π Burghead, Moray
β
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Any settlement on a headland as prominent as Burghead must surely have been a sought-after spot in times of old. The Pictish fort here is believed to have been the power base for the Fortriu region – a flourishing kingdom from the 4th to the 10th century – and was the largest of its era anywhere in Scotland. As modern Burghead developed, new houses and the harbour destroyed much of the fort, but some of the earthworks remain. A coastguard lookout has since been built on top, with a visitor centre where you can view a couple of the Burghead Bulls – stone carvings possibly representing a pagan bull cult – and perhaps spot marine life out in the firth. The fort’s well can also be visited – cared for by Historic Environment Scotland and featured here separately.
π Location
π Off Granary Street, Burghead village centre
π§ O.S. Grid Reference: NJ 108692
π°οΈ GPS coordinates: 57.703506,-3.497733
π Bus to Burghead
π Street parking
π Key info
β Fort is always open. Visitor Centre: afternoons, April to September
π« Free
π burghead.com