The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre, Aberfoyle
Explore Scotland’s Queen Elizabeth Forest Park from The Lodge, where nature, wildlife, and adventure await amid stunning woodland trails and panoramic views.
Nestled within Queen Elizabeth Forest Park near Aberfoyle, The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre is a vibrant gateway to Scotland’s natural beauty. Offering well-marked trails, a wildlife viewing room, a café with panoramic forest views, and family-friendly amenities including a play area and accessible paths, it invites visitors to explore tranquil woodlands, spot rare red squirrels, and enjoy outdoor adventures like Go Ape. Open year-round, it’s ideal for nature lovers and families alike.
A brief summary to The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre
- Duke's Pass, Stirling, Aberfoyle, FK8 3SX, GB
- +443000676615
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy peaceful wildlife spotting, especially red squirrels, before the centre gets busy.
- Rent a bug bag for £2 to enhance your forest exploration with binoculars and identification guides.
- Try the café’s homemade soups and baked goods while taking in panoramic forest views.
- Book electric mobility scooters in advance for easier access to the accessible Waterfall Trail.
- Combine your visit with a Go Ape adventure nearby for an adrenaline-filled forest experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Stirling to The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes via the A821 Duke’s Pass, a scenic route. On-site parking operates a pay-and-display system charging £1 per hour or £5 for a full day. Parking is limited during peak times, so early arrival is recommended.
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Bus
Regular bus services connect Aberfoyle to Stirling, with a journey time of around 45 minutes. From Aberfoyle village, The Lodge is about a 1-mile walk north along the A821. Bus frequency may be limited on weekends and public holidays.
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Cycling
National Cycle Network Route 7 passes through the forest park, making cycling to The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre a scenic option. The terrain includes gentle hills and forest paths suitable for intermediate cyclists. Bike parking is available at the centre.
The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre
A Hub Amidst Scotland’s Queen Elizabeth Forest Park
The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre is situated just north of Aberfoyle, perched on the scenic Duke’s Pass (A821), within the expansive Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. This location offers visitors a serene introduction to the Trossachs region’s lush woodlands and rolling hills. The centre serves as a key starting point for exploring the forest’s diverse landscapes, with easy access to a network of trails ranging from gentle half-mile walks to more challenging four-mile treks. The National Cycle Network Route 7 also passes nearby, making it a favored stop for cyclists.Facilities Designed for Comfort and Exploration
The centre is well-equipped to enhance your visit with a welcoming café boasting panoramic views of the surrounding forest, serving hot drinks, homemade soups, and baked goods. A gift shop offers locally crafted souvenirs and maps. Families will appreciate the outdoor play area designed to mimic the forest environment, while clean restroom facilities and picnic areas provide comfort for longer stays. Accessibility is a priority, with electric mobility scooters available for rent to explore the all-abilities Waterfall Trail that leads to a dramatic waterfall.Wildlife Encounters and Educational Experiences
A highlight of The Lodge is its wildlife viewing room, where visitors can observe ospreys nesting and feeding their young through live footage. The recently added Red Squirrel Hide offers a rare opportunity to see these elusive creatures in their natural habitat. Ranger-led events, including guided walks and seasonal activities, provide educational insights into the forest’s ecology and conservation efforts. Equipment rental such as bug bags with binoculars and identification booklets encourages interactive exploration.Outdoor Adventures and Seasonal Attractions
For thrill-seekers, Go Ape Aberfoyle is located adjacent to the visitor centre, featuring some of the UK’s longest zip lines and treetop obstacle courses with stunning views of the hills and valleys. Seasonal events and workshops are held throughout the year, celebrating the changing forest scenery—from spring bluebells carpeting the woodland floor to the vibrant autumn foliage. The centre is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season, ensuring a welcoming experience in all weather conditions.Planning Your Visit and Accessibility
Parking is available on-site with a pay-and-display system charging £1 per hour or £5 for a full day. The visitor centre is accessible by car and public transport, with bus links connecting Aberfoyle to Stirling and beyond. Dogs are welcome both inside the building and on outdoor trails. The centre’s staff provide expert advice and maps to tailor your visit to your interests and fitness level, making it suitable for solo travelers, families, and groups.A Scenic and Educational Forest Destination
Whether you seek peaceful walks, wildlife spotting, family activities, or adrenaline-pumping adventures, The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre offers a comprehensive forest experience. Its blend of natural beauty, educational resources, and recreational facilities makes it a standout destination within Scotland’s national parks, inviting visitors to connect deeply with the natural world.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Doune Castle
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Duck Bay
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David Stirling Memorial
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Maid of The Loch
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Sweeney's Cruise Co Loch Lomond
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SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium
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Loch Lomond Shores
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Unmissable attractions to see
VisitScotland Aberfoyle iCentre
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The Scottish Wool Centre
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Three Lochs Forest Drive
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Explore the tranquil beauty of Queen Elizabeth Forest Park on the scenic 7-mile Three Lochs Forest Drive, passing three stunning lochs and rich wildlife.
Queen Elizabeth Forest Park
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Inchmahome Priory
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Step onto a secluded island in Scotland’s only lake to explore the atmospheric ruins of a 13th-century Augustinian priory, once a sanctuary for Robert the Bruce and the young Mary Queen of Scots.
Lake Of Menteith
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Scotland’s only natural lake, rich in history, wildlife, and tranquil beauty near Stirling.
Loch Ard
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Discover Loch Ard’s serene waters, historic ruins, and scenic trails in the heart of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
Trossachs Pier
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Loch Venachar
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The Highland Cows
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Callander Drinks Company
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Conic Hill
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Callander Visitor Information Centre
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Callander Kirk
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Macmillan Wine
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Essential places to dine
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Callander Meadows
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Clachan Inn
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Oak Tree Inn
14.5 km
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Colquhoun's Restaurant
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The Village Rest Luss
18.2 km
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The Gargunnock Inn
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Inchmurrin Restaurant
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Slanj Restaurant
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The Clubhouse at Cameron
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Modern European dining with scenic views at Cameron Club & Spa on Loch Lomond, offering fresh, locally inspired dishes and warm hospitality.
Cù Mara Bistro & Takeaway
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Village Inn
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The Cruin
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Experience unparalleled beauty at The Cruin, a stunning wedding venue on Loch Lomond offering exquisite dining and breathtaking views.
Duck Bay Hotel & Restaurant
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Mavi Kitchen & Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Balmaha Village Shop
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Loch Lomond Rocks
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Coach House Coffee Shop and Store
18.0 km
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Luss General Store
18.1 km
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Village Shop
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Discover the Village Shop in Luss: A charming convenience store offering local delights, gifts, and a taste of Scottish hospitality.
Scottish Antiques & Arts Centre
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Caulders Garden Centre Loch Lomond
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Braeside Stores
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The Personalised Drinks Company Ltd
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Auchentullich Farm Shop
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Co-op Food - Balloch
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Loch Lomond Gift House
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Wild Highlands Coffee House
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Leading Labels Ltd
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Balloch House
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The Lobby Bar
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Settle Inn
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Red
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Firewater
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Saint Judes After Dark
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The Savoy
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Buff Club
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Bamboo
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
