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Midhowe Broch

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs

Walking, Photography

Year round

Photo: Bob Jones via Geograph.org.uk

Midhowe Broch is a large, well-preserved Iron Age broch on the west shore of the island of Rousay in Orkney, standing on a narrow spit of rock between two coastal inlets. Inside the round drystone tower, whose walls still rise to about four metres, survive stone partitions, a hearth and a spring-fed...

3

Parking nearby

0

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

3 overnight parking

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Midhowe Broch?
Orkney's rugged island of Rousay holds this fascinating coastal site on its windswept shoreline. Walkers can catch a local ferry to the island before tackling the long hillside trail leading straight down to the wave-battered coast.

What type of place is Midhowe Broch?
Midhowe Broch is an Iron Age drystone tower house on the island of Rousay in the Orkney Islands.

When is the best time to visit Midhowe Broch?
Clear autumn mornings bring crisp, bright light that beautifully highlights the ancient stonework against the churning sea channels. Checking local ferry timetables before setting off remains essential regardless of the season because Atlantic gales blow up suddenly.

What can you do at Midhowe Broch?
Stepping inside the low entrance allows everyone to view an incredibly complex internal layout featuring an original cooking hearth and a stone water basin. People also enjoy standing on the dramatic promontory to watch the fierce tidal races crash against the rock defences.

How long should I spend at Midhowe Broch?
Allocating roughly an hour gives ample time to explore the defensive chambers and appreciate the remarkable Iron Age craftsmanship. Serious walkers often extend their trip to explore the surrounding coastal paths and nearby historical cairns.

Where do I park at Midhowe Broch?
Spaces are available for vehicles at three overnight parking spots close by. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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

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

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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