Waterbeck

WATERBECK is a small rural village of around 40 houses within a strong farming community. Originally an estate village owned by the well-known Carlyle family, it comprises the original stone cottages and houses with a centrally situated principal house as well as some newer houses and conversions. One of the most thriving villages in the South of Scotland in the 1800's with a high reputation for producing cured bacon, seeds and clogs. Businesses now range from traditional agriculture and other land-based industries such as quarrying, timber, contracting, fencing and farm butchery to construction, publishing, printing and tourism. Although Waterbeck is a quiet village, it is easily accessible with the B722 road passing through the village, linking the M74 and A7 main routes north.

The population of the Waterbeck area is in excess of 350. We no longer have a shop or post office but our church, village hall and school (Hottsbridge) are all very much central to our community.

A congregation has worshipped in Waterbeck since 1790 - our present church and manse being built in 1868 (at a recorded cost of £1868!!), funded by local landowners and public donations. We have 65 members although the church has a capacity of around 350 which maybe required for larger weddings, funerals, joint congregational services and school services. Although we have only a small congregation attending our fortnightly services, we have regular fund raising activities that are very well supported by people from the surrounding area. The church building is in good order and is well maintained. There is also a church bell which may be rung for regular and special services.

The village hall, situated adjacent, is used by the church for social meetings, ceilidhs, coffee mornings, bring & buy sales and other regular events such as our legendary cream teas held every Sunday in July. In addition, there are weekly meetings of the mother and toddler group, bowling club, aerobics, computer and craft classes and school gym activities. Other meetings include SWRI, Community Council, village social club events, school concerts and charity fund raising such as the Macmillan Coffee Morning which we have held every year for the past 6 years, raising almost £5000. The mobile library visits every 3 weeks and we have a regular bus link to and from neighbouring villages. There is a well equipped childrens' playground within the village with swings and slides.

Hottsbridge school is situated about ½ a mile outside the village. Originally housed in the village hall, the purpose built school was brought into use for all pupils in 1902. Presently a two teacher school with an active P.T.A. and regular visiting specialist teachers.

Waterbeck has a true community spirit and will pull together "for the good of the whole community" whatever the need.