Visiting Gladhouse Reservoir

Overview 

Gladhouse Reservoir is a stunning wildlife haven just a short drive from Edinburgh, offering visitors a peaceful rural escape with scenic walking and cycling routes that connect to the surrounding Moorfoot Hills.

Designed by the renowned Victorian civil engineer James Leslie in 1879, Gladhouse Reservoir is the largest body of freshwater in the Lothians. It is an operational site which provides drinking water to approximately 150,000 people in Midlothian and parts of Edinburgh.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Gladhouse is a treasure trove. The reservoir’s islands are home to nesting ospreys, while large flocks of wintering pink-footed geese contribute to its designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural habitat to help preserve this vital ecosystem.

The reservoir also offers trout fishing for experienced boat anglers. To learn more about obtaining a season ticket, click here.

Planning Your Visit 

Getting Here 

By Bike: Gladhouse Reservoir is just a 15-minute cycle from the B6372, which connects to National Cycle Network Route 1. You can plan your journey using the National Cycle Network to find the best route.

By Car: From Edinburgh, head south on the A701, accessible from the Edinburgh City Centre or the City of Edinburgh Bypass. After the Gowkley Moss roundabout, take the left exit onto the B7026, following signs for Auchendinny. Continue for three miles, then turn left onto the B6372, following signs to Gladhouse Reservoir.

Important Traffic Notice: Please note that traffic restrictions have been implemented by Midlothian Council on part of the U80 Gladhouse Road, along the reservoir’s northern shore, from 3rd April 2024 to 1st October 2024. During this period, parking is prohibited in this area. 

We recommend planning your visit in advance and being prepared with alternative parking arrangements, as available parking near the reservoir will be limited. We understand the challenges this may pose, especially during peak times, and we ask all visitors to respect the restrictions and park responsibly.

Public Transport: Unfortunately, there are currently no public transport routes to Gladhouse Reservoir. 
 
Facilities

• Please note that there are no toilets or bins available at Gladhouse Reservoir. We kindly ask that you use the natural surroundings responsibly and take all litter home with you.
• A Ranger Service is available year-round to assist and ensure the preservation of this beautiful area.
• Parking is limited, and there is no designated parking at the reservoir. We encourage all visitors to park responsibly and be mindful of others.
• While there are pathways around the reservoir, many are unpaved and can become muddy after rain. For suggested walking routes, please visit: Walk Highland website.

Safety and Respect

Operations: Please be aware that our reservoirs are active work sites, with ongoing operational activities that may occasionally impact your visit. If any work, such as a path closure, is expected to affect your visit, information will be clearly posted on-site.

Over the next 30 months, Scottish Water have multiple projects to upgrade the site and improve safety. Construction work will be carried out at the site, predominantly on the north shore at the Spillway asset, where we will be carrying out a major rerubishment.

Further details can be found at https://www.scottishwater.co.uk/In-Your-Area/Investments-in-Your-Area/Gladhouse-Reservoir 

Water Safety: Gladhouse Reservoir features an air curtain near the dam, marked by orange buoys. This critical water quality system releases millions of bubbles to aerate the water and disperse potential impurities like algae. However, these bubbles create negative buoyancy, making it difficult to stay afloat if you enter this area—this applies to both swimmers and boats. We strongly advise visitors to steer clear of this and any other operational infrastructure while on the water.

For more information on water safety, click here.

Camping: Wild camping is permitted under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, but it should not take place near residential properties. Fires should be kept small, preferably using a stove, and must not be lit under tree canopies. Remember, wild camping should be lightweight and leave no trace. Please also be mindful that the site is surrounded by farms and livestock. 
 
Respect for Others: Our reservoirs are enjoyed by a diverse range of visitors. Everyone has the right to responsible access in accordance with the Outdoor Access Code, and we ask that all visitors exercise their rights with respect and consideration for others.

Please note that antisocial behaviour has been an issue at this reservoir and will not be tolerated. Police Scotland conducts regular patrols, and any concerns should be reported directly to them.

For more information on the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, click here.

Our Reservoir Rangers

Scottish Water's Reservoir Rangers play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance between public enjoyment and the protection of Scotland's reservoirs. 

As stewards of these vital water sources, the Rangers are tasked with a variety of responsibilities that include patrolling the reservoirs, such as Gladhouse, to ensure safety and environmental preservation. They engage with visitors, offering guidance and assistance, while also promoting responsible behaviour in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. 

Their presence is not only a welcoming sight for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of these areas but also serves as a deterrent to anti-social behaviour, ensuring that the reservoirs remain safe and enjoyable for all.

The Rangers are instrumental in educating the public about the importance of these water bodies, not just as recreational spots but also as sources of drinking water for thousands of people. By fostering a sense of community and stewardship, the Reservoir Rangers help to safeguard Scotland's water resources for future generations.

Keep an eye out for our Rangers (pictured below) and don't forget to say Hi! 

Further Information

We will continue to update this page with the latest information.

Need to get in touch?

You can email us at GladhouseReservoir@scottishwater.co.uk and watercomms@scottishwater.co.uk. You can also follow us on social media to keep up-to-date on our activities:

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Facebook: Scottish Water

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