs around £2.50.
Car

Driving from Dundee city center to Clatto Country Park takes about 10-15 minutes via main roads. Parking is available on-site but can fill up during weekends and holidays. There is no parking fee.
Walking

For those nearby, walking to Clatto Country Park offers a pleasant 30-45 minute route through residential neighborhoods and green spaces. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for all fitness levels.

Clatto Country Park location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Clatto Country Park

A Historic Reservoir at the Heart of Dundee

Clatto Country Park centers around the Clatto Reservoir, constructed in 1874 to supply water to Dundee. Though no longer connected to the city's water system, the reservoir remains a defining feature of the park. Its calm waters reflect the changing skies and provide habitat for local wildlife, including swans and other bird species. The reservoir’s origins as a vital municipal resource contribute to the park’s unique character and historical significance within Dundee’s green spaces.

Natural Woodland and Scenic Trails

Surrounding the reservoir are extensive woodland areas and well-maintained paths that invite visitors to explore on foot or by bike. These trails extend into neighboring Baldragon Woods, Clatto Moor, and Templeton Woods, offering varied terrain and peaceful natural settings. The flat, gentle routes around the reservoir are accessible for casual walkers and families, while more adventurous visitors can venture into the adjoining forests for a deeper nature experience.

Family-Friendly Amenities and Wildlife Encounters

Clatto Country Park is known for its welcoming atmosphere, particularly for families with children. A tucked-away play area features swings, slides, and other equipment, providing a safe and fun environment for youngsters. The park is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts; visitors often spot rabbits and deer, and birdwatchers can enjoy observing waterfowl on the reservoir. The presence of wildlife encourages responsible dog walking, with many visitors advised to keep pets on leads to protect the natural habitat.

Recreational Activities and Community Use

The reservoir is utilized by the nearby Ancrum Outdoor Centre for watersports activities, although visitors should note occasional advisories such as blue-green algae warnings. The open grassy areas and paths also support jogging, cycling, and general outdoor exercise. Clatto Country Park serves as a valued community resource, offering a green refuge for relaxation, fitness, and informal gatherings throughout the year.

Accessibility and Visitor Facilities

Open daily from early morning until late evening, the park provides easy access from Dundee’s northern neighborhoods. Facilities include a ranger station and public restrooms, though some amenities like toilets may occasionally be closed for maintenance. Signage throughout the park helps visitors navigate the trails and learn about the local environment. The park’s proximity to the city makes it a convenient destination for day trips and short escapes into nature.

Seasonal Appeal and Atmosphere

Clatto Country Park’s atmosphere shifts with the seasons, from vibrant spring blossoms and summer greenery to the crisp tranquility of autumn and winter. Its expansive open skies and views toward the Ochil Hills enhance the scenic experience. Whether for a quiet stroll, a family outing, or wildlife observation, the park offers a refreshing natural setting that contrasts with urban life while remaining easily accessible.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Balgarthno Stone Circle

3.1 km

Bronze Age stones standing sentinel over Dundee's prehistoric past, a timeless circle of mystery and ancient wisdom.

Cox's Stack

3.2 km

Scotland’s tallest surviving industrial chimney, Cox’s Stack towers over Dundee as a proud symbol of its jute manufacturing heritage.

Dundee War Memorial

3.9 km

A dignified memorial on elevated ground in Dundee, honoring local heroes with panoramic city views and a serene atmosphere.

DD Tours

4.6 km

Explore Scotland's beauty with DD Tours, offering personalized experiences and expert guides for an unforgettable journey through this enchanting land.

Black Watch Memorial

5.0 km

A solemn bronze tribute on Dundee’s heights honoring the brave men of the Black Watch who sacrificed their lives in WWII.

The Sinderins

5.0 km

Historic crossroads in Dundee marking the sundering of roads with rich local heritage and urban charm.

Dundemo

5.1 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dundee at Dundemo, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories come together in a lively atmosphere.

Robert Burns Statue

5.3 km

Discover Dundee’s unique Robert Burns Statue, a rare Scottish tribute to the nation’s beloved poet, linking local pride with global heritage.

Oor Wullie Bronze Statue

5.3 km

Celebrate Scotland’s cheeky comic hero with a visit to the iconic Oor Wullie Bronze Statue in Dundee’s vibrant city centre.

Wishart's Arch

5.4 km

The last standing gateway of Dundee’s 16th-century city walls, echoing tales of plague, faith, and resilience.

The Yard Market Dundee

5.5 km

Experience Dundee’s vibrant monthly market celebrating local makers, street food, and community spirit in a historic church setting.

