Megray Hill facts for kids

Megray Hill is a small, low hill located near the coast in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It's part of the Mounth Range, which is a section of the Grampian Mountains. This hill reaches a height of 120 metres (about 394 feet) above sea level.

Megray Hill is thought to be a possible location for an important ancient battle. This was the Battle of Mons Graupius, fought long ago between the Romans and the native Caledonians. A large Roman Camp called Raedykes is located about three kilometres (less than 2 miles) to the west of Megray Hill. From the top of Megray Hill, you can see wide views of the North Sea to the east. You can also enjoy beautiful sights of the old harbour in Stonehaven.

Water Around Megray Hill

Megray Hill is about 1.1 kilometres (less than a mile) north of Stonehaven. Water flowing off the northern and eastern sides of the hill goes into a stream called the Burn of Muchalls. Water from the southern side of the hill flows into the Cowie Water.

The Cowie Water is a stream that is slightly alkaline. This means it's not very acidic. However, some other streams in the area have lower pH levels (meaning they are more acidic). This might be because of water draining from peat bogs on nearby Meikle Carewe Hill and Curlethney Hill. This water flows into the Cowie Water through a smaller stream called the Burn of Monboys.

Ancient Times

Evidence of very old human activity has been found near Megray Hill. On a nearby hill called Kempstone Hill, there are standing stones. These stones show that people lived in this area during the Neolithic period, which was a very long time ago.

Historical Routes

Since the High Middle Ages, an old path called the Causey Mounth has been used. This was a drovers' road, meaning it was used to move cattle and other animals. It connected Stonehaven with the city of Aberdeen. A part of this old path runs along the eastern side of Megray Hill.

Wind Farm Plans

There are plans to build a wind farm near Megray Hill. A company called Renewable Energy Resources has asked the Aberdeenshire Council for permission. They want to put 12 wind turbines on Curlethney Hill and Meikle Carewe Hill. These hills are just west of Megray Hill.

Each turbine would be 70 metres (about 230 feet) tall. If built, the whole wind farm could create enough electricity for about 5,000 homes. However, some people are worried about the plan. Concerns include noise pollution, how the turbines would look, and any impact on local wildlife and nature.