Stones of Stenness

Stones of Stenness is a stone circle on the Orkney Islands with four standing stones reaching about six meters in height. A rock-cut ditch approximately two meters deep surrounds these stones and marks the boundary of the original monument.

This monument was constructed between 3100 and 2900 BCE, making it one of the earliest henge structures in the British Isles. This early date shows it predates many other well-known megalithic monuments by centuries.

The name comes from Old Norse and means stone promontory, reflecting Scandinavian influence throughout the Orkney Islands. This linguistic heritage remains visible in place names and the character of the landscape today.

The site is located about ten kilometers from Stromness on route B9055 and is open year-round for visitors. Free parking is available, and the landscape around the stones is open and easy to walk through.

A rectangular stone structure at the center of the circle once served as a ritual hearth from ancient times. Burned bone fragments and pottery pieces discovered there suggest it was used for ceremonial purposes.

Location: Orkney Islands

Location: Stenness

Part of: Heart of Neolithic Orkney

GPS coordinates: 58.99389,-3.20806

Latest update: December 13, 2025 14:47