Skara Brae

Skara Brae is a Neolithic settlement located on the Bay of Skaill in Orkney in Scotland. It was discovered in the winter of 1850 when a very bad storm hit Scotland and caused major destruction and over 200 deaths. An interesting point of note about Skara Brae is that it was inhabited before the Egyptian pyramids. It is regarded as one of the best preserved group of prehistoric houses in Western Europe. In 1850 it was uncovered by a storm and it gives an excellent demonstration of what life was like over 5,000 years ago. It was also constructed before Stonehenge. There is lots to see and do here including a prehistoric village and ancient homes fitted with stone beds, dressers and seats. There will be the opportunity to explore a replica house that allows visitors to explore the interior. It is believed that the last village inhabitants were around 2,500 BC, some people feel the reason for this were huge sandstorms engulfing houses. In the visitor centre, you will get the chance to learn all about the village through touch-screen presentations, quizzes and a chance to discover some artefacts from an archaeological excavations in the 1970s. Other highlights include the 17th century mansion, Skaill House, which is close to Skara Brae and also the beautiful variation of local birds and flowers.