Ring of Brodgar
About
The Ring of Brodgar is a magnificent Neolithic stone circle situated on Mainland, Orkney, Scotland, just north‑east of Stromness. Covering an astonishing 104‑metre (341‑ft) diameter, it is the largest and most complete standing‑stone circle in the region. With a record of up to 60 stones – 27 of which still stand today – the monument is a testament to the engineering skill and ritual life of 3rd‑millennium BC communities. Recognised as part of the UNESCO World Heritage “Heart of Neolithic Orkney”, the site is famed for its almost perfect circular layout, its possible astronomical alignments, and its “Megalithic Yard” – a unit of measurement linked to surrounding prehistoric monuments. Visitors experience a living landscape composed of stone‑lined banks, a deep ditch, and connected to nearby sites such as the Standing Stones of Stenness, Maeshowe, and Skara Brae. The Ring of Brodgar offers a unique gateway into Scotland’s pre‑historic past and is freely accessible to the public throughout the year.
Highlights
- Stone Circle
- Megalithic Yard
- Astronomical Alignments
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring and Autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds, though the site remains open year‑round.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 2 hours