GCVH2J Reclaimed (Traditional Cache) in Southern Scotland, United Kingdom created by Crazy Druid adopted by Blue Magician

This cache has been archived.

Blue Magician: Archived

GCVH2J ▼

A cache by Crazy Druid adopted by Blue Magician Message this owner

Hidden : 4/19/2006

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: small (small)

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Geocache Description:

This is a small cache situated in Loanhead. You will need to bring a pen or Pencil!!

Loanhead (pop. 6,900) is a small town in Midlothian, Scotland, to the south of Edinburgh, and close to Roslin, Bonnyrigg and Dalkeith. The town was built on coal and shale mining, and paper making, and was granted burgh status in 1884. It is now known for its annual gala day.
The town has three primary schools called Paradykes, St. Margarets and Loanhead Primary. Loanhead has seen some growth in recent years due to the development of Straiton Retail Park nearby.

Straiton Pond Local Nature Reserve is a small wildlife haven, set amid rolling farmland, and located close to Loanhead and the Straiton Retail Park. Designated a Local Nature Reserve in 1991, this hidden gem is a fine example of industrial land reclaimed by nature. The site supports a variety of watery and woodland plants and animals, making it a unique and important area to Midlothian. For over a century (1850 - 1950's), the pond was a working clay pit, supplying local brickworks with blue clay. After a period of dereliction and waste tipping, wildlife began to colonise the area, and water from a natural drainage source began to fill the pit as it does today.

The Reserve has changed a good deal since the last clay was extracted, and is now a pretty and peaceful spot for a picnic, stroll or birdwatch. Facilities: Although the reserve currently has no dedicated car park, it is conveniently situated across the road from the northern entrance of Straiton Retail Park. As well as an easy, circular walk, there is an outdoor bird observation post and an information board beside the pond.
Good Luck