Meeting House

5.6 km

Experience the serene ambiance of Meeting House, a historical church in Dundee, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Dundee Historic Environment Trust

5.6 km

Explore Dundee's rich heritage at the Dundee Historic Environment Trust, where history and environmental conservation come together.

St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall

5.6 km

Experience the best of Scottish craft beer and delicious local cuisine at St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall in Dundee, a must-visit for food and drink lovers.

Metalurgey

5.6 km

Explore your creativity at Metalurgey, Dundee's top tattoo and piercing shop, where artistry meets personal expression for everyone.

Unmissable attractions to see

Camperdown Wildlife Centre

2.0 km

Discover endangered wildlife and immersive animal experiences in Dundee’s scenic Camperdown Country Park.

Kingsway West Retail Park

2.7 km

A vibrant retail hub in Dundee offering diverse shopping, dining, and convenience from early morning till evening daily.

Muirhead Backmuir Community Wood

2.8 km

A peaceful 140-acre woodland sanctuary near Dundee, perfect for tranquil walks and wildlife spotting in a natural Scottish setting.

The Stack Retail Park

3.0 km

A bustling retail and leisure hub in Dundee’s Lochee area, offering popular stores and convenient shopping for all needs.

Menzieshill Water Tower

3.2 km

Explore the Menzieshill Water Tower in Dundee, a serene landmark reflecting the city's rich architectural history and offering picturesque surroundings.

Tayside Medical History Museum

3.7 km

Discover Dundee’s medical past through fascinating exhibits at the Tayside Medical History Museum within Ninewells Hospital.

Mills Observatory

3.7 km

Explore the stars and planets at Britain’s first public observatory, perched atop Dundee’s scenic Balgay Hill.

Trottick Ponds

3.9 km

A peaceful urban nature reserve in Dundee blending historic ponds, diverse wildlife, and scenic walking trails.

Balgay Park

3.9 km

Historic hilltop park in Dundee offering scenic woodlands, panoramic river views, botanical gardens, and the unique Mills Observatory.

Dundee Law

3.9 km

Dundee Law, a volcanic peak and historic hillfort, offers sweeping 360° views and a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Dundee Law

3.9 km

Dundee Law: A majestic extinct volcano offering sweeping 360° views, rich history, and tranquil nature atop Dundee’s highest point.

Rose Garden

4.0 km

A serene botanical haven within Dundee’s historic Victoria Park, showcasing vibrant roses and lush greenery for peaceful urban escapes.

Victoria Park

4.1 km

A vibrant Dundee park blending historic charm, active sports, and tranquil green spaces for all ages to enjoy.

Dudhope Park

4.5 km

Historic charm meets vibrant recreation in Dundee’s scenic Dudhope Park, a green refuge with views and play for all ages.

Wedding Events @ Mains Castle Dundee

4.6 km

Historic 16th-century castle in Dundee offering intimate, atmospheric wedding and event spaces with dedicated service and charming grounds.

Essential places to dine

Birkhill Inn

1.4 km

Experience traditional British hospitality at Birkhill Inn, where family-friendly dining meets cozy ambiance in the heart of Dundee.

Kingsway Farm - Dining & Carvery

2.6 km

Classic Dundee pub serving hearty carvery meals daily in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on King's Cross Road.

Gourdie Croft Beefeater

3.5 km

A family-friendly steakhouse in Dundee offering expertly grilled classics, vibrant pub vibes, and a spacious garden for all occasions.

Maze Restaurant

4.1 km

Stylish conservatory dining with serene Italian garden views at Dundee’s Landmark Hotel, serving breakfast to dinner in a relaxed, elegant setting.

The Riverside Inn - Pub & Grill

4.8 km

A friendly riverside pub and grill in Dundee offering classic dishes, quick service, and scenic views along the River Tay.

Beiderbeckes Bistro

4.8 km

Eclectic bistro and gastropub in Dundee serving comfort food with vegan options in a lively jazz-inspired setting.

Más

5.1 km

Authentic Mexican small plates and vibrant vegan options served in a lively Dundee setting with fresh flavors and handcrafted cocktails.

Pacamara Food & Drink

5.1 km

A Dundee favourite for specialty coffee and inventive brunch in a warm, wood-clad West End café.

Don Michele Italian Restaurant

5.1 km

Authentic Italian flavors and warm family hospitality combine at Don Michele, a beloved Dundee dining destination for pizza, pasta, and more.

Piccolo

5.2 km

Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm bistro charm at Piccolo, Dundee’s intimate culinary gem on Perth Road.

The West House

5.3 km

A lively Italian restaurant and bar in Dundee’s Cultural Quarter, celebrated for quality dishes and creative cocktails in a stylish setting.

