Black Cleuch

Valley in Roxburghshire

Scotland

Black Cleuch

Buttroads Sike in the Uswayford plantation Autumn approaching in this dense plantation. There are breaks where there is a stream though, known locally as sikes. Buttroads was one of the minor droving routes crossing the border ridge and dropping onto Randy&#039;s Gap on the Scottish side. — Buttroads Sike in the Uswayford plantation Credit: Steve Revell

Black Cleuch is a picturesque valley located in the county of Roxburghshire, Scotland. Nestled within the Southern Uplands, this valley is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. The word "cleuch" is a Scottish term for a narrow, steep-sided valley, and Black Cleuch aptly fits this description.

The valley is characterized by rolling green hills, scattered forests, and a winding river that meanders through its heart. The landscape is dotted with charming farmhouses, adding to the idyllic countryside feel. The fertile soil and favorable climate of the region make it an ideal location for agricultural activities, particularly sheep farming.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the diverse flora and fauna that call Black Cleuch home. The valley is home to a variety of bird species, including red kites, buzzards, and peregrine falcons. Additionally, the surrounding forests provide habitat for deer, badgers, and other small mammals.

Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Black Cleuch for its numerous hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. A popular trail leads visitors up to the nearby summit of Black Law, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and surrounding hills. The valley is also a great spot for fishing, with its river teeming with trout and salmon.

The peaceful and unspoiled nature of Black Cleuch makes it a haven for those seeking an escape from the bustle of city life. Its scenic beauty, rich wildlife, and recreational opportunities make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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Black Cleuch Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.439552/-2.2111178 or Grid Reference NT8616. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Buttroads Sike in the Uswayford plantation

Autumn approaching in this dense plantation. There are breaks where there is a stream though, known locally as sikes. Buttroads was one of the minor droving routes crossing the border ridge and dropping onto Randy's Gap on the Scottish side.

Steve Revell

Forest Track in Uswayford plantation

Looking North East towards the Cheviot massif (in the background) from the forest track between Buttraods Sike and Murder Cleugh. Note the amount of self seeded spruce on the track side.

Steve Revell

Passing Little Ward Law

Scotchman's Ford and the Border Ridge are in view. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21/22.

James T M Towill

Looking back over Scotchman's Ford

On the approach to Windy Gyle, Scotchman's Ford has to be crossed. Not much to speak of at the moment, but one could imagine it being a boot soaker after heavy rain or a thaw. This view is taken on the approach to Windy Gyle, looking back to the ford. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21/22.

James T M Towill

Triangulation pillar at Russell's Cairn, Windy Gyle

619 metres above sea level and offering a commanding view over the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21/22.

James T M Towill

Split the Deil

Presumably this is the name given to this junction of tracks below the summit of Windy Gyle which also serves as the English/Scottish boundary. 'Deil' is an old Scots name for the Devil. Note the effects of erosion here, with narrow deep gullies having formed. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21/22.

James T M Towill

On Windy Gyle with a view towards cloud-capped The Cheviot and Hedgehope Hill

A beautiful, cold late afternoon on Windy Gyle. For the record, it was -2°C (-11°C with wind chill) at the nearby summit. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21/22.

James T M Towill

Summit of Little Ward Law

The sac marks the 495 metre high top of Little Ward Law with Windy Gyle in the background. For a selection of detailed free to download walking routes in the area visit Link

Geoff Holland

Wardlaw Burn

The Wardlaw Burn runs through this deep set valley to eventually merge with the Trows Burn. When this photograph was taken there appeared to be a mere trickle of water flowing downstream. For a selection of detailed free to download walking routes in the area visit Link

Geoff Holland

Scotchman's Ford

This ford crosses the infant Wardlaw Burn which rises less than 300 metres away on the upper slopes of Windy Gyle. When this photograph was taken there was very little water flowing over the ford. For a selection of detailed free to download walking routes in the area visit Link

Geoff Holland

Windy Gyle Summit

The summit of Windy Gyle, the fourth highest of the Cheviot Hills, is marked by a huge cairn, known as Russell's Cairn, topped with a triangulation pillar. The summit enjoys near 360 degree views, and in this photograph both Hedgehope Hill and the mighty Cheviot are clearly visible in the distance. The Pennine Way passes over the top of this fine hill and is therefore one of the most regularly visited of all the Cheviot Hills. For a selection of detailed free to download walking routes in the area visit Link

Geoff Holland

Gate between England and Scotland, Windy Gyle

The gate leads from Scotland, where the photographer is standing, into England, and lies on the route of the Pennine Way. Ahead lies Windy Rig. For a selection of detailed free to download walking routes in the area visit Link

Geoff Holland

West of Outer Cock Law

Looking down the gully on the west of the hill across to Windy Rig. The gully is very loose material comprising highly altered rocks affected by the long disappeared volcanic structure of the Kingseat area.

Steve Revell

Randy's Gap nr Kingseat

Looking up to the Border Ridge to the fork in Randy's Gap, a steep sided twin gully of highly altered rocks affected by the Kingseat volcanic mineralisation.

Steve Revell

Thief's Slack on East side of Cock Law

A small sike on the side of Cock Law presumably where a thief could exit the main drover's road and head across to the more secretive Randy's Gap as a route into England across the Border.

Steve Revell