Glencorse Reservoir, lake in Midlothian, Scotland, UK, outflows to Glencorse Burn
Glencorse Reservoir is a drinking water reservoir in Midlothian, formed by an earth dam that holds back water from the Logan Burn. It sits among the Pentland Hills, with paths running along the water's edge and a pump station visible near the dam.
The reservoir was built in the early 19th century to bring clean water to Edinburgh, with engineers Telford and Rennie working under Jardine's direction. Not long after it opened, the water level was raised to keep up with the city's growing needs.
Glencorse Reservoir sits within the Pentland Hills Regional Park and draws walkers who come for the open countryside rather than the water itself. The paths around it are a regular weekend destination for people from Edinburgh looking to spend time outdoors.
The car park near Flotterstone Inn is the most common starting point for walks around the reservoir. The paths cross open ground, so sturdy footwear is a good idea, especially after rain.
The medieval St. Catherine's Chapel now lies beneath the water, though its remains can sometimes be seen when the water level drops. Old boundary stones around the site mark lines drawn long before the dam was ever built.
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