Machrie Moor Stone Circles

Comprised of six stone circles, Machrie Moor is a collection of prehistoric monuments dating back to the Neolithic period and the early Bronze Age. They were found and first recorded in 1861 by Irish naturalist James Bryce, who numbered them from 1 to 5. In addition to the standing stones, there are hut circles, ancient cisterns and burial cairns on site. It is believed that the most prominent stone circles were strategically placed so as to be as widely visible from every vantage point nearby.  Rising starkly from the middle of rural fields, the three tallest pillars are made of red sandstone with the tallest at 18 meters. It is estimated that the stones were used for astrological purposes, often representing legendary figures in ancient folklore. The mystery and ancient history surrounding these stone structures makes for them particularly fascinating to visit. Summer Solstice is a notable time to see them, as they are specifically lit at sunrise at this time — which historians claim may point to their significance.

Practical Info

The stone circles are situated near the town of Machrie on the Isle of Arran in Scotland, just east of the Moss Farm.  Take the A841 north from the village of Blackwaterfoot. There is a short 1.5 kilometer walk from the road to reach the stones.