KINNOULL HILL

Overview

 
Kinnoull in Gaelic means "the head of the rock". Kinnoull Hill is the highest point in the town of Perth. Located at the southern end of the Sidlaw Hills, near the convergence zone between the Southern Uplands and the Grampian Highlands of Scotland.

Perth has always been known as the gateway to the highlands, and Kinnoull as it's gatekeeper. Approaching the 370 million year old crags from the south, you will notice their bold prominence over the surrounding hills. Kinnoull Hill has always been of strategic importance, since Perth was the site of the medieval capital of Scotland. At the summit you will find Kinnoull Tower. Built as a romantic folly in the 18th century to resemble the battlements on the river Rhine.

The Witches Alter

 
Within view of the summit is what we like to call "The Witches Alter". The stone table was built by the 9th Earl of Kinnoull, over 200 years ago as a point of interest map. The vandalizing youth over the centuries, along with heavy erosion, has given it a life of it's own.

Scone Palace

 
Any trip to Kinnoull should incorporate a visit to Scone Palace, the original home of the royal Stone of Destiny. The palace grounds possess some of the most beautiful themed forests and gardens i have ever seen in my life. A collection of exotic plant species from around the world are nurtured there. You will find rhododendrons and azaleas the size of a small home. For the young ones to enjoy, they also have several tree houses and a zip line.

Getting There

It seems like most major roads in Scotland eventually lead to Perth. Hiking up Kinnoull Hill from it's base near the banks of the Tay River is a 5.5 mile round trip, achieving an elevation gain of 650 feet. Make your way across the West Bridge and make a right on Gowrie St. Take your immediate left on Bowerswell Rd, which will turn into Hatton Rd. On your way up this fairly steep road you will notice many nicely manicured hill side estates. Once you reach St Mary's Monastery you are not too far from Kinnoull Hill trail. Pay attention not to miss it, this is not the main entrance to Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park. If by chance one of your hiking members is an infant or person of maturity, you might want to park your car at the Jubilee Car Park, which offers easy access to the summit. There is also bus service to the parking lot from the city center. The Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park trails are well marked and maintained.

Camping

Camping is not permitted on Kinnoull. There is camping in Old Scone, 3 miles away. Scone Camping and Caravanning Club Sites at Old Scone Perth PH26 BB , UK. Phone, 01738 552323

Red Tape

No permits are required to enter Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park.

Images

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