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Author: Barry Pickard
Contents
Ever wondered about the hidden gems of Scotland's ancient history? As an avid explorer and history enthusiast, I'm here to guide you through the unique experience of visiting the Northeast of Scotland’s 'Recumbent Stone Circles.' Picture the crisp Highland air, the scent of wild heather, and the sight of these ancient stone circles standing quietly amidst the rugged landscape. Sounds intriguing, right? You’ve come to the right place to uncover the secrets of these fascinating prehistoric stone circles and discover why they are some of the best stone circles in Scotland.
I'm not just any traveller—I’ve spent years exploring Scotland’s historical sites, and I’m excited to share my personal journey with you. In this post, you'll discover why the Northeast of Scotland is the only place in the world, alongside the south-west of Ireland, where you can find these unique 'Recumbent Stone Circles.' I'll take you through my day trip, where I set out to connect with the ancient past, right here in my own backyard. You'll get all the tips you need to plan your visit and truly appreciate these monumental relics.
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Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting any of the standing stones of Scotland appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the stone circles of Aberdeenshire, or indeed, a general tour of Scotland.
What Are Recumbent Stone Circles?
So, what exactly is a 'Recumbent Stone Circle'? Let me paint a picture for you: these circles consist of several standing stones, with one large horizontal stone (the 'recumbent') flanked by two upright stones. These circles were built around 4,000 years ago, during the same period as Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Giza.
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What were stone circles used for?
Their purpose remains a subject of debate, but many believe they were used to track the moon's cycles and seasonal changes, serving as important tools for early agricultural societies. Keep reading to learn more about the best sites to visit and how to make the most of your journey through Scotland’s ancient history.
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Must-Visit Standing Stones of Scotland
East Aquhorthies Stone Circle
Just a short drive from Inverurie, the East Aquhorthies Stone Circle is one of the most well-preserved examples of recumbent stone circles in Scotland. Situated against the stunning backdrop of Bennachie, this site is easily accessible, with a car park and a short uphill walk. It’s an excellent starting point for your journey into Aberdeenshire’s stone circles.
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The Loanhead of Daviot
The Loanhead of Daviot Stone Circle stands out for its large recumbent stone encircling a ring cairn. This prehistoric stone circle is thought to have been a ceremonial site and possibly a cremation area. Its well-preserved structure offers a compelling window into the rituals and beliefs of ancient communities.
The Maiden Stone
While not a stone circle, the Maiden Stone, near The Chapel of Garioch (pronounced Gee-ree) is a fascinating addition to any Aberdeenshire itinerary. This 1,300-year-old Pictish stone stands 3 meters tall and features intricate carvings, including Pictish symbols and a possible biblical scene. Local folklore claims the stone was once a maiden turned to stone by the Devil, adding a touch of myth to its historical significance. However, others say it simply marked an ancient road connecting Aberdeenshire and Moray. I’ll leave you to decide which it is.
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Sunhoney Stone Circle
Located near the village of Echt, the Sunhoney Stone Circle is not signposted, but it is on Google Maps. Head west from the village of Echt, and just over a mile, you'll see a sign for Sunhoney Farm. Drive up past the farm and park up. There's a sign and a narrow track leading to a wooded hilltop and an atmospheric site, where history and mystery converge. The alignment of the stones suggests a connection to lunar cycles, adding to its allure as one of the best stone circles in Scotland.
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Cullerlie Stone Circle
As well as the recumbent stone circles, my day trip also took me to a regular stone circle at Cullerlie. The Cullerlie Stone Circle is unique for its valley location, which contrasts with the higher ground preferred for most prehistoric monuments. The eight stones here are thought to have surrounded a cremation area. The site’s serene setting adds to its charm, making it a highlight of any visit to the stone circles in Scotland.
Why Visit the Stone Circles of Scotland?
Exploring the ancient stone circles of Scotland offers a profound connection to the past. These megalithic stone circles, along with other archaeological sites in Scotland, provide invaluable insights into the lives, beliefs, and ingenuity of prehistoric communities. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a unique travel experience, these sites are sure to captivate your imagination.
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Tips for Visiting UK Stone Circles
Plan Ahead: Many sites are in remote locations, so it’s a good idea to plan your route and bring a map or GPS device.
Wear Comfortable Shoes:Â The walks to these ancient stone circles often involve uneven terrain.
Respect the Sites:Â These are historical treasures, so treat them with care to preserve them for future generations.
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Conclusion
The Aberdeenshire stone circles are a testament to the ingenuity and spirituality of our ancestors. Pack your walking boots, embrace the Highland spirit, and embark on a journey through Scotland’s rich past. The standing stones of Scotland are waiting to share their stories with you.
Hotels in Aberdeenshire
There is a good selection of accommodation within the city of Aberdeen that will meet all tastes and budgets. At the luxury end, the Malmaison Aberdeen is an excellent choice, while the Inn at the Park offers a good, affordable night's stay near the Duthie Park, while the Copthorne Hotel is centrally placed, just a couple of minute's walk from Union Street.
If you are looking for a hotel further out into the countryside of Aberdeenshire, there are plenty to choose from, such as the Banchory Lodge Hotel, the Macdonald Pittodrie House, and the Douneside House, with all three being close to a collection of stone circles.
Click on the underlined weblinks above to review these hotels and make your reservation.
Further Reading
Related Blog Posts
If you are interested in finding out more about ancient Scotland, please view the Tailor-Made Itineraries posts below:
Comment below and let me know what was your favourite Aberdeenshire stone circle.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting any of the standing stones of Scotland appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the stone circles of Aberdeenshire, or indeed, a general tour of Scotland.
Tailor-Made Itineraries posts every two weeks, and you can subscribe to the latest blog and newsletter here. Until then, happy reading and safe travels.
Barry
Contact Me: tailoritineraries@gmail.com
Tailor-Made Itineraries creates one-of-a-kind bespoke self-guided travel itineraries for adventurous and curious travellers.
These self-guided tours deliver a personalised and exciting holiday experience that takes the effort out of trip planning.
