Black Hill

Hill, Mountain in Fife

Scotland

Black Hill

Remains of Pitcairlie Toll House Hidden from the B936, but visible from the side road. Close to the Fife / Perth boundary. Originally served the Pitcairley Turnpike Trust.

Milestone Society National ID: FF.PIT — Remains of Pitcairlie Toll House Credit: Paul Hornby

Black Hill is a prominent hill located in the region of Fife, Scotland. Standing at an elevation of 522 meters (1,713 feet), it is recognized as one of the highest hills in the area. The hill lies within the Lomond Hills Regional Park, a picturesque landscape known for its rolling hills, rugged terrain, and stunning panoramic views.

Black Hill is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts due to its accessibility and captivating scenery. The ascent to the summit is relatively moderate, with well-defined paths leading to the top. From there, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside, including the nearby Lomond Hills and the Firth of Tay.

The hill is predominantly covered in heather, creating a beautiful purple carpet during the summer months. Its slopes are also home to a variety of wildlife, including red grouse, mountain hares, and numerous bird species, making it a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

In addition to its natural beauty, Black Hill also has historical significance. The remains of an Iron Age hillfort can be found near the summit, serving as a reminder of the area's ancient past. These archaeological remains add an intriguing element to the hill, attracting those interested in Scotland's rich heritage.

Overall, Black Hill in Fife offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and historical significance. Its accessibility, stunning views, and diverse wildlife make it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.

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Black Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.32131/-3.2183558 or Grid Reference NO2414. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Remains of Pitcairlie Toll House

Hidden from the B936, but visible from the side road. Close to the Fife / Perth boundary. Originally served the Pitcairley Turnpike Trust. Milestone Society National ID: FF.PIT

Paul Hornby

Abdie Parish Kirk

The B-listed (LB2560 Link

) kirk dates from ca. 1827 and replaced the medieval kirk a few hundred metres to the south east. The Italianate bellcote is unusual.

Bill Harrison

Abdie old kirk

The 13th Century kirk is a scheduled monument (SM825 Link

) but the listing provides no details whatsoever. Thankfully, the Canmore listing (30063 Link

) comes to the rescue with a very detailed description. The church was abandoned and soon fell into ruin when the replacement kirk was built a few hundred metres to the north east in 1827.

Bill Harrison

Buildings at the entrance to Abdie old kirk

The farther building is said to be a " session/offertory house" and the nearer is a "hearse or gig-house and loft". The ensemble is B-listed (LB2561 Link

). An enormous yew tree looms behind them.

Bill Harrison

Minor road to Abdie old kirk

Bill Harrison

Balfour-Napier monument, Abdie old kirk

Arms of Balfour of Denmiln (Or, on a chevron sable between three trefoils slipped vert an otter's head erased argent) impaling Napier (Argent a saltire engrailed between four roses gules barbed vert) commemorating the marriage between Michael Balfour and Katherine Napier sometime before 1652, when Katherine died. The memorial is almost completely eroded but the arms at least were more discernible in 1930 and their details were entered into the ‘Inventory of Monuments and Constructions in the Counties of Five, Kinross, and Clackmannan', published by RCAHMS (the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland) published in 1933,

Bill Harrison