Machrie Moor stone circles

With the remains of no less than six stone circles, Machrie Moor is the best known archaelogical site on Arran. This out-and-back walk visits several groups of atmospheric standing stones set amongst the bleak moorland.

Terrain

Good farm tracks and grassy footpaths.

Public Transport

Buses will stop at the car park on request.

Start

Car park 5km north of Blackwaterfoot on the A841. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Walk Description

Stage 1

The walk begins from a signed parking area on the A841 road, south of the bridge over the Machrie Water. Begin the walk by passing through the pedestrian gate and along the farm track through the green pastures.

Stage 2

The track dog-legs through a gate, and further on the first cairn is visible over a fence to the right. There is a detailed information board here, located close enough to the fence to negate the need to clamber over the remains. Continue along the path as the ruins of Moss Farm come into view, along with the double stone ring of Suide Choir Fhionn or Fingal's Cauldron Seat, named after the legendary warrior and giant Fingal.

Stage 3

Ignore the track leading towards the ruinous buildings and instead cross to a gate and two information boards off to the right, with views to the most impressive standing stones beyond. Head through the gate - there is a fine stone circle on the right here, whilst a path to the left detours out to a particularly impressive solitary stone.

Stage 4

Back on the main path, continue ahead to the finest group of three free-standing sandstone slabs the tallest of which is over 5 metres high. It is thought that the circles date back to 1600 - 1800BC, but excavations have revealed they may have replaced even earlier wooden structures. The moor is also dotted with hut circles and other remains. Goatfell is prominent in the distance.

Stage 5

Return by the same route.

Route: Phil Turner

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