The Hopetoun Monument, East Lothian

Sitting on top of Byre's Hill, near Haddington, is the 95ft (29m) Hopetoun Monument which was erected in 1824 in memory of John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun (1765–1823).  The Hopetoun Monument dominates the skyline around the area and the views from the top of Byre's Hill across the Firth of Forth are quite spectacular.  On a clear day it is said you can see the Cairngorm mountains in the Highlands.  

You can even climb the 132 steps to the top of the monument to get an even better view but I wasn't aware that this was possible until I got back to the car park and read the information board.  I'll leave that climb for my next visit.

On the base of the monument is an inscription which, due to erosion and its height above the ground, is not easy to read.  But it says - "This monument was erected to the memory of the Great and Good John, Fourth Earl of Hopetoun by his affectionate and grateful tenantry in East Lothian. MDCCCXXIV" 

To reach the monument there is a steep climb up from the car park at the base of Byre's Hill, winding up steeply through wooded slopes, and a corridor of gorse, before coming out onto the open hilltop.  There are many flowers and wildlife to be seen in the area.

For more information on Byre's Hill and the Hopetoun Monument visit the East Lothian Council website HERE

Images taken on an X-Pro1 + Fujinon XF18mm f2R or Fujifilm X-T1 + XF10-24mm f4R or XF55-200mm f3.5/4.8R

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