Cauld On River Tweed, Kelso

The Cauld on the River Tweed in Kelso is a weir of comparatively early date, located just above where the River Teviot joins the Tweed. It is approximately 400 meters long and is set diagonally across the river. The structure appears to be built in two sections, possibly using the wooded islet known as "Kelso Anna" as a stepping stone, or it may be partially buried by it. The exact date of construction is difficult to determine, but some parts may date back to medieval times, as a mill associated with the nearby Abbey has existed in Kelso since early history. A view by Slezer published in 1693 seems to depict a cauld, although "Kelso Anna" is not shown. The weir is primarily stone-built, with some concrete repairs. The shallower west end features paving with a framework of timber baulks, which may be of relatively recent origin, possibly from the 19th century. Additionally, there is a steel and concrete salmon leap near the west bank, which is the only modern element of the structure, but it occupies the site of a salmon leap marked on the 1857 Ordnance Survey map.