The Common

Downs, Moorland in Midlothian

Scotland

The Common

The Pond at Red Moss Nature Reserve The Red Moss of Balerno is an SSSI, managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. It is an excellent example of a raised bog, and can be visited along a boardwalk. — The Pond at Red Moss Nature Reserve Credit: Oliver Dixon

The Common, located in Midlothian, is a vast expanse of land that encompasses both downs and moorland. Stretching across an area of considerable size, it offers a diverse range of natural features and habitats. The downs section of The Common is characterized by gently rolling hills, covered in lush grasslands and scattered with patches of low-lying shrubs. This terrain provides an ideal environment for various plant species to thrive, creating a picturesque landscape.

In contrast, the moorland area of The Common showcases a different aspect of the natural world. Here, the terrain becomes more rugged and uneven, with heather dominating the landscape. The moorland is also home to several species of birds, including grouse and curlew, which find shelter amongst the heather and forage for food in the surrounding grassy areas.

Visitors to The Common can enjoy a multitude of activities. The Downs are perfect for leisurely walks and picnics, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The moorland, on the other hand, attracts hikers and nature enthusiasts who relish the opportunity to explore the more rugged terrain and observe the diverse wildlife.

The Common, Midlothian, is not only a haven for nature lovers but also an important ecological site. Its diverse range of habitats supports a variety of plant and animal species, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region. Whether one seeks tranquility, adventure, or a deeper understanding of the natural world, The Common provides an ideal destination.

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The Common Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.860667/-3.3378983 or Grid Reference NT1663. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The Pond at Red Moss Nature Reserve

The Red Moss of Balerno is an SSSI, managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. It is an excellent example of a raised bog, and can be visited along a boardwalk.

Oliver Dixon

The boardwalk at Red Moss Nature Reserve

The Red Moss of Balerno is an SSSI, managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. It is an excellent example of a raised bog, and can be visited along a boardwalk. Black Hill NT1863 in the Pentlands dominates the skyline.

Oliver Dixon

Boats at Threipmuir Reservoir

Boats on the shore of Threipmuir Reservoir below the fishing hut. The level of water in the Reservoir is very low. Easter Bavelaw Farm can be seen on the far side of the Reservoir. Hare Hill NT1761 lies beyond the Farm, with East Kip NT1860 and West Kip NT1760 on the skyline.

Oliver Dixon

Threipmuir Farm

Youth Vision secured a long lease on Threipmuir Farm Steading in 2009 and applied to the Heritage Lottery for funds to stop it from falling down. They are in the process of replacing the roof, in the course of which youth groups are learning about the archaeology and history of the building and surrounding land. Black Hill NT1863 dominates the skyline beyond.

Oliver Dixon

Spillway at Threipmuir Reservoir

The spillway carries surplus water from Threipmuir Reservoir down into Harlaw Reservoir, as part of a system to control flows in the Water of Leith. The level of water in the reservoir at the time of the photograph was a long way below that required to bring the spillway into operation. Black Hill NT1863 beyond.

Oliver Dixon

Pine trees beside Harlaw Reservoir

Black Hill NT1863 beyond.

Oliver Dixon

Path beside Harlaw Reservoir

Showing the north-west corner of Harlaw Reservoir, a popular spot for anglers. The path round the Reservoir is frequented by walkers and cyclists. Black Hill NT1863 beyond.

Oliver Dixon

The Red Road

Crossing the west flank of Hare Hill. Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth just visible in the distance.

Gordon Brown

The Red Road

The trees of Bavelaw in the distance.

Gordon Brown

Bavelaw Marsh from above Redford Bridge

Gordon Brown

Path through Redford Wood

Gordon Brown

Shed by Threipmuir Reservoir

Threipmuir Reservoir was completed in 1848 as a water supply for Edinburgh. Nowadays Threipmuir, along with the smaller Harlaw reservoir, provides essential upstream flood storage to prevent flooding of the Water of Leith, but is no longer used for water supply.

Gordon Brown

Spillway and bridge between Threipmuir and Harlaw Reservoirs

These two reservoirs were completed in the mid-19th century as a water supply for Edinburgh. Nowadays they provides essential upstream flood storage to prevent flooding of the Water of Leith, but are no longer used for water supply.

Gordon Brown

Horseshoe Weir and Fish Pass, Threipmuir Reservoir

Built as part of the Water of Leith Flood Prevention project.

Graeme Yuill

Fields Above Threipmuir Reservoir

Grassy fields and reservoir at the foot of the Pentland Hills.

Colin Smith

Exponential Hill

The driveway to Bavelaw Castle has a certain reputation. Gentle to start with, but getting steeper and steeper as you progress up the dead straight beech lined road. Plenty of rewards when you get to the top. I was walking today, and so were they by the top of the hill.

Richard Webb

Pentland Push Hub

Big sponsored walk for St Columba's Hospice, Edinburgh, it was held the previous day. This is the event HQ behind Bavelaw Castle, it was being dismantled.

Richard Webb