Black Law
Good walks are even better shared.
Explore routes near Black Law
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Kielder Forest - 50 Rocks of Northumberland inspired
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Byrness to Echo Crags
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Byrness Woodlands Circular
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Windy Gyle Circular from Coquet Valley
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Black Law Circular
A popular circular route starting from the Threipmuir Reservoir, taking you through rolling hills and offering fantastic views of the surrounding landscape.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
698m
2,290 ft
Prominence
103m
Coordinates
55.5388, -3.2332
NT222279
OS Map
73
Explorer: 337
At the Summit
At the summit of Black Law, you will find a modest cairn along with a trig point which stands as a sentinel over the picturesque landscape. Don't forget to capture a few snaps; the views are worth bragging about.
Terrain & Geology
Black Law is primarily made up of ancient volcanic rock formations, notable for their resilience against weathering. The rugged landscape presents a mixture of heather and grass interspersed with rocky outcrops that tell a story of aeons past.
Views & Scenery
On a clear day, you'll see the iconic Edinburgh skyline to the east, the impressive Firth of Forth and the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders stretching out to the south.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Black Law' likely stems from the dark basalt and volcanic rock that comprises this notable peak.
Historical Significance
Black Law has been a historical landmark for centuries, often used as a navigation point for shepherds and travellers traversing the Pentland Hills region.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
Threipmuir Reservoir car park offers ample space for vehicles, but it can fill up quickly on weekends during the summer months.
Public Transport
Public transport options include the bus service from Edinburgh to Penicuik, followed by a short taxi ride to the reservoir.
Nearby Facilities
Facilities around Penicuik include several cafes and shops where you can grab a crucial post-hike coffee or bite to eat. However, on the mountain itself, you'll have to rely on your own packed goodies.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- While the route is generally safe, be cautious of sudden weather changes, and always keep an eye on the path, particularly in wet conditions where it can become slippery.
General Safety Tips
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
- Let someone know your planned route
- Take a map, compass, and GPS device
- Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch
Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Black Law?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Black Law through the maps
Are there other walkers around Black Law?
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Black Law search or of course create your own walk for Black Law
Can I organise a walk to Black Law?
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Black Law.
How do I find a walk up this hill?
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Can I suggest a new route up Black Law?
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Black Law here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid reference: NT222279
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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