Eddleston Water

Eddleston Water is a small river in the Scottish Borders, rising near Mount Lothian and flowing north of Peebles to join the River Tweed. Locally it is called ‘The Cuddy’, and the land around it is mostly farmland and woodland. The river passes through villages such as Eddleston and Milkieston, where the A703 runs alongside for part of its course. Two old bridges cross the water: the Tree Bridge on a former drove road and the Cuddy Bridge near Brown Brothers whisky bond. The Cuddy Bridge itself dates only from 1857, replacing a 15th-century structure. The river’s straight course was altered in the 19th century when the Edinburgh–Peebles railway was built, speeding up the flow and increasing flood risk. After serious floods in 2009, Dundee University studied ways to restore the river’s natural curves and slow the water. Natural flood management now uses leaky dams of logs and new bends to hold back water and improve wildlife habitats. These measures have reduced flooding downstream and increased bird and fish numbers along the banks. Visitors walk beside the river through quiet countryside and village streets. The Tree Bridge offers a shady crossing over a stretch lined with alders and willows. Near Milkieston the water widens into slower pools where dippers and grey wagtails feed. The Cuddy Bridge stands close to Peebles, where the river joins the Tweed. From its parapet you can watch herons wading in the shallows and spot otters at dusk.