Gala Water

Gala Water flows through a narrow valley surrounded by rounded hills, stretching 21 miles from the Moorfoot Hills to its junction with the River Tweed.

The river valley contains multiple ruined castles and towers from earlier periods, indicating the strategic importance of this waterway through Scottish history.

The name derives from possible Welsh or Gaelic origins, with theories suggesting meanings of 'rough' or 'full stream' in these ancient languages.

The water level at Galashiels varies between 0.19 meters and 1.38 meters, with monitoring systems providing real-time data for flood prevention.

Local textile mills in Galashiels occasionally redirect nearly the entire water flow during summer months for industrial purposes.

Location: Scottish Borders

GPS coordinates: 55.69787,-2.87859

Latest update: October 29, 2025 18:35