Gladhouse Reservoir

Gladhouse Reservoir lies five miles south of Penicuik in Midlothian, at the foot of the Moorfoot Hills. It covers 186 hectares and sits 270 metres above sea level, making it the largest freshwater area in the Lothians. The reservoir was created in 1879 by engineer James Leslie to supply Edinburgh with drinking water. Two small islands sit in its shallow waters, the largest being Osprey Island. Pink sandstone was used to build the dam, which was designed to hold up to 1700 million gallons. The reservoir increased Edinburgh’s available water supply by 180 litres per person. It is the most southerly reservoir in Midlothian and the oldest in the River South Esk catchment. Osprey Island, formed when the reservoir was created, is covered in thick Scots pine and broadleaf trees. The island has become a haven for wildlife, including nesting ospreys and wintering pink-footed geese. Trout swim in the surrounding water, while the vegetation supports a variety of other species. Visitors can walk around the reservoir’s edge and enjoy views of the Moorfoot Hills. The water is stocked with brown trout, making it a popular fishing spot. The reservoir is an important roosting site for wintering pink-footed geese and supports breeding populations of mallard, teal, wigeon and other waterfowl. Great crested grebes and little grebes have also been seen here. The site has been designated a Ramsar wetland of international importance.