Cushat Law
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Cushat Law
Nestled in the Southern Uplands of Scotland, Cushat Law (582 m) beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its lush landscape and welcoming trails. Just a stone's throw away from the busy market town of Moffat, it's a perfect spot for a day adventure.
Geology
Cushat Law is a testament to time, primarily composed of sedimentary rocks from the Carboniferous period, mainly sandstone and shale. The undulating terrain has been shaped by glacial activity, resulting in the exquisite rolling hills that visitors marvel at today.
Access
Easily accessible, the best way to start is from the small parking area just off the A708. If you're relying on public transport, you might find it a bit hit or miss, so have a plan B ready!
Routes
The primary route up Cushat Law is straightforward and accommodates moderate hikers. It begins from the A708, winding gently up through heather-clad slopes. The hike covers roughly 7.5 km, and should take around 2.5 hours, allowing plenty of time to stop for a breather (and a snack).
Summit Features
Reaching the summit, you'll be greeted by a grand cairn—ideal for photo ops and feeling triumphant. There's also a rocky outcrop rewarding your efforts with breathtaking views.
Terrain
The terrain is delightfully mixed, predominantly grassy with occasional rocky segments. Do keep an eye out for patches of bog, as they have a knack for claiming unsuspecting boots!
Views
From the top, the panoramic vistas are simply stunning. Look out for the Moffat Hills to your north, and if the weather is clear, you might just glimpse the iconic peaks of the Lake District to the south. Spring and autumn really bring out the best in this landscape, so time your visit wisely!
Hazards
While the route is quite safe, always be prepared for quick weather changes—a warm sunny day can swiftly turn into a hilltop gale! And beware the muddy patches after a good rain.
Nearby Summits
Don’t stop at just Cushat Law; explore nearby summits like Baddinsgill Hill and Wether Hill, each providing its own unique views and experiences.
Conclusion
With its charming trails, picturesque views, and the spirit of the Scottish Highlands, Cushat Law is a must-visit for any walker. Just remember, the best stories often start with a little adventure, so what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the trail!
Explore routes near Cushat Law
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.
Linhope Rig Ju88 crash site from Hartside
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Great Standrop and Little Standrop from Linhope (Ingram)
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Hedgehope Hill from Linhope
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Linhope Spout from Hartside
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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.
Cushat Law from the A708
A well-trodden route starting from the A708, providing a gradual ascent through heather and bracken. Ideal for a relaxed day out in the hills.
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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NT9313 : Old Boundary Marker on Cushat Law, Alnham Parish
Milestone Society
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NT9313 : Boundary Stone on Cushat Law
Geoff Holland
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NT9213 : Cushat Law
Pete Hawthorn
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NT9213 : Cushat Law from Kidland Forest
James T M Towill
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NT9213 : Cairn, Cushat Law
Michael Graham
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NT9213 : On Cushat Law
Michael Graham
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NT9213 : Cushat Law from Kidland Forest
James T M Towill
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NT9213 : Summit of Cushat Law with view towards The Cheviot
Colin Park
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NT9213 : Shelter Cairn, Cushat Law
Geoff Holland
NT9213 : Cushat Law
Geoff Holland
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
616m
2,022 ft
Prominence
149m
Coordinates
55.4176, -2.1151
NT928137
OS Map
80
Explorer: OL16E
At the Summit
The summit features a sizable, well-constructed cairn which serves as a perfect place to take a breather and enjoy the views. There’s also a small rock outcrop that offers a unique photo opportunity.
Terrain & Geology
The top of Cushat Law is primarily composed of sedimentary rocks, particularly sandstone and shale, which were formed during the Carboniferous period. The surrounding landscape features glacial deposits, yielding lush, rolling hills.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can see the expansive valleys of the Southern Uplands, the Moffat Hills to the north, and on a clear day, even the outline of the Lake District to the south.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Cushat' is believed to derive from the Scots Gaelic 'Cùis', meaning 'a hiding place', likely referencing the numerous deer that have called these hills home.
Historical Significance
Cushat Law is part of the long-standing cultural landscape of the Southern Uplands, often frequented by walkers, and is mentioned in various local folklore.
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 parking area just off the A708, approximately 1 km south of the start of the route. Ensure your parking does not obstruct any gate access.
Public Transport
Bus service from Moffat operates occasionally, but check the schedule as it may not be frequent. Expect to do a bit of walking to reach the trailhead.
Nearby Facilities
Moffat has several cafes, shops, and toilets available to freshen up after your hike. Don't forget to grab a slice of cake to reward yourself!
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Beware of sudden weather changes, as the hills can be very unpredictable. Some sections can be muddy, especially after rainfall, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
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 Cushat Law?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cushat Law through the maps
Are there other walkers around Cushat 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 Cushat Law search or of course create your own walk for Cushat Law
Can I organise a walk to Cushat 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 Cushat 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 Cushat 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 Cushat 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: NT928137
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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