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Gartmorn Walk

Gartmorn Dam Country Park

Winter Walk Day

Dec 29

Other Scottish Country Dances for this Day

Today's Musings, History & Folklore

"Through snowy paths, our laughter flows,
With every step, our friendship grows.
The world feels lighter, the sky more clear,
With friends beside, thereโ€™s naught to fear."

Gartmorn, nestled in the heart of Clackmannanshire, Scotland, is a picturesque area steeped in history and natural beauty. At its heart lies Gartmorn Dam, one of Scotland's oldest reservoirs, built in 1713 by engineer George Sorocold to power local mines and mills. Today, the dam and its surrounding woodlands form a tranquil country park, offering serene trails perfect for a winter walk. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of waterfowl braving the cold. Highlights include the woodland paths, scenic viewpoints over the reservoir, and remnants of historic waterworks, all of which evoke the areaโ€™s rich industrial past. Take a long dancing stroll with this namesake 40 bar reel with its friendly hand in hand figures for both partners and "reel" friends on both ladies' and men's sides! ๐Ÿ’™ ๐Ÿค ๐Ÿ’™ โ˜ƒ๏ธ โ„๏ธ ๐Ÿ•บ ๐Ÿ’ƒ

Gartmorn Walk

Gartmorn, located in Clackmannanshire, Scotland, is a site rich in industrial and natural heritage. At its heart lies Gartmorn Dam, a reservoir constructed in 1713 by the renowned engineer George Sorocold, under the commission of John Erskine, the 6th Earl of Mar. The dam was originally created to supply water to the coal mines and mills of Alloa, demonstrating an early example of hydraulic engineering. Its construction involved diverting water from the Black Devon River via a two-mile-long lade, an impressive feat of ingenuity for its time.


Over the centuries, Gartmorn has transitioned from an industrial hub to a peaceful retreat. The surrounding woodlands and trails that developed around the reservoir became a sanctuary for wildlife and a recreational area for the local community. During the 18th and 19th centuries, it supported industries pivotal to the region, while today it serves as a haven for birdwatchers, hikers, and history enthusiasts.  


Gartmorn is known for Gartmorn Dam,  one of the oldest reservoirs in Scotland, highlighting early advancements in water management.


It is home to diverse ecosystems, particularly waterfowl and woodland species, protected within the Gartmorn Dam Country Park.   Today, it is a popular destination for walking, cycling, and enjoying tranquil winter landscapes, as well as a source of inspiration for artists and historians.


Take an online walk at Gartmorn by clicking the photo below.

Gartmorn Walk

Click the dance cribs or description below to link to a printable version of the dance!

Gartmorn Walk

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