
Traprain Law
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
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for pony spotting

Traprain Law
Best Time
Best for pony spotting
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.
"Amazing views, always thought I had to take a drive to Glencoe for views like this."

👟 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Base of the hill
Learn about the significant Roman-era treasure discovered here in 1919, a key piece of Scottish history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Footwear and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 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.
🚗 Park on the North Side
Small car park available. Avoid navigation apps that might send you to the south side.
📸 Capture the Sunset
Running down as the sun sets offers a magical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 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.
🚗 Park on the North Side
Small car park available. Avoid navigation apps that might send you to the south side.
📸 Capture the Sunset
Running down as the sun sets offers a magical experience.
🐎 Look for Wild Ponies
Exmoor ponies graze at the top, a highlight for many visitors.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
There is no entrance fee for Traprain Law. It's a free-to-access natural attraction for everyone to enjoy.
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!
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!
🎫 🧭 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.
There are several paths leading to the summit, offering different routes. The paths can be narrow and rocky, so good footwear is recommended.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Tapestry of Traprain Law
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.
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.
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
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.
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.
Encountering the Wild Residents
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.
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.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit