Top 8 Lakes around Eddleston And District
Best lakes around Eddleston And District are nestled within the Scottish Borders, featuring a variety of picturesque lochs and reservoirs. This region is characterized by its natural beauty, including the Pentland Hills and Moorfoot Hills. Many of these water bodies were historically constructed to supply water to local mills and Edinburgh, a function some continue to serve today. The area offers diverse landscapes for outdoor activities and tranquil natural settings.
Best lakes around Eddleston And District
- The most popular lakes is Glencorse Reservoir, a lake nestled amongst the Pentland Hills. It was built between 1820 and 1824 to provide water to mills and supply drinking water to Edinburgh, a function it still serves for approximately 450,000 people.
- Another must-see spot is Loganlea Reservoir, a lake completed in 1851. It is a popular fishing spot, particularly for fly fishing trout from either the bank or a boat.
- Visitors also love Gladhouse Reservoir Scenic Road Section, a trail offering great hiking and cycling opportunities. This peaceful wildlife haven is just a short drive from Edinburgh and west of the Moorfoot Hills.
- Eddleston And District is known for its reservoirs, fishing spots, and wildlife havens. Visitors can explore a variety of lakes offering different recreational opportunities.
- The lakes around Eddleston And District are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 400 upvotes and over 40 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Glencorse Reservoir
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Loganlea Reservoir
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Gladhouse Reservoir Scenic Road Section
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Glencorse Reservoir Lakeside Road
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Running the access road around the northern shore is pretty and allows a few miles of easy underfoot terrain while running in the Pentland Hills.
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North Esk Reservoir
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Tips from the Community
Absolutely gorgeous reservoir, great to cycle by, or to stop and enjoy your ride-food while looking at the water.
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Stunning views. Path gets very gravelly so care needed if you are less experienced off-road
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Gladhouse Reservoir is just a short drive from Edinburgh and just to the west of the Moorfoot Hills. This peaceful wildlife haven offers visitors great hiking and cycling opportunities. This back-lane road section is no exception. This is a good connecting section between the Gladhouse Plantation on the west side of the reservoir and Rosebery Reservoir a few miles to the north. The road goes past the northern wooded shores of Gladhouse Reservoir, around the bottom of the dam, where just after you turn left or north for Rosebery Reservoir. It is a scenic, tranquil section that is a delight for the eyes and soul.
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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.
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Loganlea Reservoir was completed in 1851. It is fed by the logan Burn and the water then flows into the larger Glencorse Reservoir. It's one of a series of reservoirs in the Pentland Hills built in the 1800s to provide water for the growing city of Edinburgh. Loganlea reservoir is well positioned within the Pentlands, you can only see the hills from its banks.
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The Glencorse Reservoir is held back by an earth dam built in the early 1820's. The water was used to power the mills downstream and provide drinking water to Edinburgh and the surrounding area.
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The Glencorse Reservoir is held back by an earth dam built in the early 1820's. The water was used to power the mills downstream and provide drinking water to Edinburgh and the surrounding area. Running the access road around the northern shore is pretty and allows a few miles of easy underfoot terrain while running in the Pentland Hills.
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Tarmac road all the way up to the reservoir. Brilliant descent but a tough climb! Lots of people fishing the top reservoir usually!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most picturesque lakes to visit in Eddleston And District?
The region boasts several picturesque lakes. Glencorse Reservoir, nestled within the Pentland Hills, is renowned for its scenic beauty. Another charming spot is Baddinsgill Reservoir, located in a picturesque valley along Thieves' Road, perfect for a peaceful picnic.
Are there any lakes suitable for fishing in the area?
Yes, Loganlea Reservoir is a popular fishing spot, particularly for fly fishing trout from either the bank or a boat. It was completed in 1851 and is well-regarded by anglers.
Which lakes offer good opportunities for hiking and cycling?
Gladhouse Reservoir Scenic Road Section provides excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling. It's a peaceful wildlife haven west of the Moorfoot Hills. Additionally, Portmore Reservoir, though not a highlight in this guide, offers intermediate paths and popular loops for hikers.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
Gladhouse Reservoir is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a haven for wildlife. Its islands serve as nesting sites for ospreys, and large flocks of wintering pink-footed geese can be observed, making it ideal for birdwatching.
Are there family-friendly lakes or trails in Eddleston And District?
Many of the lakes in the region are considered family-friendly. Glencorse Reservoir, Loganlea Reservoir, and Baddinsgill Reservoir are all suitable for families. The Glencorse Reservoir Lakeside Road offers easy, smooth terrain for walks.
What is the historical significance of the reservoirs in this area?
Many reservoirs in Eddleston And District have a rich history. Glencorse Reservoir, built between 1820 and 1824, originally supplied water to local mills and continues to provide drinking water to Edinburgh. Loganlea Reservoir was completed in 1851, and Gladhouse Reservoir was designed in 1879 by Victorian civil engineer James Leslie, also serving as a vital water source.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides walking?
Beyond walking, the area around Eddleston And District offers various cycling opportunities. You can explore numerous routes for road cycling, gravel biking, and general cycling, with guides available for different difficulty levels.
Are there any easy walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, the Glencorse Reservoir Lakeside Road offers a few miles of easy, smooth underfoot terrain, making it a pleasant option for a relaxed walk or run. Many of the reservoir paths are generally accessible for easy strolls.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Eddleston And District?
Visitors frequently praise the tranquil natural settings and the picturesque views. Many enjoy the opportunity to relax, have a picnic, or simply take in the beautiful Scottish scenery, especially around spots like Baddinsgill Reservoir and Glencorse Reservoir.
What are the terrain and difficulty levels like for trails around the lakes?
The terrain varies, from smooth, rolling roads like the Glencorse Reservoir Lakeside Road, which offers easy walking, to intermediate paths with some steep sections around Portmore Reservoir. Most lake-side trails are generally accessible, but some routes into the surrounding Pentland Hills can be more challenging.
Is there a specific time of year that is best to visit the lakes?
While the lakes offer beauty year-round, spring and autumn are particularly popular for their mild weather and vibrant natural colors. Birdwatchers might prefer winter for observing large flocks of pink-footed geese at Gladhouse Reservoir.
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