Dunsinane Hill

Overview

Known in archeological circles as one of Perthshire's most charismatic hill forts, Dunsinane is bursting with history and atmosphere and makes for a superb short walk.

The hill is part of the Sidlaw range and rises to a height of 1012 feet/ 308 metres, several miles north east of Perth. As the name suggests, Dunsinane (Dun being the Gaelic word for a fortress or castle) was the site of an Iron Age Hill fort and walkers approaching the summit are, in fact, walking over ramps and ditches constructed thousands of years ago to improve the defence capability of the site. These early military defences are most clearly seen when viewed from Black Hill, the next hill to the east and a great spot from which to marvel at the ingenuity of our forebears.

In more recent times Dunsinane Hill Fort has become known locally as MacBeth's Castle, made famous in the 16th century by playwright William Shakespeare with these immortal lines from The Scottish Play...also known as 'MacBeth'.

"I will not be afraid of death and bane till Birnam Forest come to Dunsinane"
Act V, Scene III

As might be expected, Shakespeare researched his material carefully and on a clear day you can see the woods around Birnam from the top of Dunsinane.

Further information on Dunsinane Hill and other walks in the area from Perth Tourist Information Centre.