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Bin of Cullen: Scenic Hilltop Overlooking Moray Coast

A scenic 320m hill near Buckie with panoramic coastal views, a peaceful walk, and rich local heritage.

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The Bin of Cullen is a distinctive 320-meter dome-shaped hill near Buckie, Scotland, offering panoramic views of the Moray coastline from Cullen to Buckie. Known locally as Bin Hill, it features a bare summit with a trig point and a cairn, making it a popular spot for walkers seeking a moderate hike with rewarding vistas. The walk is approximately 5.5 km round trip, traversing forest paths and gentle inclines, with picnic benches at the summit but no visitor facilities nearby.

A brief summary to Bin of Cullen

  • Buckie, GB
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy footwear as the path can be rocky and muddy, especially after rain.
  • Bring water and snacks since there are no food or restroom facilities on the hill.
  • Use the picnic benches at the summit to rest and enjoy the panoramic views.
  • Plan your visit on a clear day for the best visibility of the coastline and inland landmarks.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Buckie, the Bin of Cullen trailhead is accessible via the A98 road. The journey takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Parking is limited to a small area near the trail start, so arriving early is recommended. There are no parking fees.

  • Bus and Walk

    Take a regional bus service to Buckie town center, which is served by routes from Elgin and Aberdeen. From Buckie, the trailhead is approximately a 3 km walk on rural roads and paths, taking about 40 to 50 minutes. The walk includes some inclines and uneven terrain.

  • Taxi

    Local taxis from Buckie to the Bin of Cullen trailhead take around 10 minutes. This option is suitable if you prefer not to walk from town or if public transport schedules are limited. Expect fares in the range of £10 to £15.

Bin of Cullen location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Bin of Cullen

A Distinctive Landmark in Moray's Coastal Landscape

The Bin of Cullen stands as a prominent dome-shaped hill rising 320 meters above the surrounding terrain in Moray, Scotland. Its rounded summit is largely bare, contrasting with the surrounding forestry, and it dominates views inland from the coastline stretching between Cullen and Buckie. The hill’s Gaelic name, Am Binnean, reflects its heritage, while its proximity to the fishing villages of Cullen, Findochty, and Portknockie makes it a familiar landmark for locals and visitors alike.

A Rewarding Walk with Panoramic Views

The typical route to the summit is about 5.5 kilometers (3.5 miles) round trip, mostly uphill with some rocky and muddy sections, requiring good footwear. The ascent offers a peaceful woodland approach alongside the Badentarget Burn, crossed by a small bridge, before reaching the open summit. From the top, walkers are treated to sweeping 360-degree views encompassing coastal towns, harbors, churches, and countryside. Notable sights include the town of Buckie with its harbour and schools, the Cullen Viaduct, Cullen House dating from the 1600s, and distant coastal settlements extending towards Spey Bay.

Summit Features and Visitor Experience

At the summit, a trig point marks the highest spot, accompanied by a cairn that once held a circular directional plaque indicating nearby landmarks, though it has suffered vandalism. Visitors can rest on solid wooden benches donated by the local Boy’s Brigade, perfect for picnics while soaking in the views. Despite the natural beauty, there are no public toilets, picnic tables, or rubbish bins at the site, so visitors should plan accordingly. The area is peaceful and scenic, ideal for those seeking a tranquil outdoor escape.

Access and Surrounding Environment

Access to the Bin of Cullen is typically from the A98 road near Buckie, with a small parking area at the trailhead. The walk is family-friendly, with children managing the terrain though some may find the incline challenging. The hill’s location near the coast means weather can be variable, with clear skies offering the best visibility. The surrounding environment blends open hilltop views with forested paths, providing a mix of natural habitats and scenic landscapes.

Local Significance and Cultural Context

The Bin of Cullen holds cultural significance through its Gaelic name and its role as a natural viewpoint over historic fishing communities. Its prominence in the landscape has made it a symbol of the area’s natural heritage. The nearby towns of Cullen and Buckie have rich histories tied to maritime industries, and the hill offers a unique vantage point to appreciate this heritage in context with the natural environment.

Planning Your Visit and Practical Considerations

Visitors should prepare for a moderate hike of approximately 1.5 hours round trip, wearing sturdy footwear due to uneven and sometimes muddy terrain. Since facilities are limited, bringing water and snacks is advisable. The site is open year-round but best enjoyed in dry weather for safety and optimal views. The Bin of Cullen offers a peaceful retreat with rewarding panoramas, making it a worthwhile destination for walkers and nature lovers exploring the Moray coast.

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