Naturewatch: The Deich Burn
Explore our grounds with this week's Naturewatch
The next instalment of our tour of the grounds of Kilgraston must focus on the focal point of the gardens – the 700 metre long winding Deich Burn which cuts diagonally across our land from, the southwest corner of our 58 acres to the north west corner, entering from the adjoining fields and exiting in Bridge of Earn, before joining the River Earn. We have no fewer than five bridges criss-crossing the stream. It flows gently most of the time, occasionally rising to a menacing spate after heavy rainfall.
A journey down memory lane is testament to the past glory of our precious water way, now a haven for plants and birds, as described in The Courier History Notes:
“It was at the end of the 18th century when the so called ‘healing wells’ of Pitkeathly, near Bridge of Earn began to be developed. The Grants, newly arrived at Kilgraston bought the adjoining property of Pitkeathly Wells.
As the years went by, Pitkeathly Wells became a popular spa for which many healing properties were claimed. For many, the attractions were as much social as medicinal.
All through the Victorian era, Pitkeathly Wells continued to flourish. In the extensive grounds there were facilities for playing tennis, bowls and croquet. Pitkeathly water enjoyed a large sale. It could be supplied at a cost of 6d per gallon and was available in jars at many chemists. It was also sold as far afield as London. Before the first World War, the Wells were leased and later sold to Schweppes. As the years went by its popularity dwindled and finally in 1949 the Spa was closed.” John L Wilson Perthshire Diary; www.perthshirediary.com/html/day0618.html
The polka dot parade now adorns the banks of the burn. Go and see them at their best!
Maggie Saunders, English Department
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