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Traprain Law

4.8
·29 reviews·, United Kingdom

An ancient Iron Age hillfort offering breathtaking 360-degree views and a chance to see wild ponies. A historical gem with rewarding walks.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny afternoons

Best for pony spotting

CrowdMedium
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Traprain Law - Image 1

Traprain Law

Best Time

Sunny afternoons

Best for pony spotting

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An ancient Iron Age hillfort offering breathtaking 360-degree views and a chance to see wild ponies. A historical gem with rewarding walks.

4.8
(29 reviews)

"Amazing views, always thought I had to take a drive to Glencoe for views like this."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential

Paths are narrow & rocky. Good grip is key for a safe and enjoyable climb.

💨 Be Prepared for Wind

This hill is a wind magnet! Even on a calm day, expect breezes at the summit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Summit Views

Panoramic Summit Views

Summit

Experience breathtaking 360-degree vistas of East Lothian and beyond. A refreshing reward after a brisk climb.

Iron Age Hillfort Remains

Iron Age Hillfort Remains

Summit

Explore the remnants of a significant Iron Age settlement, dating back to around 100 BC. A glimpse into ancient history.

Wild Exmoor Ponies

Wild Exmoor Ponies

Summit

Encounter the herd of Exmoor ponies that roam the summit, adding a touch of wild charm to your visit.

The Traprain Hoard Discovery

The Traprain Hoard Discovery

Base of the hill

Learn about the significant Roman-era treasure discovered here in 1919, a key piece of Scottish history.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Ascent

Traprain Law offers stunning 360-degree views, but can be windy. Consider the weather; fog can create unique experiences, while sunny days highlight the wild ponies. Plan for about 40 minutes for the round trip, with multiple paths to the summit.

Footwear and Access

The paths can be narrow and rocky, so sturdy walking shoes are a must. A small car park is available on the north side; be cautious as some navigation apps may direct you to the south. Look out for the dedicated toddler gate, which also serves as a dog guillotine!

Best Times

When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Best for pony spotting
Crowd
Medium
When
Foggy mornings
Why
Unique atmospheric views
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime
Why
Refreshing walk
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Balgone Sunflower Trail (open 25th-27th Aug) North Berwick #Scotland #scotlandtravel #scotlandexplore #scotlandscenery #visitscotland #scotlandtrip #scotlandoutdoors #scotlandwalks
@chrislawlor
106.8K likes • 1.3M views

👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential

Paths are narrow & rocky. Good grip is key for a safe and enjoyable climb. Reddit

💨 Be Prepared for Wind

This hill is a wind magnet! Even on a calm day, expect breezes at the summit. Reddit

// 🌻 Balgone’s Sunflower Trail, North Berwick #Scotland #scotlandexplore #scotlandtravel #visitscotland #scotlandtrip #scotlandshots
@chrislawlor
51.5K likes • 869.4K views
Great day out at Traprain Law with Joey and Tess. ✅ Piglet ✅ Left Edge ✅ The Chute ✅ Burp
_sta.n.ley_
20 likes • 334 views

🚗 Park on the North Side

Small car park available. Avoid navigation apps that might send you to the south side. Reddit

📸 Capture the Sunset

Running down as the sun sets offers a magical experience. Instagram

Our team at FRM have been hard at work at Traprain Law, using the Flailbot remote control flail mulcher to tackle invasive gorse on steep slopes of up to 55 degrees! This crucial work helps reduce fire risks in summer and creates space for native plants and herbs to thrive. 🌱♻️ All clippings are taken to our East Fenton site, where they’ll be composted and transformed into quality products as par...
caledonianhorticulture
55 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential

Paths are narrow & rocky. Good grip is key for a safe and enjoyable climb. Reddit

💨 Be Prepared for Wind

This hill is a wind magnet! Even on a calm day, expect breezes at the summit. Reddit

🚗 Park on the North Side

Small car park available. Avoid navigation apps that might send you to the south side. Reddit

📸 Capture the Sunset

Running down as the sun sets offers a magical experience. Instagram

🐎 Look for Wild Ponies

Exmoor ponies graze at the top, a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(29 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Traprain Law for its stunning 360-degree views and the refreshing, invigorating walk. The presence of wild ponies and the historical significance of the Iron Age hillfort and Roman treasure discovery are frequently highlighted as major attractions. While generally well-received, some note it can be windy and paths are rocky, emphasizing the need for good footwear.

