Scaur Water

Scaur Water rises near Polskeoch in the Scaur hills of Dumfries and Galloway. It flows south from its source near Sanquhar through the Southern Uplands. After thirty kilometres it joins the River Nith two miles southwest of Thornhill. During its short journey the river drops from five hundred metres to fifty-five metres above sea level. Part of its course marks the boundary between Tynron and Keir Parishes. In the river valley, called Scaur Glen, visitors find several sculptures by Andy Goldsworthy. Two hillforts stand on the slopes above the water. Nearby, the Chanlockfoot Site of Special Scientific Interest protects a woodland of ash, sycamore, and wych elm trees. The river itself is used for canoeing and trout fishing, especially at the Glenmarlin Falls near Penpont. Local legend speaks of the ghosts of a horse and rider who drowned in a deep pool at the bottom of the falls. Known as the Black Hole, this stretch of water is avoided by some fishermen after dusk. The valley remains quiet and little changed, with the river’s course guiding walkers along its banks.