Mid Howe Broch and Cairn, Rousay

Summary

A circular walk packed with archaeological gems. Explore both the hugely impressive Midhowe stalled Cairn and Midhowe Broch before passing the remains of a 13th century ceremonial hall, 16th century church and ongoing dig site where neolithic and viking buildings are being uncovered.

Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

Rating

Terrain

Path, can be very overgrown in places along the shore, minor road

Public Transport

Ferry to Rousay from Tingwall, Mainland Orkney. Bus on Rousay every Thurs (book on 01856 821 360) or taxi minibus by arrangement.

Start

Midhowe Cairn parking, minor road NW Rousay. Open in Google Maps.

Walk Statistics

Distance: 5.25km / 3.25 miles
Time: 2 - 3 hours
Ascent: 103m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: HY375307

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Accommodation

Walk Description

User reports (1)

Stage 1

There is a parking layby on the road near Westside reached by following the B9064 west from the pier. From the parking area descend steeply across the fields on the signed path. The large building seen below was built after the excavation of the cairn in 1932 to protect it from the elements.

Stage 2

The cairn itself is large and well preserved, except for the lack of a roof. Large stone slabs create stalls within the large tomb and it is thought the dead were initially kept near the entrance and the bones later moved into the main body of the cairn once the flesh had rotted. This cairn dates from about 4000 years ago and the remains of over 25 people were found in it when the site was excavated by the then owner of Trumland House, Walter Grant in 1932. Cattle and sheep bones as well as antlers, fish bones and shells were also found here, suggesting either ritual feasting or that these items were placed with the bodies.

Stage 3

From the far side of the building it is only a very short walk to Midhowe Broch, sited right on the water's edge and dating back to the Iron Age. It would have been used as a fortified residence, there is an information board with a suggestion of how it may have looked when occupied. From the broch retrace your steps past the cairn building and continue along the coast on a faint path.

Stage 4

Pass the remains of Brough Farm and soon after head slightly inland through a kissing gate to soon reach the ruins of 16th century St Mary's Church built on the site of a medieval church. Go through the next kissing gate to return to the seaward side of the wall and pass the ruins of Skaill Farm. From here head towards the sea and go through a gap in the wall and bear left along the narrow and pebbly coastal path.

Stage 5

There is an occasional marker post as the route continues through grass and flag iris near the coast, passing through a gap in a stone wall. Pass the site of a current (summer months) archaeological dig at Swandro. Iron Age or 'Pictish' cellular buildings have been uncovered as well as the remains of a Viking hall.

Stage 6

Keep following the shoreline path until the buildings of Westness Farm are reached. Turn left before the first large barn to follow a farm track uphill. This leads up to the road and a house. Turn left at the road to return to the parking area, the good views across to Mainland Orkney are the reward for the gentle climb.

Route Profile

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