Best lakes around Reston And Auchencrow are found within the Scottish Borders, a region characterized by its diverse natural landscape. Reston is situated on the western bank of the Eye Water, while Auchencrow is a nearby village by the Lammermuir hills. While the area features numerous natural water bodies, often referred to as lochs, specific named lakes directly adjacent to these villages are not prominent. The wider Scottish Borders region offers various natural water features for exploration.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
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A very easy walk, mix of road, forest paths and less defined paths. Can't really see much of the lake due to the forest, but it's still quite a pleasant walk. Some views of Duns Castle.
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Just an absolutely amazing and stunning place to be !!!
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Brilliant little Loch - a little hard to get close to the water.
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The tourist walk through the city is called the "Smuggler's Trail" and leads to the most important places in the city. Everyone can make up their own mind about it. Eyemouth - All smugglers? Eyemouth became important, at least for Scotland, when Berwick-upon-Tweed fell to the English in the 15th century. There was a lot of fighting in this border region, then at some point the borders were as they are and Eyemouth became Scotland's southernmost port, market place and church district. In 1695, 304 people lived here, not including the poor, it is noted in the local museum, they were not counted. Witches were also burned here, of both sexes, two dozen men, women and unfortunately also children. Fishing wasn't really popular here at the beginning. The harbor was inadequately protected from northern storms and was not safe. In the first half of the 19th century the port was expanded and formed the basis for the subsequent rapid development of the fishing industry. At the 14th. In October 1881, a catastrophe occurred that is encountered here again and again. Eyemouth's fleet had sailed to the fishing grounds in bright sunshine, but without warning - there were no good forecasts in those days - a violent storm broke out and few made it back to safety. 129 Eyemouth fishermen died. Many died within sight of their families, a sculpture on the beach clearly shows this. About 30 years earlier, more than 100 people died of cholera here in six weeks. What did people here have to go through back then? But what about the smugglers? Eyemouth was popular as a focal point for them. Roughly close to Norway and mainland Europe, a coast with many hideouts and narrow streets in the city that you could duck into.
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Great little place to visit and walk along, hard to get to the water though.
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A long thin loch managed by the National Trust for Scotland as part of the St Abb's Head estate. The loch is formed in the fault line between the hard igneous rock at St Abb's Head and the softer sedimentary rock inland. It was a marshy area, but a small dam created around 1900 held the water back and created the loch. Now it's an important inland bird sanctuary.
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The area around Reston and Auchencrow in the Scottish Borders is characterized by natural freshwater bodies often referred to as 'lochs,' rather than the 'lakes' found in other regions. You'll also find significant coastal viewpoints and an active fishing harbour. These features are crucial for stormwater management, offer scenic beauty, and provide habitats for wildlife.
For nature observation, Mire Loch is an excellent choice. This long, thin loch is managed by the National Trust for Scotland as part of the St Abb's Head estate and serves as an important inland bird sanctuary. Another must-see is View of Broadhaven Bay, which offers impressive coastal stratigraphy and is a great spot for watching guillemots and other seabirds.
The most prominent historical site related to the water is Eyemouth Harbour. This active fishing harbour has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. It was once a smuggling hotspot and played a significant role as Scotland's southernmost port. Today, it offers various food, drink, and accommodation options, and you can explore its past via the 'Smuggler's Trail'.
Yes, several spots are family-friendly. View of Broadhaven Bay is suitable for families, offering stunning coastal views and birdwatching opportunities. Eyemouth Harbour is also family-friendly, with its historical appeal and amenities. Additionally, Hen Poo Lake, located by Duns Castle, offers a very easy walk suitable for families, though views of the lake itself can be limited by the surrounding forest.
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes, such as the St. Abb's Head Trail, or explore running trails like the St Abb's Head Viewpoint loop. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes that offer views of the North Sea Coast and the Lammermuir Hills. You can find more details on these activities in the easy hikes guide, running trails guide, and road cycling routes guide for Reston and Auchencrow.
Yes, there are walking opportunities. While Mire Loch is not directly accessible, it is beautifully situated for observation. Hen Poo Lake offers an easy walk with a mix of road, forest, and less defined paths. For more structured walks, you can explore various hiking and running trails in the wider area, including circular routes like the St Abb's Head Viewpoint loop from St Abbs.
Visitors particularly enjoy the impressive coastal views, the opportunities for birdwatching, and the historical charm of places like Eyemouth Harbour. The scenic beauty of the lochs and the dramatic coastal stratigraphy at viewpoints like Broadhaven Bay are also highly appreciated. The komoot community has contributed 29 photos and 30 upvotes, highlighting the area's visual appeal.
Yes, Eyemouth Harbour is a great place to find amenities. As an active fishing town, it offers plenty of places for food and drink, as well as accommodation options.
While the Scottish Borders region offers many natural water features, specific information about designated wild swimming spots in the immediate vicinity of Reston and Auchencrow's lochs is not readily available. Always exercise caution and research local regulations and safety conditions before attempting wild swimming in any natural body of water.
The best time to visit for outdoor activities generally depends on personal preference and weather conditions. Spring and summer typically offer milder weather, which is ideal for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. However, the coastal areas can be enjoyed year-round, with dramatic scenery even in cooler months. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.
While not entirely 'hidden,' Mire Loch, nestled within the St Abb's Head estate, offers a serene and important inland bird sanctuary that might be less frequented than the more prominent coastal viewpoints. Its unique formation in a fault line and its role as a wildlife haven make it a special spot for those seeking a quieter natural experience.


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