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Broch of Gurness

Aikerness, Evie, Orkney
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Important notice

The visitor centre will be closed on Monday 22, Tuesday 23 and Friday 26 June. The rest of the site remains accessible. 

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Explore this impressive Iron Age complex - an icon of Orkney’s rich archaeological heritage.

This impressive Iron Age complex is one of the most outstanding examples of a later prehistoric settlement to survive in Scotland.

Today, visitors can soak up stunning views of the island of Rousay from the broch’s striking position by Eynhallow Sound and marvel at the completeness of Scotland’s best-preserved broch village. Iron Age artefacts are on display in the visitor centre on site.

There's plenty more to see nearby - Gurness is one of at least 10 brochs that line the shores of Eynhallow Sound.

Close-up of a stone wall within the broch ruins, showing tightly stacked slabs and weathered textures with patches of moss.
Snow-covered ruins of the Broch of Gurness with upright slabs and circular stone walls, set against a pale grey sky during snowfall.
Close-up view of stone walls forming narrow passageways and upright slabs within the broch ruins, showing rough textures and weathered surfaces.
A close-up shot if a wall in a chambered cairn. Flat, lichen-covered stones have been stacked on top of each other to create an ancient-looking but clearly very sturdy structure.

Discover more with the Orkney Digital Guide

Enhance your visit with videos, stories and 3D scans to help you uncover nearly 5,000 years of Orkney’s past.
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