Cairnie Hill
Good walks are even better shared.
NO2715 : Cairnie Hill summit
Neil MacLeod Photo source
Explore routes near Cairnie Hill
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Loch Leven: Kinross Pier to RSPB Loch Leven Heritage Trail
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Tentsmuir Forest: Ice House Trail
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Forfar to Lunanhead: East Road and the Ditches Walk
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Devilla Forest: Bordie Loch, Moor Loch and Peppermill Dam Circuit
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Cairnie Farm Route
This route starts at Cairnie Farm, winding through lush farmland before ascending the gentle slopes of the hill.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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NO2715 : Cairnie Hill summit
Neil MacLeod
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NO2715 : Cairnie Hill
Rude Health
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NO2715 : Uncultivated land on Cairnie Hill
Trevor Littlewood
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
229m
751 ft
Prominence
150m
Coordinates
56.3263, -3.1670
NO279154
OS Map
59
Explorer: 370
At the Summit
At the summit, expect to find a modest cairn and a trig point that has seen better days. It’s not exactly Everest, but it offers a fine place for a selfie!
Terrain & Geology
Cairnie Hill is primarily composed of sedimentary rock, indicative of the region's ancient marine environments. You'll find layers of sandstone and shale, making for interesting geological features as you ascend.
Views & Scenery
On a clear day, the panoramic views extend over the Vale of Strathmore and the distant peaks of the Angus Glens.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Cairnie' is derived from the Scots Gaelic 'Cairn', meaning 'a heap of stones', likely referring to the summit cairn.
Historical Significance
Cairnie Hill has long been a local landmark, serving as a navigational point for travellers and offering rich views of the surrounding area.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
There is a small car park near Cairnie Farm that can accommodate several cars. Arrive early during weekends to secure a spot!
Public Transport
The nearest bus stop is in the village of Meigle, about 3 km from the trailhead. Check local schedules for service times.
Nearby Facilities
While there are no facilities directly on Cairnie Hill, Forfar offers cafes, restaurants, and public restrooms.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Occasional slippery rocks, particularly after rain. Watch your step!
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 Cairnie Hill?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cairnie Hill through the maps
Are there other walkers around Cairnie Hill?
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 Cairnie Hill search or of course create your own walk for Cairnie Hill
Can I organise a walk to Cairnie Hill?
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 Cairnie Hill.
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 Cairnie Hill?
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 Cairnie Hill 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
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: NO279154
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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