Tinto facts for kids

Tinto from Lanark Racecourse.

Tinto is a special hill in Scotland. It stands alone in the Southern Uplands, a group of hills in the south of the country. This hill is on the west side of the River Clyde. It is about 8 kilometers (5 miles) west of a town called Biggar.

The peak is also known as "Tinto Tap." The name "Tinto" might come from an old Scottish word, teinnteach. This word means "fiery." It could refer to a time long ago when the hill was used as a lookout beacon. People would light fires there to send signals.

Tinto is also called the "Hill of Fire." Some people think this name came from the red rocks on the hill. When the sun sets, it lights up these red rocks. This makes the hillside look like it is glowing with fire.

The Tinto Cairn

At the very top of Tinto, there is a large pile of stones called "Tinto Cairn." This cairn is very old. It was built during the Bronze Age. It is one of the biggest round cairns in Scotland.

The cairn is about 45 meters (148 feet) wide. It stands about 6 meters (20 feet) tall. Most Bronze Age cairns are found in lower areas. This makes the Tinto Cairn special because it is so high up.

An Old Rhyme

There is an old children's rhyme from Scotland about Tinto. It talks about a "kist in the mist" at "Tintock tap." In Scots, a kist means a "chest."

Fun Activities at Tinto

Tinto is a great place for outdoor activities. Many people enjoy walking and hiking up the hill. It is also a top spot for hang gliding and paragliding. People launch themselves from the hill and fly through the air.

The hill is close to two small villages. These are Thankerton and Wiston. Every November, Tinto hosts a very popular hill running race. Runners challenge themselves to reach the top.

Artistic Recognition

Tinto Hill has also been a subject for artists. A painter named John Pairman painted Tinto Hill in 1841.