The Bach

5.3 km

A vibrant New Zealand-inspired bistro in Dundee offering fresh, made-from-scratch dishes in a relaxed and unique setting.

The Barrelman

5.3 km

A vibrant Dundee bar and restaurant blending fresh Scottish flavors, craft cocktails, and live entertainment in a relaxed city centre setting.

Tahini

5.4 km

Experience the vibrant flavors of Lebanon and the Mediterranean in Dundee’s welcoming and lively Lebanese restaurant, Tahini.

Bridgeview Station Restaurant

5.4 km

Converted Victorian station serving contemporary Scottish cuisine with River Tay views and genuine local hospitality.

Discover a treasure trove of second-hand books and music at Dundee’s Oxfam Bookshop, supporting global poverty relief through every purchase.

A lively Dundee pub offering local brews, diverse menus, and vibrant entertainment in a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Afro Beats

5.1 km

Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with pulsating Afrobeats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night energy at Afro Beats nightclub.

Private Eyes

5.2 km

Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with live pole dance shows, VIP lounges, and a lively atmosphere at Private Eyes nightclub.

Club Tropicana & Venga

5.2 km

Step into Dundee’s ultimate 80s nightclub for nostalgic beats, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable retro nights at Club Tropicana & Venga.

AURA Nightclub

5.2 km

Dundee’s vibrant AURA Nightclub pulses with chart hits, themed parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.

Fat Sams

5.2 km

Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife at Fat Sam's, a legendary club blending live music, themed rooms, and nostalgic beats in a lively urban setting.

Pout Bar and Nightclub

5.4 km

Dundee's vibrant gay nightclub offering great music, welcoming vibes, and late-night dancing in the heart of the city.

OUT Nightclub

5.4 km

A lively Dundee nightclub known for quality music, vibrant atmosphere, and a central spot on Seagate’s nightlife strip.

Underground

5.4 km

Dundee’s vibrant nightclub and live music venue where dancing, live bands, and late-night fun come alive every weekend.

Rewind dundee

5.5 km

Experience Dundee’s vibrant retro club nights and live local music at Rewind, a welcoming hub of nostalgia and nightlife energy.

Decades Bar & Nightclub

5.6 km

Step back in time with Decades Bar & Nightclub, Dundee’s vibrant retro hotspot playing the best hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

Royal Night Club

18.6 km

Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.

The Gig

21.7 km

Experience Blairgowrie’s vibrant nightlife at The Gig, a welcoming and affordable nightclub in the heart of this scenic Scottish town.

Club One

26.9 km

Experience Perth’s vibrant nightlife at Club One, a lively nightclub offering late-night and daytime parties in the city center.

Ego Nightclub - Perth

27.2 km

Experience Perth’s vibrant nightlife at Ego Nightclub, where quality music and positive energy unite after dark.

Loft Nightclub

27.2 km

Perth’s energetic nightclub with six bars, late-night dancing, and a lively social scene on South Street.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Clatto Country Park: Dundee’s Tranquil Reservoir Retreat

A brief summary to Clatto Country Park

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Car

Walking

Clatto Country Park location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Clatto Country Park

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Clatto Country Park

A Historic Reservoir at the Heart of Dundee

Natural Woodland and Scenic Trails

Family-Friendly Amenities and Wildlife Encounters

Recreational Activities and Community Use

Accessibility and Visitor Facilities

Seasonal Appeal and Atmosphere

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Balgarthno Stone Circle

Cox's Stack

Dundee War Memorial

DD Tours

Black Watch Memorial

The Sinderins

Dundemo

Robert Burns Statue

Oor Wullie Bronze Statue

Wishart's Arch

The Yard Market Dundee

Meeting House

Dundee Historic Environment Trust

St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall

Metalurgey

Unmissable attractions to see

Camperdown Wildlife Centre

Kingsway West Retail Park

Muirhead Backmuir Community Wood

The Stack Retail Park

Menzieshill Water Tower

Tayside Medical History Museum

Mills Observatory

Trottick Ponds

Balgay Park

Dundee Law

Dundee Law

Rose Garden

Victoria Park

Dudhope Park

Wedding Events @ Mains Castle Dundee

Essential places to dine

Birkhill Inn

Kingsway Farm - Dining & Carvery

Gourdie Croft Beefeater

Maze Restaurant

The Riverside Inn - Pub & Grill

Beiderbeckes Bistro

Más

Pacamara Food & Drink

Don Michele Italian Restaurant

Piccolo

The West House

The Bach

The Barrelman

Tahini

Bridgeview Station Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Range, Dundee

Ninewells Gift Shop

Arklay St Gift Shop

SookSouk

Kist

B&M Store

Room 39

The Works

The Windsor Gallery

West Vintage Dundee

Essentials