South Ronaldsay, Orkney Isles
★★★★
Tomb of the Eagles closed as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and will remain closed throughout 2024. Discussions with local organisations about potential reopening are ongoing (last checked April 2024).
Right at the far, southern tip of South Ronaldsay, there are a couple of chambered cairns which offer something a little different to the rest of Orkney’s tombs. Tomb of the Eagles (which used to be known as Isbister Chambered Cairn) is the most popular site: thirty human skulls as well as the remains of fourteen sea eagles were found upon excavation by a local farmer in 1958 – did eagles have some sort of special significance to this tribe? The site is a scenic half mile walk, via a Bronze Age burnt mound, from the excellent visitor centre where not only can you view dozens of the artefacts found inside the tomb, but even hold some of them – a highly unusual experience on Orkney.
Location
O.S. Grid Reference: ND 462838
GPS coordinates: 58.738906,-2.930934
No public transport within 1 mi
Car park
Key info
Long-term closure
No price info available
