Clubbiedean Reservoir

High above Edinburgh, nestled in the Pentland Hills, lies Clubbiedean Reservoir. It’s a place of tranquility, a world away from the city’s hustle and bustle, yet only a short drive away. Clubbiedean Reservoir isn’t just a picturesque spot for a relaxing afternoon. It holds layers of history, some visible, some hidden beneath the shimmering surface. Today, Clubbiedean Reservoir is known as a family-friendly fishery. It caters to fly anglers and bait fishers of all skill levels. You can rent boats, purchase permits, and even get basic tackle and bait on-site. The crystal-clear water is teeming with wild brown trout, rainbow trout, and blue trout, inviting anglers to test their skills. But long before the sound of fishing rods and laughter echoed across the water, this place held a different significance. An ancient fort once stood here, its ramparts and ditches silently witnessing the passage of time. This prehistoric fort, also known as Clubbiedean, predates the reservoir itself. Imagine a time before the 19th century, when the reservoir didn’t exist. The fort would have stood on a promontory, overlooking a steep defile and a small burn or loch. The fort’s sub-oval shape is still discernible, a ghostly outline against the modern landscape. Two concentric earthen ramparts and ditches, now partially submerged by the reservoir, once protected the inhabitants. The northern part of the fort, now under water, was naturally defended by the loch or burn. Can you picture the people who lived here, their daily lives, their hopes and fears? They built their homes, raised their families, and defended their territory within these very hills. The construction of the reservoir in the 19th century dramatically altered the landscape, submerging a portion of the fort and creating the tranquil fishing spot we see today. As you stand here, by the edge of Clubbiedean Reservoir, try to envision the layers of history beneath your feet. The anglers casting their lines, the families enjoying picnics, the ancient people who once called this place home. Clubbiedean Reservoir is a place where the past and present intertwine, a hidden gem in the heart of the Pentland Hills. It’s more than just a reservoir. It’s a living testament to the enduring power of history.