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Cuween Hill
Chambered Cairn
HY 364 128

Off the A965 just half a mile south of Finstown, the site and Wideforn Hill chamber are signposted. Drive up the rough lane and park in the area set aside near the farmhouse. You don’t need a key for this site now as it is unlocked and a torch is even provided in an honesty box which was very useful as out mini torch is not too effective. It is a short climb uphill and the tomb is well sited with good views of the surroundings.



This is an unusual tomb in that the skulls of 24 dogs were contained in it as well as the remains of at least 8 humans. The tomb has a rectangular main chamber about 3m by 1.5m with a cell leading off each side. One of the cells is divided into two and the walls are constructed using large thin flagstones as is the floor which is very smooth. The cairn now has a modern roof.

Chamber cells

 

Wideford Hill
Chambered Cairn
 HY 409 122

Off the A495, 2 miles west of Kirkwall, the site is signposted. From the Cuween sign carry on and watch for a left turn that is signed and drive uphill between farm buildings. Continue uphill until you reach the limited parking space (3 cars) and take the footpath for about ¾ mile through pleasant scenery.

The tomb’s construction has been exposed and it was built in a series of tiers on a manmade level platform on the hillside. This has a similar layout to Maes Howe having a rectangular chamber with three side cells leading from it. One of these cells is cut into solid bedrock. Entry was originally through a long narrow passage but it is now through a trapdoor and down a ladder directly into the small central chamber. There is not a lot of room to move and the side chambers are very small. The construction is very clear and the curving in towards the roof is impressive. One side chamber curves around almost with a concealed entrance to a further section. You need to squeeze a bit to see.

       

Original entrance passage and one of the side chambers

 

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