Broch Of Gurness Outdoors
A noted icon of Orkney?s rich archaeological heritage, the broch is one of the most outstanding surviving examples of a later prehistoric (Iron-Age) settlement that is unique to northern Scotland.
A uniquely Scottish monument
Brochs are unique to Scotland. There are over 500 of them, the vast majority spread throughout the northern and western Highlands and the islands. Many of these tall circular towers stood alone, but in Orkney they were generally surrounded by sizeable villages. The broch village at Gurness is one of the most impressive. It has also been archaeologically excavated, thus providing a more vivid impression of life in the Scottish Iron Age than other comparable sites.
Gurness Broch was probably the residence of the principal family of the community. It also provided the last defensive resort. Within its massively thick walls the broch originally had a single central hearth, a ring of stone-built cupboards around the wall, and a sunken water feature traditionally interpreted as a well. A spiral stair led up to upper levels in the tower and to the wall-head. When the broch began to collapse, this arrangement was altered. The ?well? was filled in and the interior refitted with new partitions. Most of what the visitor sees today dates from this secondary phase.
Attraction Details
For enquiries about Broch Of Gurness, please contact the attraction using the details below.
AddressNap, Burray, Orkney, Orkney, KW17 2SU
Opening timesN/a
Entry costs
Attraction typeOutdoors
Hotels near Broch Of Gurness
Staying overnight in Orkney?
Wondering where to stay that's close to Broch Of Gurness? We've teamed up with Booking.com to provide the best room rates for hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs near Orkney in Orkney.
Tangles & Kelpie
Tangles & Kelpie offers accommodation in Burray Village. Kirkwall is 11 miles away. All units have a flat-screen TV, DVD player, and CD player.
Sands Hotel
Set in a 19th-century building, Sands Hotel is situated along the shore of Scapa Flow in Burray village. It has a bar, a restaurant and beautiful sea views. The hotel overlooks Burray Harbour and Watersound Bay.
Murray Arms Hotel
Featuring free WiFi and a restaurant, Murray Arms Hotel offers pet-friendly accommodation in Saint Margarets Hope, 41 km from Thurso. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar. Free private parking is available on site.
Glenduron
Glenduron offers accommodation in Saint Marys in Orkney Islands. The property features views of the sea, Italian Chapel and the Churchill Barriers. Free private parking is available on site.
Corriemuir
Featuring free WiFi throughout the property, Corriemuir offers accommodation just 5 miles from Kirkwall. Free private parking is available on site. All rooms are fitted with a TV, DVD player and Nintendo Wii.
Highland Park House
Set in an impressive Victorian mansion with antique furnishings, Highland Park House is less than 10 minutes drive from Kirkwall town centre and airport..
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