Blackford Hill

Hill, Mountain in Midlothian

Scotland

Blackford Hill

Braidburn Valley Park - 1 April 2011 Braidburn Valley Park and the Pentland Hills - more flowers, less snow, and less sun, than on the same date a year ago - <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1780682">NT2469 : Braidburn Valley Park - 1 April 2010</a>. — Braidburn Valley Park - 1 April 2011 Credit: M J Richardson

Blackford Hill is a prominent landmark located in Midlothian, Scotland. With an elevation of 164 meters (538 feet), it is considered a hill rather than a mountain. Situated in the southern part of Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, Blackford Hill offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.

The hill is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It is encompassed by Blackford Hill Nature Reserve, which covers an area of approximately 17 hectares (42 acres). This nature reserve provides a peaceful retreat for visitors and locals alike, offering a tranquil environment for walking, hiking, and birdwatching.

One of the main features of Blackford Hill is the iconic Blackford Hill Observatory. Built in 1896, it was originally used for astronomical purposes, but today it serves as a popular venue for public and educational events. The observatory hosts regular stargazing sessions, allowing visitors to explore the night sky with the help of knowledgeable astronomers.

Additionally, Blackford Hill is home to the Royal Observatory Edinburgh, which specializes in astrophysics and space research. The observatory conducts vital scientific research and plays a significant role in the study of the universe.

Overall, Blackford Hill is a cherished natural and scientific landmark in Midlothian. It offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a wealth of astronomical knowledge, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in the wonders of the universe.

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Blackford Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.923045/-3.1946907 or Grid Reference NT2570. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Braidburn Valley Park - 1 April 2011

Braidburn Valley Park and the Pentland Hills - more flowers, less snow, and less sun, than on the same date a year ago - NT2469 : Braidburn Valley Park - 1 April 2010.

M J Richardson

Braidburn Valley Park

A view looking uphill from the Braidburn towards Comiston Road and The Braid Hills Hotel

M J Richardson

Braidburn Valley Park in June

Looking to Swanston and the Pentland Hills. For views from the same spot under different weather conditions see NT2469 : Braidburn Valley Park - 1 April 2010 and NT2469 : Braidburn Valley Park - 1 April 2011.

M J Richardson

Braidburn Valley Park Cherry Trees

An avenue planted by the Girl Guides in 1935, part of a trefoil-shaped planting to the east of the Braidburn valley. Now over 70 years old, some are in poor condition and a replacement programme was started in 2008. 80 trees were felled in 2009 and 100 new trees planted in 2010 to commemorate the Centenary of Girl Guiding. Many of the old trees had rot, but wood from some was made into three benches now cited in the park NT2469 : Braidburn Valley Park Cherry Tree Bench.

M J Richardson

Braidburn Valley Park Cherry Tree Bench

One of three made by Julian Angus, Cousland, Midlothian, out of wood from the 70+-year-old cherry trees planted by Girl Guides in 1935, which are nearing the end of their life and are being replaced NT2469 : Braidburn Valley Park Cherry Trees. I think the two fallen rowans in the background are not the result of vandalism, but the strong winds that caused problems in Edinburgh and eastern Scotland the week before [23 May].

M J Richardson

Police box at Braid Hills Approach

Presumably surplus to requirements, and rather crumbly in appearance. Not one of Dr Who's. Somewhat smarter in 2020 after a makeover NT2469 : 'SwimEasy' Police Box Museum, Braid Hills Road.

M J Richardson

Houses on Braid Hills Approach

A quiet road just off Braid Hills Road, leading up to the Braid Hills Golf Courses and club houses.

M J Richardson

Walker on the Braid Hills

The same one as seen in NT2569 : Walker on the Braid Hills, from a very similar spot, but 6 months later under somewhat different weather conditions.

M J Richardson

Solar Panels on Buckstone Terrace

Not sure what the pay-back time will be for these panels - facing almost due west [260 degrees] does not seem to be the optimum position for efficiency.

M J Richardson

Bring out your cardboard!

Alternate Wednesdays are red box recycling days on Braid Mount. Cardboard in the box, plastic bottles etc. in a separate bag [but mixed in the collection truck - I wonder why that is?]. Looking almost due north over the Braid Burn valley to Edinburgh Castle, 3.8 km away.

M J Richardson

Elf Loch

A small loch viewed from a small hill on Mortonhall Golf Course.

Callum Black

Earth Stars [Geastrum triplex]

Two of a group found by a path leading into the Braid Hills from Braid Road.

M J Richardson

Earth Stars

A general habitat view of a second patch of Geastrum triplex, about 100m east of NT2469 : Earth Stars [Geastrum triplex]. A good collection - eleven fruit bodies are present in this view.

M J Richardson