A short walk through a delightful hidden gorge on the River North Esk near Carlops, with contrasting stories of warm Carboniferous seas and glacial meltwater!

THE ROCKS: Carlops sits on the Pentland Fault where older volcanic rocks of the Pentland Hills sit next to the edge of the Midlothian coal basin, with sedimentary rocks formed during the Carboniferous Period, including limestone and sandstone layers. These layers have been eroded by glacial meltwater as the ice melted at the end of the last glacial period, creating an impressive series of channels and gorges.

THE WALK: from Carlops we will follow good paths and tracks (which may be muddy in places) into Habbie’s Howe and walk through the gorge, following a circular route that brings us back to Carlops on the other side of the river. Total distance  6 km. I have classified this as a Moderate walk: not always on paths, it may be rough or slippery underfoot at times. It may be wet, windy or cold. Come equipped with strong footwear and waterproof clothing.

MEETING POINT & ROUTE: Meet at the car park in Carlops, opposite the village hall – on the east side of the A702, south end of the village. Grid reference NT161558| Nearest Postcode: EH26 9NF | What3Words: bribing.goals.attention | Route Map.