Pirn Wood and Leithen Water

A short circular starting on the old stone bridge, The Cuddy Brig, and passing under the beeches and oaks of Pirn Community Woodland before returning by the Leithen Water.

The Cuddy Brig was built from money saved by the community at a time when there was no minister.
Look out for Jenny’s Well: Jenny’s Well surfaces opposite the picnic area above the Cuddy Brig and falls into the Leithen. The spring originally provided fresh water for the nearby cottages. The pretty spot was also popular with school children who would stop there for a cool drink. The well is named after Jenny Baptie (d.1915) who sold home-made sweets from her cottage across from the well.

1. Turn right out of the car park at Leithen Road and take the right turn over the Cuddy Brig. Leithen House, beside the Cuddy Brig, is worth stopping to admire as long as consideration is given to the owners. Built in the Regency style in 1828, the wrought iron balconettes and door surround are later additions. The building was formerly known as Marmion House and was built by merchant Robert Boyd with a shop attached; Leithen road is marked as Marmion Place on the first edition map. It was at some time an inn and local folklore maintains that Sir Walter Scott wrote the opening lines of ‘Marmion House’ within the building.

2. At the other side do not go down the steps to your left, turn left where the finger post is pointing. Follow this forest path, eventually becoming a track, for 1.5km.

3. Just after passing the golf club house down on your left, turn left down to the road through a field gate. At the road turn left and cross the Leithen Water over the road bridge. After passing the sluice on your left leave the road to take a path towards the riverside.

4. After 1km turn right over a little bridge that takes you back onto Leithen Road. Turn left onto the pavement to return to your starting point.