Best lakes around Ancrum are influenced by the village's location within a loop of the Ale Water and its proximity to the River Teviot. The Ale Water, a scenic tributary, flows from Henwoodie Hill and passes through Alemoor Loch before joining the River Teviot south of Ancrum. The River Teviot is a significant waterway in the Scottish Borders, recognized for its ecological importance and wildlife. Both rivers offer natural features and recreational opportunities, including walking trails and fishing.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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Popular around Ancrum
Well maintained paths suitable for all, with some detours down to the waterside, plenty of seats to view the loch and the wildlife
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This loch, as you can imagine, is very popular with Selkirk residents for exercise. It's a lovely place to be and the well-maintained path goes all around the loch. The Haining, the country house, found on the bank of the loch, is (at the time of writing this) undergoing restoration.
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Lindean Loch is a beautiful small loch that is now part of a nature reserve. It’s a lovely little spot for a wild swim and is situated next to a small car park.
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A very pretty loch between Faldonside and Upper Faldonside that you can enjoy from the track. This is just off the Borders Abbey Way trail, and you will be able to see Cauldshiels Hill in the distance from here (over the loch, to the south). A wonderful, blue-and-green space - just the way you like them!
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The pond itself is perhaps not that much to look at, but the views from up here of the entire countryside from above (you will see the town of Hawick from up here) are very pleasant indeed.
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The most popular spots include The Haining Country Estate, which features the beautiful Haining Loch, and Faldonside Loch, known for its scenic views. The River Teviot and Ale Water, while rivers, are also significant water features offering natural beauty and recreational opportunities near Ancrum.
Yes, several areas are suitable for families. The Haining Loch Circular Walk offers well-maintained paths around the loch, suitable for all, with detours to the waterside and seating. Faldonside Loch and Lindean Loch are also noted as family-friendly locations.
The River Teviot is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is renowned for its wildlife, including Atlantic salmon, otters, and lamprey. It provides vital breeding grounds for salmon. Lindean Loch is part of a nature reserve, offering opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Yes, the Haining Loch Circular Walk features well-maintained paths that are suitable for all, including those with wheelchairs or strollers. There are also plenty of seats to view the loch and its wildlife.
Yes, Lindean Loch is described as a lovely little spot for a wild swim. It is part of a nature reserve and has a small car park nearby.
You can enjoy walking along the banks of the Ale Water, which offers peaceful landscapes. The River Teviot also has beautiful scenery, characterized by rich farmland and deciduous woodland, making walks along its banks very pleasant. For dedicated hiking routes, explore the options in the Hiking around Ancrum guide, which includes trails like the 'Monteviot Suspension Bridge loop from Ancrum'.
Yes, the River Teviot is well-known for fishing, offering opportunities for Atlantic salmon, sea trout, brown trout, and grayling. The Monteviot beat, near Ancrum, is particularly noted for its salmon, sea trout, trout, and grayling fishing. The Ale Water also provides opportunities for fly fishing.
Ancrum village itself is situated in a loop of the Ale Water, from which its name is believed to derive. Historically, the River Teviot held the Ancrum Old Bridge, dating back to the 1300s, which was considered one of Scotland's most important medieval structures. The Haining Country Estate, featuring Haining Loch, dates back to the 1790s and has a rich history.
While specific cafes directly at the lochs are not detailed, the banks of the Ale Water are accessible from local establishments in Ancrum, such as The Ancrum Cross Keys pub, offering a serene spot to enjoy the gurgling water.
Beyond walking and fishing, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find running trails in the Running Trails around Ancrum guide, including routes like the 'Monteviot Suspension Bridge loop'. For cycling enthusiasts, there are gravel biking options available in the Gravel biking around Ancrum guide.
The Haining Loch Circular Walk offers excellent views of the loch. From Faldonside Loch, you can see Cauldshiels Hill in the distance. Additionally, Ruberslaw Covert Pond, while perhaps not a highlight itself, provides very pleasant views of the entire countryside, including the town of Hawick.


Still not found your perfect lake around Ancrum? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.