Cairnscarrow

Hill, Mountain in Wigtownshire

Scotland

Cairnscarrow

Farm Ruins The ruins of Inchbread farm lie at the foot of the Moors. — Farm Ruins Credit: David Baird

Cairnscarrow is a prominent hill located in Wigtownshire, Scotland. It is situated in the southwestern part of the country near the town of Kirkcowan. This hill is part of the Galloway Hills range, which is known for its picturesque landscapes and rugged terrain.

Cairnscarrow stands at an elevation of approximately 397 meters (1,302 feet) above sea level, making it a significant landmark in the area. Its distinctive shape and towering presence make it a popular destination for hikers, mountaineers, and nature enthusiasts.

The hill is characterized by its steep slopes and rocky outcrops, providing a challenging but rewarding climb for those seeking adventure. The summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including the rolling hills, forests, and nearby Loch Moan.

Cairnscarrow is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with heather, grasses, and wildflowers covering its slopes. The hill provides a habitat for various bird species, such as ravens, buzzards, and peregrine falcons, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

In addition to its natural beauty, Cairnscarrow holds historical significance. The hill is believed to have been used as a burial site during ancient times, with several cairns (piles of stones) found on its slopes. These cairns are thought to date back to the Bronze Age, adding an element of mystery and intrigue to the area.

Overall, Cairnscarrow is a captivating hill in Wigtownshire, offering both physical challenges and stunning vistas to anyone willing to explore its rugged terrain.

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Cairnscarrow Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.942937/-4.9110654 or Grid Reference NX1364. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Farm Ruins

The ruins of Inchbread farm lie at the foot of the Moors.

David Baird

Cairn on Auchmantle Fell

Originally there were two cairns on this hill. Muckle (big) cairn and Wee Cairn. Muckle Cairn used to contain a burial cist, but apparently the slabs were removed by a farmer for building material at the beginning of the last century and the cairn had been "almost entirely eradicated" when the inventory for the Royal Commission on Historical Monuments was compiled for Wigtownshire in 1911. This may actually be the remains of Wee Cairn, which was noted at the time to be "surmounted by a modern beacon."

David Baird

Looking towards Drumminnoch

From the northern slopes of Auchmantle Fell. A green patch in the distance, more or less in the middle of the picture, marks the site of an old abandoned farm called Auchie (gaelic achadh - a cultivated field).

David Baird

Craigbower

These are the ruins of a small cottage, unnamed on the present day 1:25000 OS map but marked as Craigbower on an 1848 map. The surrounding land has evidence of extensive cultivation ridges. Luce Bay can just be seen in the distance.

David Baird

Ruins of Craigbower

David Baird

Cultivation ridges near Craigbower

These cultivation ridges were probably formed in the 18th or 19th century, and were known as lazy beds. By the 19th century they were used mainly for growing potatoes.

David Baird