top of page

Broch of Gurness

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs

Walking, Photography, Wildlife Watching

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Elliott Simpson via Geograph.org.uk

The Broch of Gurness is one of the best-preserved ancient settlements in Orkney, an Iron Age tower ringed by a whole village of stone houses, standing on a low headland looking across to the island of Rousay. At its centre is the broch itself, a massive round drystone tower that once rose perhaps te...

3

Parking nearby

0

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

3 overnight parking

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Broch of Gurness?
Orkney's west mainland holds this ancient coastal site right on the edge of the Eynhallow Sound. Anyone heading north from the main ports can follow the coast road to reach it.

What type of place is Broch of Gurness?
Broch of Gurness is an Iron Age settlement on Mainland Orkney in Scotland.

When is the best time to visit Broch of Gurness?
Spring through to autumn offers the most reliable weather for walking around these exposed coastal ruins. Mild summer days provide clear views across the water, though misty mornings add a brilliant atmosphere to the stone village.

What can you do at Broch of Gurness?
Walking through the maze of stone houses lets you explore the ancient heart of this historic village. Wildlife enthusiasts should bring binoculars to look for seals swimming in the fast tide off the headland.

How long should I spend at Broch of Gurness?
Allocating roughly an hour allows ample time to inspect the old stone hearths and take photos. A longer visit works well if you decide to pair it with a slow stroll along the nearby beach.

Where do I park at Broch of Gurness?
Spaces for three vehicles are available nearby, providing overnight parking on site. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Broch of Gurness?
There are no food spots recorded immediately near Broch of Gurness, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

Where can I stay near Broch of Gurness?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Broch of Gurness, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

Free UK Travel Guides

Planning a UK adventure? Download our free itinerary guides and hidden gem collections, completely free.

Last Updated:

02 July 2026

Logo RGB_White_Stacked.png

Download the app

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get all the latest updates regarding hidden gems and staycations plus much more!

Thanks for subscribing!

Cookie Policy

Connect with us

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Youtube
  • TikTok
bottom of page
UK Hidden Gems
UK Hidden GemsUncover the UK's best secrets on our app