Skara Brae Prehistoric Village - Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Skara Brae Prehistoric VillageModerate
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Category

Exploring

Typical Duration

30 minutes

Difficulty

Moderate

Nearby Experts

Photo Gallery

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village - Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village - Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village - Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village - Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village - Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village - Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

About This Landmark

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Skara Brae, located in Sandwick, Stromness, UK, unveils the mysteries of a civilization lost to time. Nestled on the coast of the Orkney Islands, this Neolithic settlement dates back over 5,000 years, predating even Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids. Uncovered by a storm in 1850, the site reveals a cluster of remarkably well-preserved stone houses, offering rare insight into ancient domestic life.

The village’s architecture showcases stone furniture, including beds and dressers, still intact within the shelter of earthen embankments. This ancient habitation suggests a sophisticated community adapted to the harsh northern climate. Skara Brae’s unique preservation owes much to being buried in sand for millennia, protecting it from the elements.

Visiting Skara Brae offers a journey into the distant past, where visitors can walk among the ruins, feeling a connection to the ingenious people who once inhabited this land. The visitor center enhances the experience with interactive exhibits and artifacts, providing a comprehensive understanding of the site’s significance.

Experience this remarkable glimpse into ancient life at Skara Brae and step back in time.


Adventure Guide to Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Key Features

  • Location: Sandwick, Stromness KW16 3LR, UK
  • Highlights: Well-preserved Neolithic stone houses, ancient furnishings.
  • Visitor Center: Offers exhibits and information about the settlement.

Local Insights

  • Historical Context: Skara Brae is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Cultural Tips: Embrace the Orkney dialect and local traditions to enhance your visit.
  • Interesting Fact: The site was rediscovered after a strong storm in 1850 shifted sand dunes.

Visitor Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early autumn for mild weather.
  • What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing.
  • Directions: Approximately 30 minutes by car from Kirkwall. Follow signs for the B9055 to the site.

Visitor Tips:
  • Best Times: Late Spring to Early Autumn for cooler temperatures and amazing lighting.
  • What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, and a camera!

Location

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village in Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Coordinates: 59.0488, -3.3417

Ratings

Overall

9.3/10User rating

Photography

7.0/10Scenic value

Reviews

Featured Activities

Primary Activity

Exploring

Also Great For

Essential Information

Nearby City

Stromness, Scotland

Protected Areas

Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site

Experience Level

Moderate

Experience Needed: This natural landmark is recommended for those with some outdoor experience. Good for regular hikers.

Nearby Adventures