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Inscribed Stones, Tormain Hill, Ratho. |
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Description
Tormain Hill can be seen to the south west of
Ratho village, itself located to the west of Edinburgh. The hill
has eight examples of rock art, two of which are shown here,
including cup and ring markings, a cross like structure with
cups and an arrow that is likely to be a bench mark. Most are
readily visible while other are obscured by moss and lichen
growth. The marking are best
viewed when the sun is low in the east or west during sunrise
and sunset or when a light covering of snow highlights the
markings. The remains of ancient burial cairns can be found
nearby and a stone circle may also have once existed in the
area, although no trace now remains. A large number of stones
can be found along the footpath leading to the carvings and
while most are the result of field clearance, some may have
formed part of the original stone circle.
Directions
Starting in Ratho village, follow the road towards Bonnington
Mains, to the west. A long, thin wood can be seen on the left and
a footpath can be followed within the wood. The carvings are after
the path ends. Care should be taken when crossing the barbed wire
fence. GPS receivers may not work correctly at this location due
to the surrounding woodland.
Parking
Ratho village.
Fieldnotes
Although not really currently within the remit of the present
site, these stones are well worth looking out for, are
relatively easy to get to and to find when you get there. One
possible difficulty is climbing over the barbed wire fence when
the footpath ends.
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