"Just a great little hill, perfect for a post-prandial perambulation. Something of a wind magnet. Small car park on the northern side, careful as some route planners take you to the south side."

Byron Farrow

"Amazing views, always thought I had to take a drive to Glencoe for views like this. Amazing walk and picnic when you get to the top. There seem to be a few different ways up and down. Might take another hike up there tomorrow."

Christo

"An amazing, refreshing walk with 360 views of the surrounding area. You get quite high and the walk has a nice trekking feel to it. It takes around 40 minutes and there are few main ways for going to the top and down. I would recommend not to fear a foggy day because every weather gives a different unique experience. And yes, there are wild ponies around! Overall, if you ever happen to find yourself nearby, and fancy a walk up a hill to get some views and freshest air possible, go here."

nuric

What People Like

Amazing summit views
Refreshing walk
Wild ponies

What People Dislike

Can be windy
Rocky paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Traprain Law is located near East Linton in East Lothian, Scotland. The easiest way to access it is by car, with a small car park available on the northern side of the hill. Some route planners may direct you to the south side, so be mindful of this. Reddit

While direct public transport to the immediate base of Traprain Law might be limited, you can reach nearby East Linton by bus. From there, it's a walk or a short taxi ride to the hill. Check local bus schedules for routes serving East Linton. TikTok

If you're driving from Edinburgh, take the A1 south and then follow signs for East Linton. If coming from the north, the A1 is also your main route. The drive itself offers scenic views of the East Lothian countryside. TikTok

The drive between Alnwick and Edinburgh, which passes near Traprain Law, is dotted with historical sites. Consider stops at Tantallon Castle or other historical attractions in the East Lothian region for a fuller road trip experience. TikTok

Yes, there is a small car park located on the northern side of Traprain Law. It's advisable to use this designated parking area to ensure easy access to the walking trails. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Traprain Law is a natural landmark and a public space. There are no admission fees or tickets required to visit and enjoy the hill and its surroundings. Instagram

Traprain Law is accessible at all times, as it is an open natural landscape. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the views. Instagram

There is no entrance fee for Traprain Law. It's a free-to-access natural attraction for everyone to enjoy. Reddit

Yes, dogs are welcome at Traprain Law. However, it's important to keep them under control, especially around the wild ponies and other visitors. The 'dog guillotine' gate is a unique feature to be aware of! Reddit

Traprain Law can be suitable for children, especially those who enjoy a bit of an adventure. The climb is relatively short, but the paths can be rocky. There's even a dedicated toddler gate! Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The climb to the summit of Traprain Law typically takes around 40 minutes round trip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the top. Reddit

There are several paths leading to the summit, offering different routes. The paths can be narrow and rocky, so good footwear is recommended. Reddit

The terrain is varied, with grassy slopes and some rocky sections. The climb is considered a 'steep climb' by some, but it's manageable for most fitness levels. InstagramReddit

There are no specific facilities like restrooms or cafes directly at Traprain Law. It's a natural site, so come prepared. The nearby town of East Linton offers amenities. Reddit

Traprain Law is historically significant as the site of an Iron Age hillfort and the location where the Traprain Hoard, a major Roman-era treasure, was discovered in 1919. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers incredible 360-degree panoramic views, perfect for landscape photography. The wild ponies also make for unique photo subjects. Don't miss the chance to capture the sunset if you time your visit right. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Many visitors recommend timing their visit for sunrise or sunset. The changing light can create dramatic and beautiful scenes, especially with the expansive views from the top. TikTokInstagram

