Top 6 Lakes around Mid Calder

Visitors frequently enjoy Threipmuir Reservoir for its easy gravel paths and open water swimming spots. Other popular choices include Harperrig Reservoir, known for its wildlife, and Beecraigs Loch, a popular fishing and walking destination.

Yes, several spots are great for families. Threipmuir Reservoir offers easy gravel paths suitable for walks. Almondell & Calderwood Country Park, with the River Almond flowing through it, is also very family-friendly, offering picnic areas and opportunities for paddling and swimming in the river during summer.

The lakes and surrounding areas offer a variety of activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and fishing at places like Glencorse Reservoir and Threipmuir Reservoir. Almondell & Calderwood Country Park provides woodland and riverside walks, cycling paths, and even kayaking on the River Almond. For more specific routes, explore the hiking and cycling guides around Mid Calder.

For easy walks, Threipmuir Reservoir features easy gravel paths. Glencorse Reservoir also has easy walking paths, offering scenic variety from woodlands to streams. The path around Beecraigs Loch is a nice short walk, mostly under tree cover. You can find more options in the easy hikes guide for Mid Calder.

The region's water bodies are rich in nature. Glencorse Reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) with diverse wildlife and various bird species. Threipmuir Reservoir is known for its birdlife and the rare moss Ptychostomum cyclophyllum. Duddingston Loch is a bird sanctuary with a large heronry, and you might spot otters and water voles. Harperrig Reservoir is also populated by otters and wetland birds.

Yes, Glencorse Reservoir, built in the 1820s, can reveal the ruins of the 13th-century St Catherine's Chapel during periods of very low water. Near Duddingston Loch, you can find the historic Duddingston Kirk, dating back to the 12th century, and Dr Neil's Garden, a tranquil sanctuary.

The lakes are beautiful year-round. Late summer is particularly stunning when the heather on the Pentland Hills, near Threipmuir and Glencorse Reservoirs, turns vibrant pink and purple. Spring offers lush green landscapes and the chance to see newborn lambs. Summer is ideal for enjoying the River Almond in Almondell & Calderwood Country Park, when wildflower meadows are in full bloom.

Yes, Threipmuir Reservoir is a popular spot for open water swimming, with a small beach for access. A section of the River Almond within Almondell & Calderwood Country Park is also popular for swimming and paddling, and an application has been made for it to become officially designated bathing waters.

Visitors appreciate the scenic beauty, the variety of outdoor activities, and the peaceful escape these locations offer. Many enjoy the easy walking paths, opportunities for birdwatching, and the chance to connect with nature. The community has shared over 100 upvotes and 8 photos, highlighting the appeal of these water bodies.

While specific rules vary by location, generally, dogs are welcome on trails around the reservoirs and lochs. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife, such as Duddingston Loch, which is a bird sanctuary. Always check local signage for specific requirements.

Public transport options vary for each location. Almondell & Calderwood Country Park is accessible by public transport. For other reservoirs like Glencorse and Threipmuir, while they are in the broader Lothian region, direct public transport might be limited, often requiring a combination of bus and walking or personal vehicle access. It's advisable to check local bus routes for specific destinations.

While some of the more remote reservoirs like Threipmuir and Glencorse are primarily natural escapes without immediate facilities, areas like Duddingston Loch are adjacent to Duddingston village, which may offer options. Almondell & Calderwood Country Park has a visitor center, and nearby towns will have cafes and pubs. It's best to plan ahead for refreshments.