Bavelaw Castle

Heritage Site in Midlothian

Scotland

Bavelaw Castle

Heather on Black Hill Heather covered slopes on the southern running shoulder of Black Hill. — Heather on Black Hill Credit: Colin Kinnear

Bavelaw Castle is an ancient ruins located in Midlothian, Scotland. Situated on the slopes of the Pentland Hills, the castle holds a significant historical and cultural importance in the region. Although now reduced to mere remnants, the ruins provide a glimpse into the castle's former grandeur.

The origins of Bavelaw Castle can be traced back to the 15th century when it was built as a fortified tower house. It served as a stronghold for the Bavelaw family, who were prominent landowners in the area. Over the centuries, the castle was expanded and modified, reflecting the changing architectural styles and needs of its inhabitants.

Today, the ruins consist of a partially collapsed tower and remnants of outer walls. Despite its dilapidated state, the castle still exudes an aura of medieval charm. Visitors can explore the site and imagine its former glory, with the surrounding landscape providing a picturesque backdrop.

Bavelaw Castle is a popular destination for history enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers. Its location amidst the Pentland Hills offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and opportunities for outdoor activities. The castle is also a designated heritage site, protected and preserved by local authorities.

While there are no visitor facilities or guided tours available at the site, the ruins of Bavelaw Castle offer a unique opportunity to connect with Scotland's rich history and appreciate the architectural heritage of the region.

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Bavelaw Castle Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.851/-3.3313 or Grid Reference NT1662. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Heather on Black Hill

Heather covered slopes on the southern running shoulder of Black Hill.

Colin Kinnear

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

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

Green Cleugh

One of the glacial meltwater channels which are a major feature of the Pentland Hills. The channel provides an obvious pass route which is very popular.

Richard Webb