Cairn Table Walk (near Muirkirk)

Distance	Approximate Time	Height Gain	OS Map
5 kms	02:00 (hrs:mins)	365 metres	Explorer 328: Sanquhar & New Cumnock

Description

From Muirkirk, Cairn Table (593m) dominates the horizon rising to its lonely height on the edge of the Southern Uplands. This is more a climb than a walk and from the top of the hill on a clear day, the Isle of Arran, Ben Lomond and the Galloway Hills can be seen. The hill is topped by three cairns, two of which reputedly lie on top of the remains of some of the druids of early years.

Down the western side of the hill there's a spring called the Cairn Table Cauldron, one of many. Legend has it that the Picts used the spring water to steep heather to make a special brew.

The route follows what is known locally as the March Fence. From the car park, follow the poles which mark the early stages onto a track which leads over The Steel and straight up the easy slopes of Cairn Table. A huge summit cairn commemorates the local people who died in World War 1. An easy north-westerly descent leads by Sanquhar Brig and a Land Rover track back to the start.

Access Info

The walk start is at a car park by the small settlement of Kames, 1/2 a mile south of Muirkirk.

Additional Info

The route is over a grouse moor and is a sanctuary for bird life. Look out for golden plover, lapwing, curlew, snipe, skylark and hen harrier. Hill walking boots recommended. Refreshments in Muirkirk.