NJ6822 : Prehistoric Ramparts on Mither Tap

Mither Tap

518m Elevation
90m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NJ6822 : Prehistoric Ramparts on Mither Tap

Anne Burgess Photo source

Explore routes near Mither Tap

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

Deeside Way

69.8 km Easy

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Route planning notes

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

Bennachie Visitor Centre Route

This popular route starts at the Bennachie Visitor Centre and follows the well-maintained trail through woodland before ascending to Mither Tap. It offers excellent views of Aberdeenshire and passes several interpretive signs about the hill's history.

7.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Donview Circular Route

A scenic circular route starting from the Donview car park. This trail climbs through the tranquil Craigshannoch woods and skirts the summit of Mither Tap. Ideal for those looking for a quieter path with beautiful forest and open moorland views.

9 km ~3 hours Moderate

Rowantree Car Park Route

Starting at Rowantree car park, this direct route to Mither Tap is shorter but steeper, making it a great choice for those looking for a quick ascent. The trail passes through heather-covered hillsides and reaches the summit with its iconic Iron Age fort.

5.5 km ~2 hours Moderate

Back o' Bennachie Route

A less-frequented trail beginning at the Back o' Bennachie car park. This route ascends through forested paths and open moorland, reaching Mither Tap via Oxen Craig, the highest point on Bennachie. A great option for those seeking a more challenging hike.

10 km ~4 hours Challenging

Millstone Hill and Mither Tap Loop

This longer loop begins at the Bennachie Centre and includes a detour over Millstone Hill before ascending Mither Tap. The route offers varied terrain, stunning views, and a chance to explore additional peaks in the Bennachie range.

12 km ~5 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Dodd Highland Five Subhump

Elevation

518m

1,699 ft

Prominence

90m

Coordinates

57.2910, -2.5288

NJ682223

OS Map

38

Explorer: OL62E 420E 421W

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent granite outcrop and a large stone cairn, with breathtaking panoramic views extending in all directions, making it a popular spot for a photo op.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some exposed areas particularly near the summit.

Mither Tap is primarily composed of granite, offering a rugged landscape that has stood the test of time. The ancient rocks here are remnants of a volcanic landscape, showcasing beautiful geological features that tell a story of the Earth's history.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the rolling hills of Aberdeenshire, the distant Grampian Mountains, and on clear days, even the North Sea.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Mither' translates to 'Mother' in Scots, possibly signifying the mountain as a nurturing figure among the hills.

Historical Significance

Mither Tap has long been a site of significance for local folklore and is steeped in history, with nearby archaeological sites indicating human presence for thousands of years.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Bennachie Centre car park, which offers ample parking and facilities. Arrive early to snag a spot in the busy peak seasons!

Public Transport

Regular bus services from Aberdeen to nearby Insch, followed by a short taxi ride to the Bennachie Centre.

Nearby Facilities

The Bennachie Centre provides toilets, a café, and a shop for maps and souvenirs. Perfect for refueling before or after your hike!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of loose rocks on the summit approach, and expect changing weather conditions that can catch the unwary hiker out.

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 Mither Tap?

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

Are there other walkers around Mither Tap?

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 Mither Tap search or of course create your own walk for Mither Tap

Can I organise a walk to Mither Tap?

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 Mither Tap.

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 Mither Tap?

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 Mither Tap 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: NJ682223

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