Description

The monument comprises features of prehistoric date which are situated in a meander on the E side of the Whaness Burn on Hoy.

A broad mound is occupied by an enclosure measuring 11.4m from N to S by 11.9m transversely, defined by a low bank. On the S, where the mound has been disturbed by an unrecorded excavation, there are several erect slabs indicating the presence of a structure of prehistoric date. About 16m S of the mound there is a single upright stone, 0.9m high; this is on the line of a sub-peat dyke which seems to complete the enclosure formed on two sides by the burn.

The area to be scheduled is subcircular on plan, measures a maximum of 45m N-S and 40m E-W and is bounded on its W side by the Whaness Burn. It includes the enclosure, adjacent features and an area around in which remains associated with their construction and use may survive, as marked in red on the accompanying map extract.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance because it comprises prehistoric structures, probably of Bronze Age date, which have the potential to provide information about prehistoric settlement and economy. Although the remains are enigmatic, their significance is enhanced as one of a group of related monuments around the Whaness Burn.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as HY 20 SW 4.

References:

RCAHMS (1946) The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland. Twelfth report with an inventory of the ancient monuments of Orkney and Shetland, 3v, 110, No. 384, Edinburgh.

RCAHMS (1989) The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland. The archaeological sites and monuments of Hoy and Waas, Orkney Islands Area, The archaeological sites and monuments of Scotland series no 29, 13, No. 11, Edinburgh.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland