Ness of Brodgar
The most recent Neolithic site in the area and to some accounts the most important. Dates back to 3500BC and was occupied for 1500 years. In the summer months, archeologists are hard at work.
This few square miles of Orkney mainland island offers an unequalled treasure of Neolithic sites in various states of display. This latest is still being uncovered: According to project manager Nick Card, the discoveries are unparalleled in British prehistory, the complexity of finds is changing the "whole vision of what the landscape was 5,000 years ago" and that "it’s of a scale that almost relates to the classical period in the Mediterranean with walled enclosure and walled precincts". Additionally, according to archaeologists in general, the site could be more important than Stonehenge!
You cannot see it all yet, but when combined with the other local sites, this is going to totally change your perception of what life was like and what humans were capable of 4000 years ago!
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Barnhouse Settlement
ONly discovered in 1984, this is another fascinating neolithic monument that makes this area absolutely remarkable. 15 houses that date back to 3000BC. Walk from the Standing Stones of Stenness.
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Maeshowe or Maes Howe
Maeshowe is a Neolithic chambered cairn and passage grave situated on Mainland. It was probably built in around 2800 BC. It gives its name to the Maeshowe type of chambered cairn, which is only found in Orkney.
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Standing Stones of Stenness & Ring of Brodgar
Two Henges (or sets of standing stones) in walking distance of each. Catch them at sunset or early evening when you will virtually have them to yourself. Amazing and so much more exciting than Stonehenge!
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Skara Brae
The best preserved stone age village in Europe: an extraordinary insight into life 5000 years ago.
Ness of Brodgar Cottages and Holiday SelfCatering
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Lower Midgarth, Orkney Isles - Sleeps 7
Croft on Mainland, Orkney in 2.5 acres of ground with panoramic views. Sleeps 7