Standing Stones of Stenness — Attraction in Scotland

Echoes of the Past - The Standing Stones of Stenness

A key highlight of our NC500 tour was undoubtedly the Standing Stones of Stenness, one of Scotland's most awe-inspiring prehistoric sites. An integral part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, this henge monument offers a profound connection to a time long past.

Upon arriving, we were immediately struck by the majesty of the towering stones. Standing on a narrow isthmus framed by two lochs, these megaliths against the dramatic Scottish landscape created a sight to behold. Their sheer size and ancient origin left us feeling both humbled and intrigued.

Exploring the site was a unique experience. Being able to walk among the stones, touch them, and feel their cold, weathered surfaces gave us a tangible sense of the site's antiquity. The site's atmosphere is peaceful, fostering reflection and wonder.

The informative panels scattered around the site provided a rich context for understanding the monument's historical significance. They narrated the story of the people who might have erected these stones and the possible ceremonial role they played.

Despite its popularity, the Standing Stones of Stenness maintained a serene atmosphere. The site's accessibility is commendable, with ample parking available and clear paths leading up to the monument.

In conclusion, the Standing Stones of Stenness serve as an evocative testament to Scotland's ancient history. They offer more than just a photographic opportunity; they provide a direct, palpable link to our shared human past. A visit to this timeless monument is an absolute must while embarking on the...

This is part of a larger site, now known as "the heart of neolithic Orkney". The remaining stones here (previous landowners were unkind to the stones, with one stone being dynamited …) give a good idea what the original site would have been like.

With the stunning burial mound of Maeshowe very close (and whatever lies under it, as a geophysical scan a few years ago showed that mound itself is not the first construction on that site), the Ring of Brodgar on the horizon only a mile away, and the overwhelming Ness of Brodgar "Temple site" being excavated between them, this small piece of land is an amazing place, particularly when taken with the adjacent (but only recently discovered) houses at Barnhouse.

The importance of the landscape here must be seen to be appreciated, and although it can get very busy, seeing THIS ring before visiting the other nearby locations is by far the best plan.

Walk slowly round the stones, look at the alignments with surrounding hills. The loch was not in place when the stones were erected, it was bogland and there are signs of more under the water as it currently is. So look,...

Memorable return visit to the impressive Standing Stones of Stenness - declared so significant along with the Ring O' Brodgar, Maeshowe chambered tomb and Skara Brae it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 - the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Recommend a Ranger led tour for best insight. Set in a surrounding landscape with the Hills of Hoy in the distance and opposite the Brackish Loch of Stenness. Dont forget to visit the nearby ancient Barnhouse village where it is believed processions started from. Learn about the Odin Stone where people got married (replica in Kirkwall), the Watch Stone at the bridge, and the stunning Ness of Brodgar (now covered up - check online for information ). You may be fortunate to catch sight of a seal on the rocks there, a rare otter or encounter other wildlife including a range of birds: swans, geese, curlew, short eared owls, oystercatchers, skylarks, etc. Please treat this ancient place with respect as it surely deserves. Immerse yourself in the mystery of these Standing Stones, the surrounding ditch and henge. Breathe...