A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the panoramic views. If you're hoping to photograph the ponies, a telephoto lens can be useful. A sturdy tripod will help with low-light conditions during sunrise or sunset. TikTok

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check local bylaws and guidelines before flying a drone in any natural or historical area to ensure compliance and respect for the environment and other visitors. Instagram

The entire summit area provides excellent viewpoints. As you ascend, keep an eye out for clearings that offer unobstructed vistas. The highest point is the natural focal point for the most comprehensive views. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Traprain Law offers a fun and accessible adventure for families. The climb is relatively short, making it manageable for most children, and the 'dog guillotine' toddler gate adds a quirky element of amusement. Reddit The presence of wild ponies is a huge draw for kids, providing an exciting wildlife encounter. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on the hill. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear due to the rocky paths. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Walkers

For those who enjoy a good walk with rewarding views, Traprain Law is an excellent choice. The varied paths offer a pleasant trekking experience, and the summit provides stunning 360-degree panoramas that rival those found in more mountainous regions. Reddit The relatively short duration of the hike makes it perfect for a post-prandial perambulation or a quick dose of fresh air. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Traprain Law is a photographer's delight, especially for landscape enthusiasts. The panoramic views from the summit are spectacular, and the changing light conditions throughout the day, particularly at sunrise and sunset, offer dramatic photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram The wild ponies also provide unique subjects. A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the expansive vistas. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Tapestry of Traprain Law

Traprain Law is more than just a hill; it's a site steeped in history. Archaeological evidence points to its use as a significant Iron Age hillfort, with settlements dating back as far as 1500 BC. This ancient stronghold covered an impressive 40 acres, showcasing the strategic importance of the location for early inhabitants. Instagram+1

The most famous historical event associated with Traprain Law is the discovery of the Traprain Hoard in 1919. This remarkable collection of Roman-era silver, weighing over 1,600 ounces, is one of the most significant Roman treasures found in Britain. It's believed to have been a significant haul of looted silver, possibly from Roman Britain, buried for safekeeping. Instagram+1

Today, Traprain Law continues to be managed for conservation. Invasive gorse is tackled using remote-controlled machinery on steep slopes, helping to reduce fire risks and create space for native flora to thrive. This work ensures the hill remains a valuable ecological and historical site for future generations. Instagram

Navigating the Trails and Terrain

The ascent of Traprain Law is a rewarding experience, with several paths offering access to the summit. While not an overly strenuous climb, the terrain is characterized by narrow and rocky sections, making sturdy walking shoes a necessity. Reddit Many visitors describe the walk as having a 'nice trekking feel,' adding to the sense of adventure. Reddit

There are multiple ways to reach the top, allowing for varied routes on your ascent and descent. Some paths are steeper than others, offering a good workout. The entire round trip typically takes about 40 minutes, but this can vary based on individual pace and time spent enjoying the views at the summit. Reddit

Be prepared for the elements, as Traprain Law is known to be a wind magnet. Even on a seemingly calm day, the summit can be breezy. This windiness, however, contributes to the refreshing atmosphere and the unique character of the landscape. Reddit

Encountering the Wild Residents

One of the most delightful surprises for visitors to Traprain Law is the presence of wild Exmoor Ponies. These hardy animals roam freely across the summit, adding a unique and charming element to the landscape. Reddit Seeing them grazing peacefully against the backdrop of the expansive views is a memorable experience. Instagram

While the ponies are a highlight, it's important to remember they are wild animals. Visitors are advised to observe them from a respectful distance and avoid feeding or disturbing them. Their presence contributes to the natural beauty and ecological balance of the hill. Reddit

Beyond the ponies, the hill is also a habitat for various native plants and herbs, supported by conservation efforts that manage invasive species. This focus on biodiversity ensures that Traprain Law remains a vibrant natural space. Instagram

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