Edinburgh and the Lothians have countless, old and unique, ancient attractions scattered across the areas that date back hundreds of years.
From West Lothian's, Linlithgow Palace across to East Lothian's, Tantallon Castle there are historical landmarks which are well known but there is one just outside of Edinburgh that sits forgotten.
Located in the small town of Carlops, close to Penicuik lies a water fountain with a lion's head that dates back 163 years and is still operational and used by locals and passers-by daily
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According to Historic Environment Scotland, the well and drinking fountain was constructed in 1860 and has a unique design to add to it's historic nature.
On the Historic Scotland website they gave a description of the fountain and gave further detailed analysis of the distinctive design aspects, it reads: "Dated, 1860. Well and drinking fountain set within round-headed alcove flanked by swept, coped walls surmounted by pyramidal finials.
"Cast iron lamp fixture above arch; carved urn finial to apex. Coursed, pale freestone. Inscribed with initials of donor, Hugh Horatio Brown of Newhall."
The fountain can be found by Penicuik and West Linton which is close to the Pentland Hills in the town of Carlops.
Heading south, if you look to your right hand side just after the town hall and before the Adam Ramsay Hotel you will be able to see the fountain that is still operational.
If you wish to drink from the fountain you can put your heart at rest as a healthy amount of natural spring water will shoot downwards out of the lion's head.
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The information went onto say that the fountain was "a fine example of a mid 19th century well and drinking fountain, notable for its well-detailed carving with distinctive curved alcove flanked by swept, coped walls surmounted by finials.
"Prominently located beside the road, the structure adds considerably to the interest of the village streetscape. The structure was donated by the Browns of nearby Newhall House which is located nearby in Penicuik Parish"
Today, the fountain is renowned as one of the oldest in Scotland. Its waters are highly-rated among spring enthusiasts online.
Reviewing the Carlops fountain on the Find A Spring website, Betsy wrote: "This water is lovely. The flow output is sometimes fast sometimes slow. But it’s worth it."
Fionn Dorrans added: "The Carlops fountain is quite difficult to find if you've never been there before, but its water is absolutely delicious and well worth the trip."
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