Image of Carnethy Hill (Cairn(s)) by GLADMAN

The very substantial cairn gracing South Black Hill... apparently not considered of ancient origin. Needless to say, I’d like to see the evidence for this.

Image credit: Robert Gladstone

GLADMAN Jun 23, 2012

thelonious Jun 24, 2012 09:40

I didn't see this one when I was there. Looks very similar to the one on Carnethy Hill. I sometimes wonder whether unless it's marked as ancient on the 1st edition OS map that's it.

GLADMAN Jun 24, 2012 11:45

I did a circuit from the layby on the A702, so a descent past this fitted in nicely - apart from missing the hillfort at the bottom, that is! I understand there are a number of examples of large cairns built upon Scottish hilltops in relatively modern times... guess as a clan chief memorial/power thing? However I'd assume most of these would leave some surviving construction record, or at least folk memory as evidence? Perhaps there's something for this?

Although by no means as massive as the Carnethy cairn this is nonetheless very substantial and set in a classiic 'spur end' Bronze Age position. I'll pop a few more images on (if the Eds are OK with that). It would be great if you or another member end up passing by... for further opinion.

thelonious Aug 8, 2014 20:20

Hi Gladman. I finally managed to get round to visiting this cairn today. We did a similar walk to you. It was good to be back on the Pentlands again. Even a bit of sunshine. The cairn on South Black Hill is very intriguing. I can't believe I missed it the last time I was on Scald Law. It's pretty big. Certainly looks the part, big footprint and fantastic location. It does seem to fit nicely with the definite ancient cairns on the Pentlands. Would love to know more about it. Thanks for giving me a nice reason to head back here. A grand day out.

GLADMAN Aug 9, 2014 00:31

Nice one. I was looking from Castle Law back in May and they really are attractive hills. Bit like the Wicklows are to Dublin.

Unless there is an excavation report or reference to its historic construction somewhere proving it's modern I'd reckon it's a case of RCAHMS not getting round to visiting. Many of their field reports are very old, after all.