Upper Borgue Stone Setting

One of the tallest standing stones in Caithness at a massive 3.7m high and 1.8m wide, this massive monolith (also known as the Old Man of Borgue) could be up to 5,000 years old! This is testament to the skills and ingenuity of ancient Caithness’ Neolithic inhabitants.

what3words Location

Distance

  • 0.7km

Parking

  • Park at the bottom of the road just off the A9.

Accessibility

  • Sturdy footwear recommended.
  • Not Wheelchair Accessible

Additional Information

At the northerly end of the moor at Borgue is a remarkable standing stone. Also known as the Old Man of Borgue, this massive stone slab rises to just under 4 meters high and 2 meters wide, tapering to a blunt point at its apex. Another smaller stone can be found a little further down the hill, indicating the previous existence of a larger stone setting.

If you choose to continue the walk, you are rewarded with spectacular views over to Morven and Scaraben in the distance, and the Berriedale Water glen snaking its way through the foreground. The large Burg Ruadh (‘red broch’) can also be found nearby, but is a challenge to reach across the moor.

You can find out more about Upper Borgue Stone Setting, as well as other archaeological and historical sites, on Canmore, Scotland’s historic environment record.

Did You Know?

Did You Know?

In local folklore, the stone was known as ‘The Old Man and the Dog’ because from afar, the standing stones together resemble an old man being followed by his dog over the fields – can you see them today?

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