Discovered in 1984, the Barnhouse Settlement is a partially reconstructed Neolithic village that is estimated to have begun in 3300 B.C.
Remains of at least 15 houses were found that have similarities -- central hearths, beds built against the walls, and stone dresser -- to the more famous settlement, Skara Brae. Barnhouse differs from Skara Brae in that the houses are free-standing. Over the years, the site has been severely damaged by ploughing, so that only the bases of the houses are original.
Two houses at Barnhouse -- House Two and Structure Eight -- are larger and more elaborate, which has led to the theory that they were built to house an important personage.
The Barnhouse Settlement was abandoned by its inhabitants in 2600 B.C.
About the Barnhouse Settlement
Orkneyjar: Barnhouse Neolithic SettlementJourney to the Barnhouse Settlement The Barnhouse Settlement, accessible by a footpath from the Stones of Stenness, is located near the Loch of Harray off the B9055, which is off of the main Stromess-Kirkwall road (A965) in Mainland, Orkney, Scotland.
Ordnance Survey Map (HY307127)Visitors Information Visitors information may be found on the Orkneyjar website. General tourist information for Orkney may be found on the Visit Orkney website. Additional Photos of the Barnhouse Settlement
Descriptive Sign at the Barnhouse Settlement
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