Top 13 Lakes around Howgate

The most popular spots include Glencorse Reservoir, known for its picturesque setting and historical significance, Threipmuir Reservoir, a favorite for open water swimming and gravel paths, and Loganlea Reservoir, a popular fishing spot nestled within the Pentland Hills.

The area around Howgate is characterized by the rolling Pentland Hills, woodlands, and the man-made reservoirs themselves. You'll find scenic viewpoints, tranquil waters, and diverse vegetation. For example, Torduff Reservoir is described as feeling like a 'secret of nature' with its surrounding vegetation and rocky outcrops.

Yes, the reservoirs offer excellent opportunities for both walking and cycling. Threipmuir Reservoir has easy gravel paths popular with walkers and cyclists. The area around Gladhouse Reservoir also features peaceful back-lane roads perfect for cycling and hiking. You can find more detailed routes for hiking and gravel biking in the region.

Open water swimming is popular at Threipmuir Reservoir, which even has a small beach for access. However, caution is advised at other reservoirs like Torduff Reservoir, where the water is deep and cold with limited entry/exit points, making it suitable only for the most experienced swimmers.

Yes, Loganlea Reservoir is a popular fishing spot, particularly for fly fishing trout from either the bank or a boat. It's well-regarded within the Pentland Hills for this activity.

Beyond walking, cycling, and swimming, the area offers a range of outdoor pursuits. You can explore various hiking trails, including moderate mountain hikes in the Pentland Hills. For more specific routes, check out the guides for Hiking around Howgate, Gravel biking around Howgate, and Mountain Hikes around Howgate.

Many of the reservoirs, such as Glencorse Reservoir, Torduff Reservoir, and Threipmuir Reservoir, are considered family-friendly. They offer easy access, scenic views, and paths suitable for leisurely strolls, making them great for outings with children.

The lakes are beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and swimming. Autumn brings stunning foliage to the surrounding hills. Even in winter, the tranquil scenery can be very appealing, though paths might be muddy or icy.

The reservoirs in the Pentland Hills, including Glencorse Reservoir (built 1820-1824) and Loganlea Reservoir (completed 1851), were historically built to supply water to mills and provide drinking water to Edinburgh. They are significant examples of 19th-century engineering that shaped the region's development.

Glencorse Reservoir is incredibly picturesque, nestled amongst the Pentland Hills. Torduff Reservoir offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills, and Loganlea Reservoir is well-positioned for stunning vistas of the Pentlands from its banks. The scenic road section around Gladhouse Reservoir is also a delight for the eyes.

Yes, many of the reservoirs offer easy walking options. Threipmuir Reservoir features easy gravel paths suitable for various fitness levels. Similarly, the area around Torduff Reservoir is described as accessible for any fitness level, making it ideal for a relaxed stroll.

Visitors appreciate the tranquil atmosphere, the stunning views of the Pentland Hills, and the variety of outdoor activities available. The community has shared over 40 photos and given more than 400 upvotes to these spots, highlighting their natural beauty and appeal for walking, cycling, and even open water swimming.