Hiking Highlight
Recommended by 18 hikers
A prominent granite volcanic plug that rears up above the A71, Loudoun Hill is a gloriously accessible peak that has witnessed at least one famous battle, with folklore telling of yet another. Hikes to Loudoun Hill are brief but challenging, perfect if you’re up for a short but rewarding ramble.
On May 10th 1307, King Robert I of Scotland won a vicious battle against an English army numbering five times as many soldiers. He studied the hill’s surroundings, digging ditches and utilising the rugged, boggy terrain to his advantage. It was a tactical masterclass. According to Blind Harry’s classic poem, William Wallace also won a battle here in 1296, though historians believe this to be false.
Directly below the impressive fist of crag that makes up Loudoun Hill’s eastern aspect is an intriguing sculpture that pays homage to the two battles, named the Spirit of Scotland. The creation of artist Richard Price, it is a 16-foot (5 m) tall fabricated steel outline of William Wallace, with imagery and words in honour of the two victories. Wallace’s outline is designed in such a way that you can view the hill through the sculpture, superb foreground interest for your photos.
Most walking routes to Loudoun hill begin from a car park near the sculpture and ascend a fine trail to the summit. Optional scrambles can be tackled en route or you can take your time on the good paths.
From the trig point is a panorama of verdant green pastures and low hills. On a clear day, the Isle of Arran’s distant peaks can be made out across the Firth of Clyde, with Goatfell towering above all else.
The town of Kilmarnock is a good base for the hill, with many amenities and rail links to Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Loudoun Hill has a rich history regarding a famous battle carried out in 1307. It's also a volcanic plug and generally lovely to look at! For the adventurous hiker, there is an option to climb to the 316m summit, however this is steep and rocky so exercise with caution.
March 8, 2023
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