NT1961 : On Scald Law

Scald Law

579m Elevation
314m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NT1961 : On Scald Law

Richard Webb Photo source

Explore routes near Scald Law

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.

Classic Circuit via The Howe

This popular circular route starts at the Flotterstone car park (grid ref NT234631). Follow the well-maintained path along Glencorse Reservoir before ascending steadily via The Howe. From here, a clear path leads you up the southwestern flank of Scald Law. The summit offers stunning views across the Pentland Hills and beyond. Descend via the ridge towards South Black Hill and return to the car park through the valley.

8.5 km ~3 hours Moderate

Direct Ascent from The Howe

For a shorter and more direct ascent, begin at the Flotterstone car park (grid ref NT234631) and proceed along the Glencorse Reservoir path until The Howe. From here, take the steep path directly up Scald Law's western flank. This route is more challenging due to its steeper gradient but rewards walkers with quick access to the summit. Retrace your steps to return.

6 km ~2.5 hours Challenging

Scald Law Ridge Walk

This linear route begins at the car park near the Hillend Ski Centre (grid ref NT251669). Ascend Caerketton Hill and follow the ridge over Allermuir Hill and Castlelaw Hill before reaching Scald Law. This route showcases the best of the Pentland ridge and offers panoramic views throughout. You can either retrace your steps or arrange transport for a one-way hike.

10 km ~4 hours Moderate

Family-Friendly Route from Bavelaw

Start at the Bavelaw car park (grid ref NT166608) near Balerno. Follow the path through Green Cleugh valley, gradually ascending until you reach the saddle between Scald Law and East Kip. From there, a short but steep climb leads to the summit. Return via the same route, enjoying the peaceful valley views.

7 km ~2.5 hours Easy to Moderate

Extended Pentland Traverse

For experienced walkers seeking a longer day out, this route covers multiple summits in the Pentlands. Start at Flotterstone car park (grid ref NT234631) and ascend Turnhouse Hill, Carnethy Hill, and Scald Law. Continue over East Kip and West Kip before descending to Threipmuir Reservoir. The route requires good navigation skills and stamina.

16 km ~6 hours Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Donald Dewey

Elevation

579m

1,900 ft

Prominence

314m

Coordinates

55.8362, -3.2922

NT191610

OS Map

65 66

Explorer: 344

At the Summit

At the summit, hikers are greeted by a substantial stone cairn, providing an ideal spot for a quick picnic or a well-deserved breather while enjoying the panoramic views.

Terrain & Geology

Primarily grassy with rocky sections the route can be boggy in places especially after rainfall. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended!

Composed primarily of volcanic rock with underlying sedimentary layers, Scald Law showcases a rich geological history. Its craggy outcrops and age-old formations offer a fascinating glimpse into the Earth's past.

Views & Scenery

Incredible vistas of Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and other nearby peaks such as East and West Kip. On a clear day, you might even spot the North Sea!

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Scald Law' is derived from Old Norse, meaning 'the hill of the skalds', reflecting the cultural tapestry woven through the history of the region.

Historical Significance

Scald Law holds historical significance in Scottish culture as part of the Pentland Hills range, which has been a focal point for outdoor activities and a natural border throughout history.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Flotterstone Car Park, which offers ample parking and serves as a great starting point for various routes in the area.

Public Transport

Buses run from Edinburgh to the Flotterstone area. Check local schedules for up-to-date information and safe travel options.

Nearby Facilities

While there are no facilities at the summit, the Flotterstone area has toilets and several nearby cafés where you can grab a bite before or after your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for sudden weather changes, especially at higher elevations. The terrain can be slippery when wet or icy, and visibility can drop quickly.

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 Scald Law?

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

Are there other walkers around Scald 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 Scald Law search or of course create your own walk for Scald Law

Can I organise a walk to Scald 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 Scald 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 Scald 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 Scald 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

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NT191610

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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