Cairn Hill

Hill, Mountain in Wigtownshire

Scotland

Cairn Hill

Snow on the shore and lying on the sea at Sandhead A heavy snow shower fell on the sand when the tide was out. The incoming tide lifted the snow on top of the water. A rare sight for somewhere that gets snow about once every two or three years. — Snow on the shore and lying on the sea at Sandhead Credit: Colin McDonald

Cairn Hill is a prominent hill located in Wigtownshire, a region in southwestern Scotland. It is part of the Galloway Hills range, which spans across Dumfries and Galloway. Rising to an elevation of 711 meters (2,333 feet), Cairn Hill is considered one of the highest peaks in the area, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The hill is characterized by its rugged and rocky terrain, covered in heather and grasses typical of the Scottish uplands. Its distinctive profile can be seen from miles away, making it a recognizable landmark in the region. Cairn Hill is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, attracting visitors from both near and far who are seeking a challenging yet rewarding climb.

Due to its height and exposed location, the weather conditions on Cairn Hill can be unpredictable, with strong winds and rapidly changing temperatures. It is advisable for visitors to come prepared with appropriate clothing and equipment to ensure their safety and enjoyment.

Cairn Hill also holds historical significance, as it is believed to have been a key landmark for early settlers and travelers in the region. The hill's name originates from the presence of cairns, which are ancient man-made stone structures that were used for various purposes, including burial sites or markers. These cairns serve as a reminder of the hill's long-standing importance to the local community.

Overall, Cairn Hill in Wigtownshire stands as a striking natural feature amidst the Galloway Hills, offering an adventurous and scenic experience for those who choose to explore its slopes.

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Cairn Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.798985/-4.9788046 or Grid Reference NX0848. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Snow on the shore and lying on the sea at Sandhead

A heavy snow shower fell on the sand when the tide was out. The incoming tide lifted the snow on top of the water. A rare sight for somewhere that gets snow about once every two or three years.

Colin McDonald

Shoreline, Sandhead bay

This shore is at the south end of Sandhead Bay - part of Luce Bay

Ann Cook

Farmland near Ardwell Mill

David Baird

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

Sandhead Village, about 8 miles South of Stranraer

The village of Sandhead photographed on a dull Autumn day from the beach at low tide.

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

Sandhead beach

Looking north east.

David Medcalf

Sandhead beach

Looking south.

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

Playground at Sandhead

The main part of the village is on a raised beach. The old sea cliff can be seen behind.

Oliver Dixon

Low lying land near Meikle Float

And the gorse in bloom in late November.

Gordon Brown

Stoneykirk Old Manse, Sandhead

Old manse for the now disused Stoneykirk Free Church (in trees behind manse); both date from 1844. The buildings actually stand to the south of Sandhead at Lake Cottage junction.

Chris Newman

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