Perched within the Pentland Hills of Midlothian stands South Black Hill. It is a significant summit. South Black Hill rises to 563 meters that is 1847 feet. This peak is a mile west of Silverburn. It is also 3 miles northeast of Carlops.
South Black Hill is surrounded by other notable peaks. West Kip, East Kip, and Scald Law create a striking chain behind it. Scald Law is the highest in the Pentlands. Black Hill rises to 501 meters. That is 1642 feet, 2 miles to the north.
Let’s journey back to the mid-19th century. Bronze guns were reportedly found near Eastside Farm. The location was between the Kips, Braid Law, and South Black Hills. Sadly the whereabouts of these guns remain unknown.
In 2002, a Neolithic ax was discovered. It was 500 meters northeast of South Black Hill. This ax measured 115 cm long.
Imagine a cross once stood along the path between East Kip and Scald Law. It was on the slopes of South Black Hill. A local farmer removed its 90 m × 85 m foundation in the 19th century.
Now envision the southeastern flank of South Black Hill. Here lie the remains of an Iron Age hillfort. This fort saw use and expansion through the Roman occupation of Britain. Initially, a wooden palisade secured the oval complex. It measured 230 m × 175 m in diameter. Later, a second palisade was added.
A Roman road once ran near this complex. Its exact course and destination remain unclear. It is believed to be overlaid by the modern A702. The A702 runs along the eastern flank of the Pentland Hills.
South Black Hill itself is part of the Pentland Hills Volcanic Formation. This formation also includes Scald Hill and Carnethy Hill. These volcanic rocks are more resistant to erosion. This creates the steeper, craggier hillsides we see today.
The Pentland Hills Regional Park was established in 1986. It covers 90 square kilometers at the northern end of the hills. This park is used for various recreational activities. These include hillwalking, mountain biking, and horse riding.
Consider the etymology of the name “Pentland”. It first appeared around 1050. It likely comes from Brythonic words “pen” and “llan.” These mean “the Llan at the top of the hills”. The name is unrelated to the Pentland Firth.
The Pentland Hills have a rich history. There is evidence of prehistoric settlement here. The hills were likely settled and defended by the Votadini. They were a Celtic people known to the Romans.
South Black Hill stands as a silent witness. It has seen centuries of human activity. From ancient tools to Roman roads. From forgotten crosses to modern-day hikers. South Black Hill embodies the enduring spirit of the Pentland Hills. As you stand here take a moment to appreciate the layers of history beneath your feet.