Stones of Stenness - Barnhouse - Ring of Brodgar
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The best way to visit the evocative Neolithic standing stones in the heart of mainland Orkney is on foot. The walk incorporates the nearby excavated prehistoric village of Barnhouse, as well as the famous Stones of Stenness and Ring of Brodgar.
This cluster of Neolithic ancient monuments is also very close to the extraordinary tomb of Maes Howe. You need to book a guided tour of Maes Howe, so you may want to organise this in advance. Information is at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk about how to do this.
Only a handful of the Stones of Stenness still stand, but the setting is outstanding. A short walk takes you to the remains of Barnhouse Village, which may have been contemporary with the stones (one of the buildings seems to mirror the 'floorplan' of the ring) and indeed with the Maes Howe tomb.
From here we follow a path set up by the RSPB along the Loch of Stenness to reach the Ring of Brodgar, a much more complete stone circle. Return via the Comet Stone and a short stretch alongside the road (mostly on a wide grass verge).
Scotland - Highlands and Islands - Orkney - Orkney Mainland
Features
Ancient Monument, Birds, Lake/Loch, Public Transport