Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Location

About

Skara Brae is a prehistoric village located in Sandwick, Orkney, Scotland, that offers a unique and fascinating insight into the lives of our ancient ancestors. As a tourist destination, Skara Brae is an incredible opportunity to step back in time and explore the remarkable history of the island.

The village dates back over 5,000 years, and its ruins have been exceptionally well preserved due to the site's isolation and the protective covering of sand that has kept it hidden for centuries. Today, visitors to Skara Brae can see the village as it would have been, with stone walls, passageways, and furniture still in place.

The site is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, anthropology, or archeology. Visitors are taken on a guided tour of the village, led by expert tour guides who provide an in-depth understanding of the site's significance and the lives of the people who lived there. The tour is informative and engaging, and visitors can ask any questions they may have.

The village's remains offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of prehistoric people, with insights into their homes, their food, their tools, and their crafts. Visitors can see how the houses were built with stone walls, and how they were heated with central hearths. The furniture inside the houses has also been preserved, giving a sense of how people sat, slept, and worked.

The site also provides an opportunity to learn about prehistoric Scotland, including the way of life, the landscape, and the climate. The village's location on the shore is significant, as it would have provided easy access to food sources, and the tour guide explains how the residents would have fished and gathered food from the sea.

Skara Brae is an awe-inspiring and humbling experience that offers a unique look at our past. The site is also part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes other significant prehistoric sites on the island. Visitors to Skara Brae can also explore the nearby Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar.

In conclusion, Skara Brae is a remarkable tourist attraction that provides an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in history and archeology. The site is an opportunity to see a prehistoric village as it was thousands of years ago, and to learn about the lives of the people who lived there. The tour guides are knowledgeable and engaging, and the location is breathtaking, making it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Orkney.

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Things to do nearby

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village is a fascinating and unique destination in Scotland, located on the west coast of the mainland. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the lives of the prehistoric inhabitants of the Orkney Islands. While Skara Brae is the main attraction, there are also several other places to explore and things to do in the surrounding area. Here are some suggestions for tourists looking to make the most of their visit to Skara Brae Prehistoric Village.

Visit the Ring of Brodgar

The Ring of Brodgar is a Neolithic stone circle that is located just a short drive from Skara Brae. It is a stunning site, with 27 standing stones arranged in a circle that measures around 104 meters in diameter. The purpose of the ring is still unknown, but it is believed to have been used for religious or ceremonial purposes. The site is free to visit and is open year-round.

Explore the Orkney Museum

The Orkney Museum is located in Kirkwall, which is the capital of the Orkney Islands. The museum has a large collection of artifacts that were found in and around Skara Brae, including tools, pottery, and jewelry. It also has exhibits on the history and culture of the Orkney Islands. The museum is open year-round, and admission is free.

Visit the Standing Stones of Stenness

The Standing Stones of Stenness are another Neolithic stone circle that is located near Skara Brae. It consists of four large standing stones that are believed to have been part of a larger complex that was used for ritual purposes. The site is free to visit and is open year-round.

Take a Walk on the Beach

Skara Brae is located right on the coast, and there are several beautiful beaches in the area. Skaill Beach is the closest to Skara Brae, and it is a great place to go for a walk and take in the views of the sea. The beach is also popular with surfers, so if you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a surfboard and hit the waves.

Visit Maeshowe

Maeshowe is a Neolithic chambered tomb that is located just a short drive from Skara Brae. It was built around 2800 BC and is one of the finest examples of a Neolithic tomb in Europe. The tomb is open year-round, but you need to book a tour to visit.

Go Birdwatching

The Orkney Islands are a popular destination for birdwatchers, and there are several places in the area where you can see a variety of bird species. The Birsay Moors are a great place to go birdwatching, and you may be able to spot species such as curlews, lapwings, and red-throated divers.

In conclusion, Skara Brae Prehistoric Village is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in prehistory and archaeology. While the village itself is the main attraction, there are also several other places to explore and things to do in the surrounding area. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just want to relax on the beach, there is something for everyone in and around Skara Brae.