Common Hill [Canada Hill]
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Common Hill [Canada Hill]
Common Hill, fondly known as Canada Hill, stands proudly at 480 meters in the Scottish Lowlands. This delightful summit is a Marilyn, which means it’s quite prominent relative to the land around it, inviting hikers to revel in both its charm and its views.
Geology
Nestled amongst the mix of granite, Common Hill showcases intriguing geological features. The robust granite offers a solid juxtaposition to the soft sedimentary rocks found nearby, adding layers of beauty to your trek. If you fancy yourself a geology buff, keep your eyes peeled for fossils along the path!
Routes
The most popular route is the Common Hill Circular Route. This 7.5 km loop will take approximately 2.5 hours to complete at a moderate pace. You’ll meander through lovely meadows, brave rocky patches, and maybe even dance around a few puddles if rain has decided to pay a visit!
Summit Features
Upon reaching the top, you’re greeted by a sturdy cairn and a somewhat shaky trig point that has seen better days. It’s a classic view of triumph and a perfect selfie spot, but be sure to check for the perfect angle—steep drops lurk nearby!
Terrain Type
Expect a mix of rocky and grassy paths—ideal for some scenic rambling. Fair warning though, certain areas are notoriously boggy, so it’s best to bring your wellies just in case!
Views
The panoramic views from the summit are simply breathtaking. Look towards the Southern Uplands and behold their mighty forms. If you're lucky enough to visit on a clear day, the shimmering waters of local lochs will surely steal your heart!
Best Seasons
Spring and autumn are prime times for a visit, when the weather is generally agreeable and the landscapes are vibrant.
Hazards
Keep an eye out for rapidly changing weather conditions, a common attribute of Scottish hills. The paths can become slippery, especially after a good downpour, so choose your steps wisely!
Nearby Summits
Take the opportunity to explore other summits nearby, such as Cnoc an Eas at 550 meters and the grand Merrick, which stands tall at 1234 meters. Each offers its own unique experiences and challenges!
Access
For drivers, there’s a delightful little layby off the A713 road, just 3 km from the summit. If public transport is more your style, local buses serve the area beautifully. The nearest town, Carsphairn, boasts a delightful café to refuel after your hike and a few friendly locals to share stories with.
Facilities
At the summit, you will find nothing but nature and your sense of adventure. Carsphairn, however, is well-stocked with a café and public toilets, perfect for a pre-hike pit stop!
History
The name 'Common Hill' harkens back to a time when it was a shared grazing ground. The moniker 'Canada Hill' adds a touch of mystery—some say it owes its name to settlers or even geologists from far across the ocean!
A trip to Common Hill offers not just an exhilarating hike but also a dive into the natural splendour and rich history of Scotland's landscape. So lace up those hiking boots and set off on an adventure!
Ready for a great day out? Remember, the hills are calling!
Explore routes near Common Hill [Canada Hill]
Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.
Bishop’s Glen group walk
View route
West Bay walk and talk
View route
West Bay walk and talk
View route
Greenock Cut: the full circuit from Cornalees
View route
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.
Common Hill Circular Route
A scenic loop that takes you around the base and up to the summit with stunning views of the surrounding lowlands.
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
View all
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NS0964 : Trig point at Rothesay Golf Course
John Ferguson
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NS0964 : Trig point on Rothesay Golf Course
Trevor Littlewood
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NS0964 : Common Hill - Isle of Bute
Raibeart MacAoidh
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NS1064 : Track across Rothesay Golf Course on Common Hill
Peter Wood
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NS1064 : Canada Hill - Isle of Bute
Raibeart MacAoidh
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NS0964 : The Centenary Bell - Rothesay Golf Course
Raibeart MacAoidh
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
132m
433 ft
Prominence
110m
Coordinates
55.8360, -5.0352
NS100644
OS Map
63
Explorer: 362S
At the Summit
At the top, you’ll find a substantial cairn and a rusty old trig point, slightly wobbly but full of character. Truly a tip-top spot!
Terrain & Geology
The hill is primarily composed of granite, giving it a rugged appearance. The surrounding area features sedimentary rocks that have eroded over time, enriching the soil and fostering diverse flora.
Views & Scenery
On a clear day, you can see the distant peaks of the Southern Uplands and the rolling hills of the Lowlands. Keep an eye out for the shimmering waters of nearby lochs!
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Common Hill' suggests it was once a shared space for grazing, while 'Canada Hill' may have historical links to settlers or geologists who spent time in the area.
Historical Significance
The area holds a rich history of agriculture and has been a significant route for travellers over the centuries.
Getting There & Facilities
Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.
Parking
There is a small layby off the A713 road, approximately 3 km from the summit, where you can park your car.
Public Transport
Local buses service the region, with routes running from nearby towns to the start of the trail.
Nearby Facilities
There are no facilities at the summit. However, Carsphairn has a café and public toilets.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Beware of sudden weather changes typical of Scottish hills. The paths can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Watch your step near the edges of steep drops.
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 Common Hill [Canada Hill]?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Common Hill [Canada Hill] through the maps
Are there other walkers around Common Hill [Canada 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 Common Hill [Canada Hill] search or of course create your own walk for Common Hill [Canada Hill]
Can I organise a walk to Common Hill [Canada 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 Common Hill [Canada 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 Common Hill [Canada 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 Common Hill [Canada 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
![Common Hill [Canada Hill] location map](https://cdn.walkmates.com/hill-maps/hill-sources/4864/55.83599_-5.03516.png)
Grid reference: NS100644
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
Hills within 30 km
Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.
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