Marilyn · Borders
East Cairn Hill
The name means 'cairn' in Gaelic. A 567m hill near the Firth of Forth in the Scottish Borders with at least 150m of prominence — enough to feel like a real summit rather than a shoulder. The modest height belies the quality of the walking.
Quick facts
- Height
- 567m/ 1860ft
- Difficulty
- 2 / 5Moderate
- Grid ref
- NT 12807 59313
Download GPX route file
Standard route
Standard route
A steady ascent through the rolling farmland and hidden valleys of the Borders to the 567m summit. The walking is straightforward with clear views opening up as you gain height. Allow 2-4 hours.
Terrain
Rolling farmland and open moorland. The Borders hills are the most walkable in Scotland — gentle gradients and firm ground.
In winter
Winter walking in the Borders is straightforward. Occasional snow and frost but the gentle terrain and good paths make these hills excellent winter options.
Best time of year
Getting there
- Glasgow2h 13m
- Edinburgh1h 37m
OS maps: OS Landranger 65, OS Landranger 72, OS Explorer 344
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:29
- Sunset
- 20:53
- Civil dawn
- 04:44
- Civil dusk
- 21:37
NOAA Solar Calculator · 2 May 2026