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The 10 Best Ancient Ruins in Scotland, United Kingdom
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1. Skara Brae
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2,073 reviews
The Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae, near the dramatic white beach of the Bay of Skaill, is one of the best preserved groups of prehistoric houses in Western Europe. Uncovered by a storm in 1850, the attraction presents a remarkable picture of life around 5,000 years ago. Visitors can experience a prehistoric village and see ancient homes fitted with stone beds, dressers and seats. A replica construction allows visitors to fully understand the interior of a prehistoric house.
Reviewed By 777juliea - Winchester, United Kingdom
This fascinating historic site was on our bucket list for years, and now we have managed to visit twice. On both occasions we were on a guided tour, and the tour guide was full of interesting information. Who could imagine that these relatively advanced houses actually predated Stonehenge? The cluster of houses is close to the sea, with a magnificent sweep of a bay just beyond so visiting the site is itself a memorable experience. Some of the dwellings still retain their stone fittings. There is also a replica dwelling close by which visitors can enter.
2. Clach Ard
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
3. The Old Bridge of Livet
4. Mousa Iron Age Broch
5. Ring of Brodgar
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,342 reviews
This is the largest Neolithic standing stone circle in Scotland, which is more than 340 feet in diameter consisting of 25 stones, the largest of which is 15 feet in height.
Reviewed By U8982CDkarenm - Kirkwall, United Kingdom
Your step back in time starts at the car park - read the info & realise you're about to walk somewhere that has been there longer than the pyramids!! Stroll the paths to the ring of amazing standing stones (in winter you can't access the centre due to ground damage) however, the walk round the perimeter is awesome. Dwell on how these massive stones where moved from various parts of orkney - not just local. And reflect on their purpose & why they are there. Various single stones stand off from the ring & clear cut paths guide you. The views across both Harray & Stenness Loch complete the walk.
6. Maeshowe Chambered Cairn
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 710 reviews
This site is closed for now. We’re working hard to gradually reopen the places you love while making sure the experience is safe for everyone. Enter one of the finest Neolithic buildings in north-west Europe, a masterpiece of ancient engineering. This chambered tomb, which sits on a platform encircled by a ditch, is a monument to the skill and beliefs of Orkney's people some 5,000 years ago. If you visit in midwinter - and the skies are clear - you can witness the central chamber illuminated by a shaft of light from the setting sun. Maeshowe's unique story continued with it was broken into about 1,000 years ago by Norsemen. They left their mark in the astonishing runic graffiti, alongside the stunning 'Maeshowe Lion' carving. Visits are by guided tour only. Tours depart from the new Maeshowe Visitor Centre (at Stenness), postcode KW16 3LB. Tours are hourly and start at 10am with the last tour at 4pm.
Reviewed By _sw5555_ - Vancouver, Canada
Guided tour is about 1HR and features a number of topics which are semi-hidden, only to be illuminated by the knowledgeable tour guide. There is also reportedly the largest number of Viking runes in one location in the UK.
7. Melrose Abbey
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,136 reviews
Melrose Abbey is now open and we are delighted to welcome you back. Booking in advance is essential. Find out more and book at restarthistory.scot. Probably the most famous ruin in Scotland, the abbey was founded by David I in 1136 for the Cistercian Order, and it was largely destroyed by Richard II's English army in 1385. The surviving remains of the church are of the early 15th century, and are of an elegance unsurpassed in Scotland. Objects found during excavation are displayed in the Commendator's House. The exterior of this magnificent ruin is decorated by unusual sculptures, including hobgoblins, cooks with ladles and a bagpipe playing pig. The abbey is also thought to be the burial place of Robert the Bruce's heart, marked with a commemorative carved stone plaque within the grounds.
Reviewed By Termer13 - Swanage, United Kingdom
Prominently situation in Melrose, the Abbey is an integral part of the identity of Melrose. Imposing and full of atmosphere the Abbey is well worth a visit and while you’re there there’s loads more to see in this lovely borders town where I happily grew up!
8. Clava Cairns
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 680 reviews
Mysterious ancient ruins and burial chambers similar to Stonehenge.
Reviewed By I3351YCmaryg
I learned about this place by chance, from a taxi driver the night before. It is a hidden gem at the back of Culloden Moor battlefield - you can walk to it (about 30mins) or a few minutes drive. We were there in late autumn and the glorious colours added to the beauty. There were only 3 other people there, so very quiet which added to the almost mystical aura. There's 3 large stone structures, thought to be ancient burial sites and one smaller one so you can see it all and read the very informative boards in about 30 mins. Well worth a visit. It's free of charge with a donation for upkeep box.
9. Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 435 reviews
Visitors can explore the grounds of Jarlshof, but our visitor centre and facilities are currently closed. The Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse settlements in Shetland are one of the most important and inspirational archaeological sites in Scotland. Jarlsholf is located at Sumburgh Head near the southern tip of Mainland Shetland. This extraordinary site has a complex of ancient settlements which cover more than 4,000 years of human history. You will be amazed to find such a range of archaeological treasures in one place, including late Neolithic houses, a Bronze Age village, an Iron Age broch and wheelhouses, a Norse longhouse, a medieval farmstead and a 16th century laird’s house. The fascinating interpretation centre houses a hands-on display of local materials traditionally used on site including wool, stone, slate and bone. Visitors can also learn all about prehistoric life and history of the site.
Reviewed By AlisP574 - Toronto, Canada
It has on the sea coast foundations of buildings of farms from the Neolithic Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Norsemen period and Middle Ages and the remains of a 17th century fort. Explanations at each of them have pictures and explanations. It was not a village but single homes which for security were within sight of other farms. Worth visiting for its uniqueness.
10. Jedburgh Abbey
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 635 reviews
Jedburgh Abbey is now open and we are delighted to welcome you back. Booking in advance is essential. Find out more and book at restarthistory.scot. One of the four border abbeys, Jedburgh Abbey was founded by David I in around 1138 for Augustinian canons. Explore the fascinating Jedburgh Abbey along with its visitor centre and surrounding herb garden with aromatic plants and a stone display at the west end. The church was built in the Romanesque and early Gothic styles and is remarkably complete. Jedburgh Abbey’s close location to the English border meant it was frequently targeted by invading border armies. Remains of the cloister buildings have been uncovered and finds from the excavations, including the 12th century 'Jedburgh comb' and an eighth century shrine are on display.
Reviewed By AlanT607 - Paducah, United States
We didn't get to go inside but we could walk all around it. They had a well maintained cemetery with special blue plaques around the abbey and throughout the town with historical information.
