History & archaeology
A place made over generations
The original ring held twelve stones around a large central hearth and was enclosed by a ditch and bank. It stands within the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site.
The hearth, ditch and surviving stone sockets demonstrate a carefully organised monument repeatedly used within a landscape that also includes Barnhouse, Maeshowe and Brodgar.
Stories, beliefs & mysteries
Meaning through time
Fire, gathering and movement between nearby monuments may all have mattered here, but the surviving evidence cannot identify one exclusive ritual purpose.
Later Orcadian traditions attached vows and ceremonies to individual stones, including the now-destroyed Odin Stone. Such accounts belong to the monument's much later history.
Plan a visit
Walk gently into the landscape
A small car park lies beside the site and access is short and fairly level. Conditions can be wet, windy and muddy, with no shelter at the stones.
Do not climb, move stones, light fires or leave offerings. Follow current access signs and take everything home.
Sources & further reading
Follow the evidence
Historic Environment ScotlandStones of Stenness↗This introductory record was last reviewed in August 2026. Access details can change; consult the site manager before travelling.
The marker shows the monument, not a parking space. A postcode is only a navigation aid; check current access and parking information before travelling.