Redford Wood

Wood, Forest in Midlothian

Scotland

Redford Wood

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

Redford Wood is a picturesque forest located in Midlothian, Scotland. Situated just a few miles outside the bustling city of Edinburgh, this woodland area is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Covering an area of approximately 150 acres, Redford Wood is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The forest is mainly composed of native species such as oak, birch, and pine trees, providing a tranquil and serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. The woodland floor is adorned with a carpet of bluebells during the spring season, creating a visually stunning display.

The forest is crisscrossed by a network of well-maintained walking trails, making it an ideal location for hikers and walkers of all abilities. These trails offer visitors the opportunity to explore the woodland at their own pace, with options for short, leisurely strolls or longer, more challenging hikes.

Redford Wood is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a wide range of bird species. Birdwatchers can spot woodpeckers, owls, and even the elusive red kite soaring through the treetops.

Facilities within the forest include designated picnic areas, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. There are also information boards dotted throughout the woodland, providing interesting facts about the local wildlife and history of the area.

Overall, Redford Wood is a hidden gem in Midlothian, offering a peaceful escape from the urban environment and a chance to connect with nature.

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Redford Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.860079/-3.3341554 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

Control valve on Harlaw Reservoir

Bridge out from Harlaw Reservoir dam to the control mechanism. An angler fishes from the foot of the dam. West Kip NT1760 in the Pentland Hills can be seen on the skyline.

Oliver Dixon

Harlaw Reservoir outflows

Banks supported by gabions.

Gordon Brown

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

Through the trees to Harlaw Reservoir

Threipmuir and Harlaw Reservoirs were completed in 1848 as a water supply for Edinburgh. Nowadays these reservoirs provide essential upstream flood storage to prevent flooding of the Water of Leith, but are no longer used for water supply.

Gordon Brown