NT2061 : Descending Carnethy, Pentland Hills

Carnethy Hill

573m Elevation
128m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Good walks are even better shared.

NT2061 : Descending Carnethy, Pentland Hills

Jim Barton Photo source

Explore routes near Carnethy Hill

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

St Abbs Circular with seal pups at Horsecastle Bay

3.7 km ~1h Easy

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Duddo Stones (Standing Stones)

2.5 km ~1h Easy

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Hethpool Linn and Yeavering Bell from Kirknewton

10.5 km ~4h 30m Hard

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Yeavering Bell and Easter Tor Circular

7.6 km Moderate

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Carnethy Hill Circuit from the B7016

A popular circular route that begins from the B7016. It's a well-trodden path that offers stunning views.

6.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Dodd Donald Dewey

Elevation

573m

1,880 ft

Prominence

128m

Coordinates

55.8439, -3.2730

NT203619

OS Map

66

Explorer: 344

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn and a trig point, perfect for those selfie opportunities. Just be mindful not to try and claim it as your own.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with rocky outcrops offering a mix of easy walking and occasional boulders to navigate.

Carnethy Hill is primarily composed of volcanic rock from the ancient volcanic activity in the region, with a mixture of sedimentary deposits. Its rugged terrain reflects its geological history.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy views of Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding Pentland Hills. On a clear day, the distant peaks of the Scottish Highlands are visible.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Carnethy' is derived from the Gaelic 'Carn Eidhneach,' meaning 'the hill of the nettles.'

Historical Significance

Carnethy Hill has been a favourite among both local hikers and adventurous souls for generations, providing a taste of the Scottish outdoors.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small parking area at the start of the path from the B7016, capable of accommodating several vehicles. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends.

Public Transport

Regular bus services run from Edinburgh to the nearest villages. The 101 and 107 buses stop nearby, with a short walk to the start of the trail.

Nearby Facilities

There are a few small cafes in Penicuik for refreshments post-hike, along with public toilets available.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks, sudden weather changes, and slippery paths in wet conditions.

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 Carnethy Hill?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Carnethy Hill through the maps

Are there other walkers around Carnethy 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 Carnethy Hill search or of course create your own walk for Carnethy Hill

Can I organise a walk to Carnethy 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 Carnethy 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 Carnethy 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 Carnethy 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

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NT203619

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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Broad Law

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