Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Lakes
United Kingdom
Scotland
Lothian

Roslin / Bilston

Top 15 Lakes around Roslin / Bilston

Best lakes around Roslin / Bilston are primarily characterized by scenic reservoirs and the River North Esk, nestled within the picturesque Pentland Hills. This area offers significant recreational value through its diverse bodies of water and natural landscapes. Visitors can explore a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and industrial archaeology. The region provides opportunities for walking, cycling, fishing, and wild swimming.

Best lakes around Roslin / Bilston

  • The most popular lakes is Glencorse Reservoir, a lake nestled within…

Last updated: May 4, 2026

Glencorse Reservoir

Highlight • Lake

Nestled amongst the Pentland Hills, Glencorse Reservoir is incredibly picturesque. It was built between 1820 and 1824 to provide water to mills in the area and supply drinking water to …

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

Incredibly great views over Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Dunsapie Loch

Highlight • Natural

The Dunsapie Loch invites you to linger.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Torduff Reservoir

Highlight • Lake

Torduff Reservoir is a relatively small reservoir at 23 acres (9.4 hectares) just southwest of Bonaly. It sits neatly below the western flank of Torduff Hill. Nearby to the southwest …

Tip by

Save

Threipmuir Reservoir

Highlight • Natural

Superb spot at the foot of the Pentlands, easy gravel paths and lots of swimming spots. Busy with walkers and cyclists.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Roslin / Bilston.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Roslin / Bilston

Hiking around Roslin / Bilston

Cycling around Roslin / Bilston

Gravel biking around Roslin / Bilston

MTB Trails around Roslin / Bilston

Running Trails around Roslin / Bilston

Road Cycling Routes around Roslin / Bilston

Tips from the Community

Jamie
August 30, 2025, Torduff Reservoir

Pretty way in or out of balermo

0

0

Stunning views. Path gets very gravelly so care needed if you are less experienced off-road

0

0

Matt Charnley
November 6, 2024, Dunsapie Loch

A little gem within Holyrood Park that’s perfect for a quick, scenic escape - often full with swans, geese and ducks

0

0

Often busy with dog-walkers at peak times

0

0

Torduff Reservoir is a relatively small reservoir at 23 acres (9.4 hectares) just southwest of Bonaly. It sits neatly below the western flank of Torduff Hill. Nearby to the southwest is also Clubbiedean Reservoir. There is a good series of bike routes in this area that can take in both Torduff and Clubbiedean Reservoir to make use of the beautiful views of the surrounding Pentland Hills.

1

0

Amy
August 29, 2024, Glencorse Reservoir

Nestled amongst the Pentland Hills, Glencorse Reservoir is incredibly picturesque. It was built between 1820 and 1824 to provide water to mills in the area and supply drinking water to Edinburgh. Today, the reservoir still supplies water to 450,000 people. The reservoir was created by constructing a dam, which is 77 feet (23.5 m) at its highest point.

2

0

Simply beautiful nature

Translated by Google

1

1

Beautiful view of the surroundings

Translated by Google

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes in Roslin / Bilston?

The area is characterized by scenic reservoirs nestled within the picturesque Pentland Hills, such as Glencorse Reservoir and Threipmuir Reservoir. You'll also find the dramatic Roslin Glen, where the River North Esk carves a deep valley through ancient woodlands, offering diverse landscapes.

Are there opportunities for wild swimming in the lakes around Roslin / Bilston?

Yes, Threipmuir Reservoir is a popular spot for wild swimming, featuring easy access points and a small beach. While wild swimming is also practiced at Glencorse Reservoir, caution is advised due to cold water, hidden structures, and the need to avoid disturbing anglers.

What kind of wildlife can be observed in the Roslin / Bilston area?

Roslin Glen, with its ancient woodlands along the River North Esk, is a haven for diverse wildlife. Visitors might spot woodpeckers, roe deer, badgers, and herons. The reservoirs also attract various bird species.

When is the best time to visit the lakes and glens in Roslin / Bilston?

The walks in Roslin Glen can be enjoyed year-round, with wildflowers in warmer months and colorful foliage in autumn. The reservoirs are accessible throughout the year, with fishing opportunities typically from March to October.

What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Roslin / Bilston?

The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy mountain hikes, cycling, and running. For specific routes, explore the Mountain Hikes around Roslin / Bilston, Cycling around Roslin / Bilston, and Running Trails around Roslin / Bilston guides.

Are there family-friendly walking routes around the lakes?

Yes, many areas are suitable for families. Threipmuir Reservoir offers easy gravel paths, and Roslin Glen provides atmospheric walks through natural beauty and historical sites that can be enjoyed by families.

Can I go fishing in any of the reservoirs?

Yes, Glencorse Reservoir is stocked with rainbow, blue, and brown trout, offering boat fishing opportunities from March to October. Torduff Reservoir and Clubbiedean Reservoir are also utilized as fisheries.

Are there any historical sites or points of interest near the lakes?

Roslin Glen is rich in history, featuring ruins of Scotland's largest gunpowder mills and a carpet factory. It's intimately connected to historical sites like Rosslyn Chapel and Rosslyn Castle, which overlook the River North Esk. You can also find landmarks such as Wallace's Cave.

Are the trails around the lakes accessible for all fitness levels?

Many trails, particularly around Threipmuir Reservoir, feature easy gravel paths suitable for various fitness levels. Roslin Glen offers a mix of paths, from easy strolls to more dramatic terrain.

Are the lakes and trails dog-friendly?

Generally, the natural areas and trails around the reservoirs and Roslin Glen are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially near wildlife or livestock, and to check for any specific local restrictions.

How can I get to Roslin Glen using public transport?

Roslin Glen is accessible by public transport. You can check local bus services that connect to Roslin village, from where the glen is within walking distance. For more detailed information on public transport options, you might consult local transport authority websites.

Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?

The villages of Roslin and Bilston, as well as nearby Edinburgh, offer various options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation. Roslin village, in particular, has facilities convenient for visitors to Roslin Glen and the nearby reservoirs.

Where can I find parking near the reservoirs?

Parking is available at various access points around the reservoirs and Roslin Glen. For instance, there are parking areas near the Pentland Hills Regional Park entrances that provide access to Glencorse, Threipmuir, and Torduff Reservoirs. Specific parking details can often be found on local council or park websites.

What makes Roslin Glen unique compared to the reservoirs?

While the reservoirs are man-made bodies of water primarily for water supply and recreation, Roslin Glen is a natural river valley carved by the River North Esk. It stands out for its ancient woodlands, dramatic scenery, and rich historical and industrial archaeology, offering a blend of nature and heritage distinct from the open reservoir landscapes.

Most popular routes around Roslin / Bilston

Hiking around Roslin / Bilston

Most popular attractions around Roslin / Bilston

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found your perfect lake around Roslin / Bilston? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

Rosewell And DistrictDamheadPoltonhall And DistrictLoanhead And DistrictEdinburghKirknewtonEast Calder And DistrictBonnyrigg / LasswadeMusselburgh And InvereskDanderhall And DistrictEskbank / NewbattleDalkeith And DistrictPumpherstonNewtonWallyfordWhitecraigTynewaterBroxburnLadywellKnightsridgeUphall StationCraigshillMid CalderMayfield / EasthousesWest Calder And Harburn

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Loanhead And District

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy