Colmeallie stone circle

Colmeallie stone circle sits on a hillside in Glen Esk and is an ancient ritual site with stones from two different periods. Today three larger stones from the outer ring and four smaller ones from the inner ring are visible, arranged across a space roughly 15 meters in diameter.

This ancient site was built in prehistoric times, but sections were dismantled later and taken for building materials. Records from 1853 tell us it was once far more complete before residents removed stones for construction.

The site displays a recumbent stone circle layout common to this region, where a horizontal stone is flanked by two upright companions. This arrangement reflects how ancient communities organized their sacred spaces.

The site lies roughly 8 kilometers north of Edzell Castle and is reached via a minor road connecting the B966 to Tarfside and Loch Lee. Plan your visit for clear weather and bring sturdy footwear, as the terrain around the stones can be uneven and muddy.

What sets this site apart is its dual-ring structure, which is rare in Scotland. Archaeological evidence shows the two circles were originally laid out concentrically, creating a more complex ceremonial design than typical stone rings.