Stones of Stenness

The Standing Stones of Stenness are among the oldest stone circles in Britain, dating from around 3100 BC, which puts them ahead of both Stonehenge and the Ring of Brodgar. Twelve stones once stood here; four remain, but at up to six metres tall they're among the most imposing megaliths in Scotland.

Stenness is thought to have been a major ceremonial centre for Neolithic Orkney. Excavations have turned up evidence of feasting and ritual, and the monument aligns with the movements of the moon. The contemporary Barnhouse village sits right beside it, and the whole thing forms part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site.

The Stones of Stenness lie about 2 miles north-east of the Ring of Brodgar, on the same neck of land between Lochs Harray and Stenness. The two are usually seen together, with Maeshowe chambered cairn a short drive further east. All three make up the core of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site.

They are. Historic Environment Scotland manages the Stones of Stenness, and they're free to visit all year, with a small car park beside the site. The Barnhouse Neolithic Village next door is also open access and adds context to the ceremonial landscape around the loch.