Lochrin Basin

Lochrin Basin marks the start of the Union Canal. The Canal stretches about 30 miles until it joins the Forth-Clyde Canal - thus nowadays (and for a long time it was not the case) linking Edinburgh to Glasgow and beyond - joining the Clyde at Bowling.

The Union Canal was built in the early 19th century - and among the gangs working on the construction were a fine pair of Edinburgh worthies known as Burke and Hare!

Something attracts people to live beside water - and this place is no exception. This basin - almost 200 years ago - would have been an absolute riot of sound, industry and activity - as barges were prepared to move from the capital city west. Today it looks much more tranquil - but rather yuppie flats surround it - and the occasional recreational bargee passes through.