Cairn Hill

Hill, Mountain in Wigtownshire

Scotland

Cairn Hill

Kirkmadrine Church (disused) This disused church is only just in this square located at NX080484. Housed in the old entrance to the church are some of the earliest Christian sculptured stones some of which date back to the 5th century. — Kirkmadrine Church (disused) Credit: Dave Smethurst

Cairn Hill is a prominent hill located in Wigtownshire, a historic county in the southwest of Scotland. Situated near the village of Kirkcowan, the hill forms part of the Galloway Hills range and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Standing at an elevation of 658 meters (2,159 feet), Cairn Hill is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. It boasts a distinctive conical shape with a rocky summit, making it easily recognizable from a distance. The hill is composed primarily of granite, which gives it a rugged and picturesque appearance.

The ascent to Cairn Hill can be challenging, with steep slopes and uneven terrain. However, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the rolling hills, moorland, and distant mountains. On clear days, it is possible to see as far as the Irish Sea and the Isle of Man.

Wildlife is abundant in the area surrounding Cairn Hill. The hill is home to a variety of bird species, including peregrine falcons, buzzards, and red kites. Hares, deer, and sheep can also be spotted in the hillsides.

Cairn Hill is steeped in history and folklore. In ancient times, it is said to have been a site of pagan rituals and burial mounds. Today, it remains an important landmark in the local community, attracting visitors from near and far who seek to explore its natural beauty and learn about its rich heritage.

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Cairn Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.78914/-5.0028639 or Grid Reference NX0747. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Kirkmadrine Church (disused)

This disused church is only just in this square located at NX080484. Housed in the old entrance to the church are some of the earliest Christian sculptured stones some of which date back to the 5th century.

Dave Smethurst

The old schoolhouse at Clachanmore, Ardwell.

The old schoolhouse situated at Clachanmore crossroads near Ardwell is the former schoolhouse for Ardwell. It was recently used as an Art gallery, but has since closed and is now a private house.

Colin McDonald

Kirkmadrine Church

Probably the site of a monastery in the early Christian period and later of a medieval parish church, built as a burial chapel in the late 19th Century by Lady McTaggart Stewart of Ardwell.

Ian Stewart

Cross in Kirkmadrine Churchyard

Ian Stewart

Float Bay near Stoneykirk, Stranraer, Wigtownshire

Another beautiful bay in Southwest Scotland.

Colin McDonald

The point at the end of Float Bay beyond Castle Naught

A lovely seascape taken on a beautiful February day at Float Bay.

Colin McDonald

Cottages near the old school

David Medcalf

Another view of the old school at Ardwell

David Medcalf

Kirkmadrine Church

This is no longer used as a church but it is the site of an early Christian community. The Kirkmadrine Stones are fine sculptured stones from the 5th century. They are displayed in a glass-fronted porch at the west of the church.

Ann Cook

Church Porch, Kirkmadrine

This is a glassed porch which contains early Christian stones [5th century]

Ann Cook

Field -gulls following the plough

After harvesting, the stubble is being ploughed in. This is on an unclassified road near Sandhead, between Balgreggan and Cairngarroch farms.

Ann Cook

West Ringuinea roadend

The farm itself in the distance.

Gordon Brown

Looking towards Meikle Float

Gordon Brown

Low lying land near Meikle Float

And the gorse in bloom in late November.

Gordon Brown

Rough grazing near Auchentibbert

Gordon Brown

Salt Pan Cottage

This cottage was where salt was obtained by the evaporation of sea water

Bill Lord

Kirkmadrine Stones

The 5th century Kirkmadrine Christian sculptured stones are displayed in the glass-fronted west porch of Kirkmadrine Church; they are under the care of Historic Scotland.

Chris Newman