Neolithic Sites (and sights) in Orkney

When you think of Orkney, the word 'neolithic' isn't far off. And that's not the mobile signal we are talking.

So many people come to visit Orkney because of the neolithic sites - and quite rightly too, it's something us Orcadians are proud of. And the sites themselves are really unique.

Given the recent news that Stonehenge may include stones from Orkney, this has only heightened the special nature of Orkney and the neolithic period.

So let's highlight some of these fantastic Neolithic sites including the very much well known and those which are a little less well known.

What is Neolithic Orkney?

Before Stonehenge, before the Pyramids, there was Neolithic Orkney. This was about 4000 to 2500 BCE. So definitely older than your Granny. The Neolithic period marked a significant turning point in human history, characterized by the development of agriculture, permanent settlements, and complex societies.

And Orkney played a significant role it seemed, helped by the fact that lots of the sites are well preserved and protected.

In recognition of its historical importance, the Heart of Neolithic Orkney was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

This designation highlights the global significance of Orkney's archaeological treasures and underscores the need for their preservation.

The Heart of Neolithic Orkney: A World Heritage Site

The Heart of Neolithic Orkney is a collection of four key sites that collectively represent the pinnacle of Neolithic achievement in the region. These sites:

• Skara Brae,
• Maeshowe,
• the Standing Stones of Stenness, and
• the Ring of Brodgar

Are absolutely 'must-sees' when you visit Orkney, so let's dig (pun intended) into them now.

Skara Brae

Skara Brae is perhaps the most famous of Orkney's Neolithic sites and is often referred to as the "Scottish Pompeii" due to its exceptional state of preservation.

Discovered in 1850 after a severe storm revealed its buried structures, Skara Brae is a prehistoric village that dates back to around 3100 BCE.

The site consists of eight stone-built houses, connected by covered passageways, and provides a rare and intimate glimpse into domestic life during the Neolithic period.

The houses of Skara Brae are remarkably well-preserved, with stone furniture such as beds, dressers, and storage boxes still in place. These structures offer insights into the daily lives of the people who lived there, including their diet, social structure, and use of space.

What I find so fascinating, is that no one knows why the community left!

It used to be that, back in the day, you could go through the structures, but not so anymore - it's that popular, it needs to be protected.

Skara Brae is a must-visit for anyone visiting Orkney.

Visitors to Skara Brae can explore the site through a well-maintained visitor center, which offers exhibits, guided tours, and interactive displays that help bring the past to life.

The site also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, providing a sense of the isolation and rugged beauty that has characterized Orkney for millennia.

Skara Brae is also near Skaill Beach, one of the best beaches in Orkney. So whilst you're visiting this Neolithic site, you can take in a little stroll on sandy beach too.

Visiting Tip: Skara Brae is not free to enter, you can turn up and pay but the advice is to book in advance online. This, I would strongly suggest to do in the Summer especially.

Maeshowe

Maeshowe is another iconic site within the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, renowned for its architectural sophistication and astronomical alignment.

Built around 2800 BCE, Maeshowe is a large chambered cairn and passage grave, considered one of the finest examples of Neolithic engineering in Europe. The cairn's construction reflects a deep understanding of geometry and craftsmanship, with its stonework meticulously arranged to create a stable, weatherproof structure that has endured for over 4,000 years.

One of Maeshowe's most remarkable features is its alignment with the winter solstice. On the shortest day of the year, the setting sun shines directly into the entrance passage, illuminating the inner chamber in a display of light that would have been both awe-inspiring and symbolically significant for the Neolithic people. This alignment suggests that Maeshowe was not only a burial site but also a place of ritual and spiritual importance.

In addition to its Neolithic significance, Maeshowe is also famous for the Viking graffiti carved into its walls. These runic inscriptions, dating from the 12th century, provide a fascinating glimpse into the Viking Age and the cultural interactions between the Norse settlers and the ancient monuments of Orkney.

There is even a carving of a dragon. The Maeshowe dragon has inspired and captivated Orcadians since it was discovered, although not much is known about the viking who carved, or why.

Visiting Tip: Just like Skara Brae, it's advised you book in advance. You then head to the Maeshowe visiting centre, to be whisked to the site by bus. Don't try and go by yourself. There is a very non-neolithic lock preventing access.

The Standing Stones of Stenness 

The Standing Stones of Stenness are among the oldest stone circles in Britain, dating back to around 3100 BCE.

Originally consisting of 12 massive stones arranged in a circle, the site now has four standing stones remaining, each towering over five meters tall. Some of the stones were brought down in the 1800s by an irate farmer, but locals quickly put a stop to that.

Despite their reduced number, these monolithic stones still evoke a sense of mystery and power, reflecting the spiritual and ceremonial significance they likely held for the Neolithic people.

Theories about the purpose of the Standing Stones of Stenness vary, with some suggesting that they were used for astronomical observations, while others believe they were part of a larger ceremonial complex that included the nearby Ring of Brodgar and Maeshowe.

The precise function of the stones remains unknown, but their scale and positioning indicate that they were an important focal point for the community.

The Ring of Brodgar

The Ring of Brodgar is one of the most impressive stone circles in the British Isles and is considered the centerpiece of the Neolithic monuments in Orkney. Dating from around 2500 BCE, the Ring of Brodgar originally consisted of 60 stones, of which 36 still stand today. The circle, which spans over 100 meters in diameter, is encircled by a large ditch, further emphasizing its importance and the effort involved in its construction.

The Ring of Brodgar is majestic from afar and up close. I still really enjoy parking up and walking around it, stopping to take in the full view of the Rings and the surrounding landscape.

It is believed to have been a site of ritual and ceremony, possibly used for astronomical observations or as a gathering place for the community.

The circle's location, on a narrow strip of land between two lochs, adds to its dramatic setting and enhances the sense of connection between the natural and spiritual worlds.

It's also close to several RSPB owned areas, so you may spot some of the wonderful wildlife that Orkney has.

For visitors, the Ring of Brodgar offers an awe-inspiring experience. The site is open year-round, and guided tours are available to help visitors understand its significance and the broader context of Neolithic Orkney. The Ring of Brodgar is also a popular spot for photographers, especially during sunrise or sunset when the stones are bathed in golden light.

Visiting Tip: There are currently no toilets at the site - so make sure yo go, before you go round.

The standing stones are so beautiful they were the inspiration for my standing stones collection. The collection is all about celebrating the captivating nature of the stones on the landscape.

Off-the-beaten track Neolithic sites

Whilst I say off-the-beaten track, some of these neolithic sites are literally on the side of the road, so it's less of a trek than you might think.

Unstan Chambered Cairn - just off the main road towards Stromness, after Stenness, this cairn is free to enter and relatively easily accessilbe. Built in the Neolithic period, it's unusual in that the cairn is stalled.

Cuween chambered Cairn - atop the hill in Finnstown is Cuween chambered cairn. It's a steep walk, but well worth the climb with views over the Bay of Firth. It's just as interesting as Maeshowe, just nowhere near as busy.

So there we have it - explore Orkney's neolithic sites today. They are a real hit! And don't forget, once you are done, you can pop into the Barrier View Cafe for a coffee and a cake.