Ward Hill is the highest point on the island of Hoy, located in the Orkney archipelago in Scotland. Rising to a height of 481 meters (1,578 feet), it is considered a hill rather than a mountain. Despite its modest elevation, Ward Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The hill's terrain is characterized by a mixture of heather-covered slopes, rocky outcrops, and grassy patches. Its distinctive shape, with a steep southern face and a gentler incline on the northern side, is the result of glacial activity during the last ice age.
Reaching the summit of Ward Hill involves a challenging but rewarding climb. Several well-marked trails lead hikers through the rugged terrain, with some sections requiring scrambling over rocks and boulders. The ascent may take a few hours, depending on the chosen route and individual fitness levels.
Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with stunning views over the surrounding islands, including the dramatic cliffs of St. John's Head to the west. On clear days, it is even possible to see as far as the Scottish mainland.
Ward Hill is also home to a variety of plant and animal species, including nesting seabirds such as puffins and fulmars. The hillside is adorned with colorful wildflowers during the summer months, offering a picturesque backdrop to the hike.
Overall, Ward Hill offers a challenging yet accessible outdoor experience, combining stunning natural beauty with a sense of adventure.
If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.
Images are sourced within 2km of 59.152259/-3.0796221 or Grid Reference HY3829. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.
Ward Hill is located at Grid Ref: HY3829 (Lat: 59.152259, Lng: -3.0796221)
Unitary Authority: Orkney Islands
Police Authority: Highlands and Islands
///skims.obstruct.coping. Near Evie, Orkney Islands
The Knowe of Swandro is an archaeological site located on the Bay of Swandro on Rousay in Orkney, Scotland. The site consists of a 5000-year-old Neolithic...
Muckle Water is a long, narrow fresh water loch on Ward Hill on Rousay, Orkney, Scotland. It is the biggest loch on the island and is popular for fishing...
Midhowe Chambered Cairn is a large Neolithic chambered cairn located on the south shore of the island of Rousay, Orkney, Scotland. The name "Midhowe" comes...
Midhowe Broch () is an Iron Age broch located on the west coast of the island of Rousay in the Orkney Islands, in Scotland. == Description == Midhowe...
Leave your review of Ward Hill below (or comments, questions and feedback).