The catchment area of the River Esk, from source to sea, is the geographical area of our concern, interest and activity.

The river North Esk rises in the Pentland Hills above the N. Esk Reservoir while the source of the river South Esk is beyond Gladhouse Reservoir in the Moorfoot Hills. Both rivers flow northeast through wooded valleys rich in wildlife, history, towns and villages, to their confluence at Waters’ Meet in Dalkeith Country Park.

As one river, The Esk then flows for a short distance through East Lothian where its banks form an attractive backdrop to the seaside town of Musselburgh situated at its mouth on the Firth of Forth.