Ward Hill, Hoy facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ward Hill |
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Ward Hill, seen from Cuilags to the north, with Sandy Loch intervening
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 481 m (1,578 ft) |
| Prominence | 481 m (1,578 ft) |
| Listing | Marilyn, Council top (Orkney), County top (Orkney) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Hoy, Orkney, Scotland |
| OS grid | HY229022 |
| Topo map | OS Landrangers 6, 7 |
Ward Hill is the highest point on the island of Hoy in Orkney, Scotland. It stands tall at 481 meters (about 1,578 feet) above sea level. This important hill is located in the northern part of Hoy, between the areas called Moaness and Rackwick. It's a well-known landmark in the Orkney Islands.
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The Shape and Look of Ward Hill
Ward Hill has a unique shape, curving like the letter 'J'. The lower parts of the hill are covered in plants like heather and grass. As you go higher, the top of the ridge changes. It's covered in small stones and bare, sandy soil.
The very highest point of Ward Hill is towards its northern end. You'll find a trig point there, which is a special marker used by mapmakers to measure heights and distances.
Ward Hill's Location and Neighbors
Ward Hill stands out from the other hills on Hoy. It is separated from a hill called Cuilags by an area known as the Glens of Kinnaird. Another hill, Knap of Trowieglen, is separated from Ward Hill by a valley. This valley has a road that connects Moaness and Rackwick. In this same valley, you can find the famous Dwarfie Stane, a large ancient tomb carved into a rock.
How to Climb Ward Hill
You can start climbing Ward Hill from different places. The northern side, which is directly above Hoy Village, is very steep and has crags. Because of this, it's not the easiest or most popular way to climb the hill. Other routes are generally more gentle and safer for hikers.
The Discovery of Orkney Notchwort
Ward Hill is famous for a special plant discovery. In 1808, a scientist named William Jackson Hooker found a type of liverwort called Anastrepta orcadensis on Ward Hill. Liverworts are small, simple plants, a bit like mosses. This specific type of liverwort is also found in the United States, Canada, and many parts of Europe. Ward Hill was the first place it was discovered in the United Kingdom.
