King's Seat facts for kids
Quick facts for kids King's Seat |
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Looking across the Sidlaw Hills from the summit
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 377 m (1,237 ft) |
| Listing | Marilyn |
| Geography | |
| Location | Perth & Kinross, Scotland |
| Parent range | Sidlaw Hills |
| OS grid | NO230330 |
| Topo map | OS Landranger 53 |
King's Seat (in Scottish Gaelic: Ceann Sidhe) is a well-known hill found in the Sidlaw Hills of South East Perthshire, Scotland. Standing at 377 meters (about 1,237 feet) tall, it is known as a Marilyn. This means it's a hill in the British Isles that is at least 150 meters (492 feet) high, with a drop of at least 150 meters on all sides. King's Seat is close to the village of Collace. It sits next to Black Hill and the smaller Dunsinane, which is famous for being mentioned in Shakespeare's play Macbeth.
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Discover King's Seat: A Scottish Hill
King's Seat is one of the main hills in the Sidlaw range. These hills stretch across parts of Perth & Kinross and Angus. The name "King's Seat" suggests a place of importance, perhaps where a king once sat or had a special view. It offers amazing views of the surrounding countryside.
Where is King's Seat Located?
King's Seat is in the beautiful region of Perth and Kinross in Scotland. It's part of the Sidlaw Hills, which are a range of low hills. These hills run northeast from Perth towards Dundee and Forfar. The hill is easily found on maps using its grid reference, NO230330. Its exact coordinates are 56.4827 degrees North and 3.2503 degrees West.
The area around King's Seat is mostly farmland and open countryside. It's a peaceful spot, perfect for enjoying nature. Nearby villages include Collace, which is a small community.
What Makes King's Seat Special?
King's Seat is special for a few reasons. First, its height of 377 meters makes it a "Marilyn." This classification is used by hillwalkers and climbers. It means the hill stands out from the land around it.
Second, its connection to Dunsinane Hill is interesting. Dunsinane is a smaller hill nearby. It is famous because of Shakespeare's play Macbeth. In the play, Macbeth is told he will not be defeated until "Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane." This link adds a touch of history and literature to the area.
Exploring the Sidlaw Hills
The Sidlaw Hills are a great place for outdoor activities. Many people enjoy walking and hiking here. The hills offer different paths for all skill levels. From the top of King's Seat, you can see far across the landscape. You might spot other hills, valleys, and even the River Tay on a clear day.
The landscape of the Sidlaws was shaped by ancient glaciers. This created the gentle slopes and rounded tops we see today. The hills are important for local wildlife and plants.
Wildlife and Nature Around King's Seat
The area around King's Seat is home to various types of wildlife. You might see different birds, such as Red Grouse or Common Buzzards. Small mammals like European Hares and Red Foxes also live here. The plant life includes heather, grasses, and some scattered trees.
The open moorland provides a habitat for many species. It's a great place for nature lovers to observe animals in their natural environment. Remember to be respectful of the wildlife and their homes when visiting.
Hiking and Walking on King's Seat
Hiking up King's Seat is a popular activity. The climb is not too difficult, making it suitable for families and casual walkers. The paths are generally clear, but it's always good to wear proper walking shoes. Bringing water and snacks is also a good idea.
The views from the summit are rewarding. You can see the Grampian Mountains to the north. To the south, you might see the Firth of Tay. It's a wonderful spot to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful Scottish scenery.
History and Legends of the Area
The area around King's Seat has a long history. People have lived here for thousands of years. There are signs of ancient settlements and forts on some of the nearby hills. These show that the land was important to early communities.
The connection to Macbeth is a big part of the local lore. While the play is fiction, it draws on real Scottish history. The story of Macbeth, a Scottish king, is well-known. This link makes exploring King's Seat and Dunsinane Hill even more exciting. It's like stepping into a storybook!
