Unstan
Chambered Tomb
HY 283 117
Just off the A965, 3 miles NE of Stromness. Signposted but very limited parking spaces. No entry charge.
This cairn is situated on a promontory of the Loch of Stenness and was first excavated in 1850. It has now been capped with a concrete dome. The mound was built of concentric rings of dry stone walling around the central chamber which is divided into sections by upright slabs. A side chamber also leads from the central chamber.
Bones were found in each section and side chamber along with fragments of up to 30 bowls. The design of this chamber is very similar to the Tomb of the Eagles but just has less side chambers.
It is in very good condition and the modern roof has windows in it so you don’t need a torch. On the side chamber lintel (left side) there is a Viking carving of a bird (which hasn't shown up in the photo).
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