Midhowe Chambered Cairn
What to expect on your visit
It is mostly not possible to walk through the cairn at ground level. However, from the high‑level walkways, visitors can enjoy a fantastic overview of Midhowe Cairn, looking straight down into this fascinating ancient burial site. The raised viewpoint makes it easy to spot the different stone chambers and offers an exciting way for visitors to explore while keeping the site protected.
Opening times and prices
Midhowe Chambered Cairn is free to visit and open year-round.
How to get here
The cairn is on the island of Rousay on the B9064, 5 miles from the pier. It can be reached by Orkney Ferries from Tingwall Terminal.
Access to the site is across steep agricultural ground. Strong footwear recommended.
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Journey Planners
Search for National Cycle Network routes with the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust.
Plan your journey by public transport using Traveline Scotland.
Address
Island of Rousay
Orkney
National Grid reference:
HY 404 279
Historic places nearby
Midhowe Broch
Visit a fortified Iron Age settlement dramatically positioned above the coast.
1 miles
Broch of Gurness
Explore Broch of Gurness: an impressive Iron Age complex, and an icon of Orkney’s rich archaeological heritage.
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Knowe of Yarso Chambered Cairn
This ancient structure on the island of Rousay, Orkney, was used for communal burial some 5,000 years ago.
3 miles
Blackhammer Chambered Cairn
Enter the chamber of a 5,000-year-old burial monument on the small Orcadian island of Rousay.
4 miles
Taversöe Tuick Chambered Cairn
Explore three tombs in one at this unusual Neolithic chambered cairn.
4 miles
Cubbie Roo's Castle and St Mary's Chapel
The Orkneyinga Saga records that a Norwegian named Kolbein Hruga built "a fine stone castle" on the island of Wyre in 1145.
6 miles
