Bennan Hill

Hill, Mountain in Ayrshire

Scotland

Bennan Hill

In the Garden of Eden at Straiton There has been a lot of lichen growth on this well-known old stone since the 2008 photo was taken and the lower part is no longer visible. See <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/991771">NS3804 : An old gravestone in St Cuthbert's Parish Church</a>. The carving shows Adam and Eve beside the Tree of Life with the serpent twined round the trunk. Old Scottish graveyards contain forty-five examples of Adam &amp; Eve stones, representing the first indication of man’s mortality in the Bible. — In the Garden of Eden at Straiton Credit: Mary and Angus Hogg

Bennan Hill, located in Ayrshire, Scotland, is a prominent hill that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Rising to an elevation of approximately 460 meters (1,509 feet), it is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Situated within the Galloway Forest Park, which is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife, Bennan Hill is a magnificent sight to behold. The hill is characterized by its gently sloping grassy slopes and rocky outcrops, making it an ideal location for hiking and hillwalking.

The ascent to the summit of Bennan Hill is relatively moderate, making it accessible to people of varying fitness levels. Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views of the rolling hills, lush green valleys, and shimmering lochs that stretch as far as the eye can see.

The hill is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, with heather and wildflowers adorning the landscape during the summer months. Birdwatchers will be delighted to spot various species, including buzzards, kestrels, and ravens, soaring in the skies above.

For those seeking a longer adventure, Bennan Hill is surrounded by an extensive network of walking trails, including the Southern Upland Way, which passes nearby. This provides opportunities for further exploration of the area's natural wonders, including nearby waterfalls and ancient woodlands.

Overall, Bennan Hill presents an enchanting experience for visitors, combining the allure of nature with breathtaking vistas, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

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Bennan Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.297745/-4.5545617 or Grid Reference NS3703. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

In the Garden of Eden at Straiton

There has been a lot of lichen growth on this well-known old stone since the 2008 photo was taken and the lower part is no longer visible. See NS3804 : An old gravestone in St Cuthbert's Parish Church. The carving shows Adam and Eve beside the Tree of Life with the serpent twined round the trunk. Old Scottish graveyards contain forty-five examples of Adam & Eve stones, representing the first indication of man’s mortality in the Bible.

Mary and Angus Hogg

A millerâs gravestone

A closer look at NS3804 : Stones in Straiton Graveyard showing a figure working cogged wheels.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Another farmerâs grave at Straiton

A closer look at the left-hand stone in NS3804 : Farmers' Graves at Straiton showing a crudely carved winged soul above the inscription.

Mary and Angus Hogg

A farmerâs grave at Straiton

A closer look at the right-hand stone in NS3804 : Farmers' Graves at Straiton which shows a crudely carved winged soul above the inscription. There’s also a grotesque skull on the left, crossed bones on the right and an hour-glass in the middle to remind observers that their time is running out too. The carvings on the lower section are obscured by the grass.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Straiton Church and graveyard

There was a parish church here in medieval times but most of the current building was erected in 1758 with restoration work undertaken in 1901. The cross on the south-facing gable holds a small carving of the Carrick Cross NS3804 : The Carrick Cross on Straiton church roof. The graveyard contains several interesting old symbolic stones, including a fine Adam & Eve stone. NS3804 : In the Garden of Eden at Straiton

Mary and Angus Hogg

Straiton Church view

An unusual view of Straiton Church taken from the adjoining field. There was a parish church here in medieval times but most of the current building was erected in 1758 with restoration work undertaken in 1901. The graveyard contains several interesting old symbolic stones.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Crossing the Water of Girvan

A touch of autumn colour on the Village Ramble around Straiton where the track crosses then water of Girvan. For a summer view, see NS3804 : Across The Water Of Girvan

Mary and Angus Hogg

Entering Straiton

Another small village we entered to go and see the former headmasters house of one of our friends former schools.

Malcolm Neal

Straiton Village

A small village with houses typical of the area.

Malcolm Neal

Steep ground at Craigencallie

Gordon Brown

Minor road below Craigencallie

Gordon Brown

Minor road junction near Dyke

Gordon Brown

Covenanter's Grave

The grave of Thomas McHaffie, Covenanter, in Straiton kirkyard.

Rab McMurdo

The Buck at Straiton

This is a fantastic little coffee shop and eat in snack shop. The toasted sandwiches and home made cakes are out of this world. A must stop for anyone passing through this lovely little town.

David Neale