River Esk

The River Esk rises in the hills east of Moffat in Dumfries and Galloway, then crosses into Cumbria. Its two main tributaries, the Black Esk and the White Esk, join at Castle O’er Forest. The river flows south-east through Eskdale past Langholm, where it is crossed by the Duchess Bridge, Scotland’s oldest iron bridge. The Esk marks part of the old border between Scotland and England. Near Longtown it meets the River Lyne before reaching the Solway Firth. The river once formed part of the boundary of the Debatable Lands, marked by the Scots’ Dike. Its tributaries include the Ewes Water, followed by the A7 road and an electricity line, and the Meggat Water, which joins the main river after flowing from Craik Forest. Visitors can follow the river’s course through Eskdale’s quiet valleys and wooded hills. The Duchess Bridge near Langholm offers a striking view of the water below. Castle O’er Forest, where the two main tributaries meet, lies in a peaceful stretch of countryside. The Solway Firth at the river’s mouth provides wide views over the tidal flats. The Esk’s tributaries lead walkers through forests and along upland burns.