Reasons for Designation
Round cairns are prehistoric funerary monuments dating to the Bronze Age
(c.2000-700 BC). They were constructed as stone mounds covering single or
multiple burials. These burials may be placed within the mound in stone-lined
compartments called cists. In some cases the cairn was surrounded by a ditch.
Often occupying prominent locations, cairns are a major visual element in the
modern landscape. They are a relatively common feature of the uplands and are
the stone equivalent of the earthen round barrows of the lowlands. Their
considerable variation in form and longevity as a monument type provide
important information on the diversity of beliefs and social organisation
amongst early prehistoric communities. They are particularly representative of
their period and a substantial proportion of surviving examples are considered
worthy of protection.
Details
The monument includes the remains of a substantial round cairn of prehistoric
date situated high on the summit of the border ridge known as Windy Gyle. It
commands extensive views, and can be seen as a major landmark from all
directions. Its prominence as a landmark subsequently led to its reuse as a
marker defining the boundary between England and Scotland. It is composed of
bare angular rock and measures 14m in diameter and stands to a maximum height
of 2.2m. The upper surface of the cairn has been rearranged by walkers and
there is a shallow hollow in the centre of the cairn. The cairn is
traditionally connected with Lord Russell who, it is said, was slain there in
July 1585 by the Scots.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
25029
Legacy System:
RSM
Sources
Books and journals
Legal
This monument is scheduled under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 as amended as it appears to the Secretary of State to be of national importance. This entry is a copy, the original is held by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
End of official list entry
