Heading for hills to end festival on high

MOFFAT’S Hills will be the backdrop for the breathtaking conclusion of this year’s Immerse Festival.

The hills hold a unique position in Scottish geography as the source for major river systems flowing east via the River Tweed, north to the Firth of Clyde and south to the Solway Firth by the river Annan.

To showcase their beauty and importance two immersive walking experiences on September 26 and 27 will reveal the hidden connections between ancient healing traditions, contemporary climate challenges, and the exploration of man’s changing relationship with water.

Friday’s expedition to Hartfell Spa Well explores Scotland’s historic relationship with chalybeate springs – mineral-rich waters once believed to possess healing and prophetic properties.

Led by Dr Jan Hogarth, the walk combines cultural archaeology with contemporary discussions about what healing might mean for landscapes facing climate change.

She said: “The Hartfell Spa Well represents a fascinating intersection between cultural history and environmental science. These upland springs were once destinations for people seeking wellness, and now we’re asking similar questions about how healthy landscapes can support both human and ecological wellbeing in an era of environmental change.

“Having been born and brought up in Annandale, I know what a special place this is, with many beautiful places in its uphill tributaries on the Milk or up the Wamphray Water. Like so many of Scotland’s natural treasures, these places face future challenges of nature loss and climate change.”

Meanwhile Saturday’s event, ‘Searching for the Source of the Annan’ follows eco artist and film-maker John Wallace in search of the river’s source. It builds on his decade-long artistic investigation of how climate change affects Scotland’s upland watersheds.

The walk provides opportunities for participants to share their own experiences of landscape change while exploring how watersheds connect upland environments with coastal communities downstream.

Dr Hogarth added: “I’d encourage anyone with an interest in the natural world to come and experience these extraordinary places through one of these immersive walks. There’s nothing quite like standing where a river begins its journey to understand how connected we all are to these landscapes.”

To view the full Immerse Festival programme visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk and search ‘ SCAMP Landscape Connections’.