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 region in southwestern Scotland. Standing at an elevation of approximately 325 meters (1,066 feet), it is one of the highest points in the area. The hill is situated near the village of Cairnryan, just a few miles from the coast of Loch Ryan.

Cairn Hill boasts a distinctive rounded shape and is covered in lush green vegetation, primarily consisting of grasses and heather. Its slopes are gentle, making it a relatively easy climb for hikers and nature enthusiasts. From the summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including Loch Ryan, the Irish Sea, and the distant hills of Galloway Forest Park.

This hill holds significant historical and archaeological importance. It is believed to have been used as a burial site during ancient times, as evidenced by the presence of several cairns (piles of stones) scattered across its slopes. Cairn Hill also played a role in military history, serving as a lookout point during World War II due to its strategic location overlooking the sea.

Today, Cairn Hill attracts both locals and tourists who seek outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. It offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and provides an opportunity to explore the rich history and natural beauty of Wigtownshire.

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Cairn Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.781853/-4.9830041 or Grid Reference NX0847. 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

Ardwell Bay (or High Ardwell Bay as the locals call it).

Ardwell Bay on the west side if the Rhins of Galloway peninsula facing onto the Irish Sea with good views to Northern Ireland on a clear day.

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

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

West Ringuinea roadend

The farm itself in the distance.

Gordon Brown

Salt Pan Cottage

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

Bill Lord

Farmhouse and Bones Plantation

Rhins farmhouse on quiet country road

Bill Lord

Whitewashed Cottages on Quiet lane

Two typical one storey cottages facing each other on a deserted country lane leading to the sea

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