Standing Stones of Stenness
About
The Standing Stones of Stenness form a spectacular Neolithic henge located on a promontory in the Orkney Islands, just five miles northeast of Stromness. The site consists of an ellipse of standing stones, some up to 5 m (16 ft) high, originally part of a stone circle that once spanned a 32‑metre (105‑ft) diameter platform. Among the most striking features are the Watch Stone to the north‑west—standing 5.6 m tall—and the Odin Stone, a ritual stone that once featured a hole and was used by locals for engagement gestures. The stones lie near the watery borders of Loch of Stenness and Loch of Harray, and they are set within the broader Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site, which also includes the nearby Ring of Brodgar, Maeshowe, and Skara Brae. Managed by Historic Environment Scotland, the site welcomes visitors year‑round and offers a unique, unobstructed view of ancient stonework in a dramatic coastal landscape, making it a bucket‑list destination for history lovers, archaeologists, and nature‑centric travellers alike.
Highlights
- Standing Stones Circle
- Watch Stone
- Odin Stone
- Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Status
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Pros & Cons
What visitors love
- Free Admission
- Historical Significance
- Breathtaking Scenery
Things to consider
- Limited Onsite Facilities
- Crowds in Peak Season