Renewables

The hydro station construction is the first of its kind on the River Tweed system and consequently the first of its kind in the Borders. When running to maximum capacity the station can generate enough electricity to power 225 houses.

At the cauld where the station is located, you can learn about the two extraordinary Archimedes Screw Turbines and the way in which they harness energy to produce the electricity that is then transferred to the National Grid.

All care was taken whilst constructing this inaugural hydro power station in the Borders to conserve the 160 year-old eco-system created by the Cauld, this is was done with the addition of a flap valve above the cault which controls the flow of water through the old mill lade to ensure the protection of the delicate eco-system. This station is only possible on this site due to the construction in 1854 by Sir John Murray of a ‘Cauld” or (dam) across the Ettrick Water, which forced water down the mill lade. The water turned hugh wheels, which powered the sawmill and a Tweed mill near Selkirk, which was build by tyhe Roberts Brothers. To this day you can see the water wheel at the sawmill as you walk along the path towards the Cauld.

Once you are at the Cauld, we would also encourage you to take a short walk ip the rover to see the stunning view where the River Ettrick and Yarrow meet and then slowly meander back through the beautiful woodland toward the Waterwheel Cafe and Salmon Viewing Centre, or carry on further to the Walled Garden and Nursery or Selkirk Distillers