Water of Ken facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Water of Ken |
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The Water of Ken upstream from High Bridge of Ken
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| Country | Scotland |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Blacklorg Hill |
| River mouth | Loch Ken |
| Basin features | |
| Tributaries |
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The Water of Ken is a river found in south-west Scotland. It flows through an area called Galloway in the historic county of Kirkcudbrightshire.
The river starts high up on Blacklorg Hill, which is part of the Carsphairn hills. From there, it flows towards the south-west into an area known as The Glenkens. Along its journey, the Water of Ken flows through three lochs (Scottish lakes): Kendoon, Carsfad, and Earlstoun. These lochs have dams that help create electricity for the Galloway Hydro Electric Scheme. This scheme uses the power of flowing water to make energy.
At Kendoon Dam, another important river, the Water of Deugh, joins the Water of Ken. After this, the river flows south, passing by the towns of St. John's Town of Dalry and New Galloway. Eventually, the river gets much wider and forms a large, long lake called Loch Ken, which is about 9 miles long.
Halfway down Loch Ken, another river called the Black Water of Dee flows into it. From the very end of Loch Ken, near Glenlochar, the river changes its name and continues as the Dee. The River Dee then flows towards the town of Kirkcudbright and finally reaches the coast.
Contents
Exploring Bridges Over the Water of Ken
The Water of Ken has several interesting bridges that cross it. These bridges help people and vehicles get from one side of the river to the other.
Smeaton's Bridge: A Historic Crossing
Smeaton's Bridge, sometimes called Smitton's Bridge, carries the B729 road. This road connects the villages of Carsphairn and Moniaive. The bridge crosses the Ken about half a mile upstream from where the Stroanfreggan burn joins the river. This old bridge has one arch that is 42 feet long.
High Bridge of Ken: A Narrow Gorge Crossing
A few miles further downstream, you'll find the High Bridge of Ken. This bridge crosses the river where it flows through a narrow, deep valley. It's on the B7000 back road that goes from Carsphairn to St John's Town of Dalry. The High Bridge has two arches, each 24 feet long. Experts believe this bridge was built in the early 1700s, or maybe even earlier!
Ken Bridge: Connecting Towns
Even further downstream is the Ken Bridge, located between St John's Town of Dalry and New Galloway. This bridge carries the A712 road, a main route in the area. It was built in 1822 and is quite long, at 340 feet. It has five arches made of granite, a very strong stone. Right next to the bridge, you'll find the Ken Bridge Hotel.
Images for kids
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Ken Bridge, view from the 'beer garden' of The Ken Bridge Hotel
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Water of Ken looking upstream from the Smeaton Bridge
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Water of Ken and bridge near Lorg
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Smittons Bridge looking upstream
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Water Of Ken looking upstream to the High Bridge
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Water Of Ken looking downstream to the Smeaton Bridge
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The High Bridge of Ken
External Links
- The Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership
