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All the United Kingdom Scotland West Lothian Cairnpapple Hill

Cairnpapple Hill

This hill nestled in the Scottish lowlands was a ritual site for over 4,000 years.

West Lothian, Scotland

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Sandra McGhee
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Cairnpapple Hill   ssm67alba / Atlas Obscura User
Cairnpapple Hill   ssm67alba / Atlas Obscura User
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Cairnpapple radio mast and WWII Nissen Hut.   EwanMH / Atlas Obscura User
Cairnpapple Hill, 26/12/17.   EwanMH / Atlas Obscura User
Interior   SEANETTA / Atlas Obscura User
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Pagan/ Christian burial plots   SEANETTA / Atlas Obscura User
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Views from the summit.   ssm67alba / Atlas Obscura User
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About

Cairnpapple Hill stands 312 meters above sea level and on a bright, clear day, boasts spectacular views from coast to coast. 

Excavations that took place on the massive hill between 1947-1948 unearthed a series of ritualistic ancient monuments. This once sacred hilltop was used throughout history to conduct ceremonies and burials, beginning in the Neolithic period, and lasting through the Bronze and Iron Age. 

From April to Septemeber, the site is open to visitors and also maintains a visitor center where you can learn more about the rich history of Cairnpapple Hill. 

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Burial Places Mounds

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Opening times are from April 1st through September 30th, from  9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. There is a small entrance fee. During the winter, the site is free to visit but you won't be able to get inside the tomb or visitor center. You can still wander around the burial mound.

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ssm67alba

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SEANETTA, EwanMH

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  • EwanMH

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October 21, 2019

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Cairnpapple Hill
West Lothian, Scotland, EH48 4NW
United Kingdom
55.928056, -3.6225

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Photo of Scotland

Scotland

United Kingdom

Places 739
Stories 49

Nearby Places

Bangour Village Hospital

Dechmont, Scotland

miles away

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miles away

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miles away

Explore the Destination Guide

Photo of Scotland

Scotland

United Kingdom

Places 739
Stories 49

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