Halkerston Glen

Valley in Midlothian

Scotland

Halkerston Glen

A7 towards Gorebridge Credit: Steven Brown

Halkerston Glen is a picturesque valley located in Midlothian, Scotland. Nestled between the towns of Pathhead and Cousland, the glen is known for its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings.

The glen is named after the Halkerston Burn, a small river that runs through the valley, creating a series of cascades and waterfalls along its course. The river is surrounded by lush, green vegetation, including a variety of native trees such as oak, ash, and birch, which add to the area's scenic charm.

Visitors to Halkerston Glen can explore its network of walking trails that wind through the valley, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for all levels of hikers, making it a popular destination for both casual strollers and avid outdoor enthusiasts.

Wildlife is abundant in the glen, with many species of birds, mammals, and insects calling it home. Lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of elusive creatures such as red squirrels, foxes, and even deer.

In addition to its natural attractions, Halkerston Glen also has historical significance. The remains of an ancient Roman road can be found in the vicinity, adding to the area's cultural heritage.

Overall, Halkerston Glen is a hidden gem in Midlothian, offering visitors a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature. Whether it's for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the outdoors, this valley is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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Halkerston Glen Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.809165/-3.0432072 or Grid Reference NT3457. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

A7 towards Gorebridge

Steven Brown

Danger! Bulls Keep Out

No evidence that they were there, but I kept to my side of the gate.

M J Richardson

Hilly pasture at Outerston

Reputedly with bulls in it.

M J Richardson

Temple Quarry Conveyor

It looks as if it is relatively recent and serviceable; it shows on Google Earth imagery dated 2006. From the 1:25000 map it looks as if it carries material from Temple Quarry to Middleton, a distance of over 3km, although not as the crow flies. This is at a point where it changes direction by 90 deg. by the side of the road east of Outerston.

M J Richardson

Temple Quarry sand and gravel conveyor

A 90-deg bend, at the side of the road. The quarry is 0.5 km to the left, and the conveyor can be seen snaking across the landscape to the trees on the skyline at the left.

M J Richardson

Temple Quarry Conveyor

Looking towards the quarry, about 0.5-km away, from a farm bridge over. Barley to the left, oats to the right. For those not sure of the difference see NT3357 : Barley near Outerston and NT3357 : Oats at Outerston.

M J Richardson

Ready to roll

Large barley bales on Rylaw Knowe at Castleton.

M J Richardson

Old quarry in Halkerston Glen

With the Middleton North Burn running through.

M J Richardson

Halkerston farm buildings

M J Richardson

Cemex - Temple Quarry

Part of Middleton Lime Works. An aerial view of this site is at NT3558 : Middleton lime works and quarry.

M J Richardson

Path in The Cleuch at North Middleton

This was the A7 Edinburgh-Carlisle trunk route until replaced by road improvements. Note the cat's-eye in the left foreground. This cleuch can be seen in the top left of the aerial view NT3558 : Middleton lime works and quarry.

M J Richardson

Oat field near Outerston

Taken from the bridge over the Temple Quarry conveyor, which does a left turn near here and can be seen heading off along the right-hand edge of the field to Middleton. There were also two roe deer enjoying the oats, but they moved away before I could catch them.

M J Richardson

Oats at Outerston

The least likely to be encountered of the three main UK cereals of wheat, barley and oats - each 'corn' in the parts of the country where they are the main cereal.

M J Richardson