River Leven

The River Leven flows for about ten kilometres from Loch Lomond down to the River Clyde in West Dunbartonshire. It passes through the Vale of Leven communities and ends at Dumbarton, where Dumbarton Castle stands at its mouth. The river is short but fast, said to be Scotland’s second fastest after the Spey. Its speed and urban setting have given it a reputation for danger, with many drownings recorded over the years. The Linnbrane Hole near Alexandria is especially feared by local anglers and swimmers. Anglers come to fish for salmon and sea trout making their way upstream to Loch Lomond. The river has nine bridges and two weirs along its course. A shared path for walkers and cyclists runs close beside the water from Balloch to Renton, then less closely to Dumbarton. Two large meanders at Cordale and Dalquhurn shape the landscape on either side of the water. Steamers once used the river to reach Loch Lomond, though bridges often made the journey difficult. Today the river is no longer navigable, and its height changes with the seasons. In winter it can rise well above its summer level, altering the view along its banks.