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.

The Esk Valley Trust was formed in April 2001 by groups of local people interested in the countryside of Midlothian and East Lothian. The aims of the Trust are to

• Stimulate public interest in the Esk Valley
• Care for the beauty, history and character of the river valleys
• Encourage sustainable public amenities for the benefit of its local communities and others
• Support and augment the activities of local groups and national and local authorities
• Promote a long-distance path route to be known as the ‘Esk Way’

In 2005, the Trust was honoured to receive the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

The Trust membership includes both individuals and local community groups along the valleys.