Sourhope

Settlement in Roxburghshire

Scotland

Sourhope

Old milestone This milestone, about ½ mile from the end of tarmac at Cocklawfoot used to stand much higher. In 2019 it was reported lying fully exposed on the banking on the opposite side of the road. Fortunately it has been set back on its correct side, the east, although well sunken. This stone has H/11½ on its left face with the mileage under the soil level. KELSO, sloping upwards, with 15, not visible, is on the right. It was hoped that there might be more milestones on the track, Clennell Street, over to Alwinton and Harbottle but none were found on the 2½ mile walk up to the border with England. — Old milestone Credit: Chris Minto

Sourhope is a small hamlet located in the county of Roxburghshire, in the Scottish Borders region of Scotland. Situated amidst the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, Sourhope offers a tranquil and idyllic setting for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.

The hamlet is known for its rural charm and stunning natural beauty. Surrounded by lush green meadows and rugged moorland, it provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography. The nearby Cheviot Hills and Pennine Way attract outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Despite its small size, Sourhope has a rich history dating back centuries. The area was once home to shepherds and farmers who tended to their flocks and cultivated the land. Today, evidence of this agricultural heritage can still be seen in the form of stone walls, traditional cottages, and old farm buildings.

Sourhope is also renowned for its scientific significance. The hilltop location is home to a research station operated by the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology. The station focuses on studying the local flora and fauna, climate change, and environmental monitoring. This scientific presence further adds to the unique character of the hamlet.

Although Sourhope is a relatively remote location, it is within driving distance of nearby towns and villages, such as Jedburgh and Kelso, where amenities such as shops, restaurants, and accommodations can be found. Nevertheless, it is the unspoiled beauty and peacefulness of Sourhope that truly captivate visitors and make it a hidden gem in Roxburghshire.

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Sourhope Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.475843/-2.2456414 or Grid Reference NT8420. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Old milestone

This milestone, about ½ mile from the end of tarmac at Cocklawfoot used to stand much higher. In 2019 it was reported lying fully exposed on the banking on the opposite side of the road. Fortunately it has been set back on its correct side, the east, although well sunken. This stone has H/11½ on its left face with the mileage under the soil level. KELSO, sloping upwards, with 15, not visible, is on the right. It was hoped that there might be more milestones on the track, Clennell Street, over to Alwinton and Harbottle but none were found on the 2½ mile walk up to the border with England.

Chris Minto

Old milestone

A view looking northwards up the Bowmont Water valley with the Kelso 15 milestone on the verge.

Chris Minto

Road to Sourhope

Richard Webb

Park Law

A spur above the Bowmont Water with a hill fort at the summit.

Richard Webb

Road to Cocklawfoot

Richard Webb

Cattle, Sourhope

Richard Webb

Park Law hill fort

View across Sourhope Burn with the slopes of The Cheviot in the background.

Richard Webb

Road from Sourhope

The way out, down the Bowmont Water.

Richard Webb

Plantation, Bught Stack

Above the Bowmont Water.

Richard Webb

The Castles

One of the many earthworks and hill forts along the Bowmont Water.

Richard Webb

Bowmont Water Valley at Swindon

Alan Reid

Swindon

A farm on Bowmont Water.

Alan Reid

Swindon Haugh and the forested slopes of Swindon Hill

In the upper Bowmont valley.

Oliver Dixon

Gateway out of forest near Cocklawfoot, Kelso

Snowfields on western aspects courtesy of 'The Beast from the East'- a week or so of bitter easterlies out of Siberia so dubbed by the media. A reversal of the jet stream consequent to sudden warming at stratospheric level (at 30km there was a 50c temperature rise) saw Siberian air push across the North Atlantic as far as Greenland.

ian shiell