Carlops Drinking Fountain, Carlops Scottish Borders, Midlothian, Scotland

## Overview The Carlops Drinking Fountain is one of Scotland's oldest public drinking water fountains, nestled in the charming village of Carlops on the edge of the Scottish Borders and Midlothian. Water flows continuously from an ornate iron lion-head spout set into a historic stone dyke inscribed with the words **"God's Gift"**, dating back to **1860**. This beautifully preserved fountain has served travellers and locals alike for well over a century and a half, offering cool, refreshing spring water free of charge, day and night. The water has been reported to have a **TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) level of 111 ppm** and a **pH of 7.3**, making it slightly alkaline. Visitors have long reported that the water tastes clean and refreshing. The flow emerges at a gentle pace — particularly during winter months — so filling large containers may require some patience. Flow tends to increase during spring and autumn, likely influenced by seasonal rainfall levels. Carlops itself has a rich and colourful history. The village has long been associated with tales of witchcraft and folklore, and it is perhaps unsurprising that locals have attributed a somewhat supernatural origin to the fountain and its perpetual flow. The inscription "God's Gift" on the stonework speaks to the reverence with which the community has regarded this water source since Victorian times. The fountain sits close to the village green and the historic **Allan Ramsay Hotel**, named after the celebrated Scottish poet Allan Ramsay (1686–1758), who penned his famous pastoral comedy *The Gentle Shepherd* inspired by the landscapes around Carlops and the nearby Pentland Hills. ## Directions **GPS Coordinates:** 55.788345, -3.339289 The fountain is located roadside in Carlops village, easily accessible by car. **Approaching from the north (Edinburgh direction via A702):** 1. Head south on the **A702** towards Biggar. 2. As you enter Carlops village, look to your **right-hand side** — the fountain is set into a stone wall just before the **Allan Ramsay Hotel**. 3. There is limited roadside parking nearby. **Approaching from Carlops Hill (south/local approach):** 1. From Carlops Hill, drive approximately 99 metres northeast. 2. Turn **right** and continue for about 690 metres (roughly 4 minutes). 3. Bear **left** onto the **A702**. 4. After approximately 300 metres, the fountain will appear on your **left-hand side**. The fountain is very close to the **village green** and the **Allan Ramsay Hotel**, both of which serve as useful landmarks. ## What to Expect The Carlops Drinking Fountain is a small but charming roadside feature — easy to miss if you're not looking for it, but well worth a stop. The iron lion-head spout protrudes from a weathered stone dyke, and water flows continuously into a small basin below. The stonework bears the inscription "God's Gift" and dates to 1860, giving the fountain a wonderful sense of history. The water flow is gentle, especially in winter. If you plan to fill bottles or containers, allow extra time. During wetter seasons (spring and autumn), the flow reportedly picks up. The water is cool and has been described by visitors as clean-tasting and refreshing. The surrounding village of Carlops is a peaceful stop along the A702, with the Pentland Hills rising to the north and the rolling Borders countryside to the south. It makes an excellent waypoint for walkers tackling routes in the Pentlands or travellers heading between Edinburgh and the Borders. The Allan Ramsay Hotel, just steps away, offers food and drink if you'd like to linger. The fountain is open to the public at all times, with no fees or restrictions. It is fully accessible from the roadside — no hiking required.