Have you ever traced the journey of a river? Redside Burn begins its life as an outflow from the Edgelaw Reservoir. This isn’t just any reservoir. It’s a significant landmark. Its dam and associated structures are a Category B listed building. Redside Burn then flows northeast through a wooded valley. Imagine the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves. The air is fresh and clean. The water is clear. The burn’s journey is short only three kilometers. Yet in that short distance it carves its own path. It meanders through the landscape. It becomes a vital part of the ecosystem.
Redside Burn is more than just a waterway. It’s a historical thread weaving through Midlothian. Two bridges cross this unassuming stream. Both are listed buildings. The Carrington Bridge. A beautiful stone structure from the early 19th century. It’s a Category B listed building. Further upstream lies the Carrington Mill bridge. A charming Category C listed structure. These bridges are silent witnesses to centuries of activity. They’ve seen farmers and millers. They’ve seen families and travelers.
The Redside Burn’s destination? The South Esk River. The South Esk then flows into the Esk River. Finally the water reaches the Firth of Forth and then the North Sea. Redside Burn’s humble beginnings lead to a great journey. It’s a small but significant part of a much larger system. A testament to the interconnectedness of nature.
Near the mouth of the Redside Burn sits Arniston House. A magnificent manor house. It stands as a symbol of the area’s rich history. The juxtaposition of the small burn and grand house is striking. It highlights the enduring relationship between human settlement and the natural world. Standing here you can almost hear the whispers of history. You can almost feel the passage of time. Redside Burn’s modest scale belies its importance. It’s a vital part of the landscape. It’s a testament to the enduring power of nature.