Tap O'Noth

The site crowns the conspicuous 562 m high SW summit of the Hill of Noth.

The major feature is the substantial remnant of the vitrified wall, defining an oblong approximately 100 m by 30 m in size.

An internal depression, in which water may sometimes be seen, probably served as a cistern for the initial inhabitants.

Although it is difficult to imagine such a high site being occupied on a permanent basis, there are slight traces of platforms, perhaps for circular wooden houses, on the S side beyond the collapsed rubble from the vitrified enclosure.

Much further out, on the N and E, there is a much less impressive defence, formed by boulders strung out along the flanks of the hill.

Directions

• Grid ref: NJ 484 293 - Ordnance Survey Landranger series sheet no. 37

20 miles W of Inverurie. The approach to this, the second highest fort in Scotland, involves a somewhat arduous walk from Brae of Scurdargue, approximately 1 ½ miles NW of Rhynie on A941 to Dufftown.