Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle - a stone bridge over a river next to a lush green hillside
1 / 10

Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

Step back in time at Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle, a mysterious ancient monument set amidst the serene Aberdeenshire landscape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming nature, soft light

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle - a stone bridge over a river next to a lush green hillside

Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming nature, soft light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle, a mysterious ancient monument set amidst the serene Aberdeenshire landscape.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A place of quiet contemplation and historical wonder, offering a glimpse into Scotland's ancient past."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wear Sturdy Shoes

The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the site and surrounding paths. :athletic_shoe:

☀️ Pack for All Weather

Scottish weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and sun protection, even on seemingly clear days. :umbrella: :sunwithface:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Stone Circle

The Stone Circle

Center of the site

An ancient arrangement of stones, steeped in mystery and history. A truly captivating sight.

Surrounding Landscape

Surrounding Landscape

The area around the circle

Picturesque Scottish countryside offering a serene backdrop to the ancient monument.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during daylight hours for the best views and to appreciate the intricate details of the stone circle. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer visitors, enhancing the mystical atmosphere. Check local weather forecasts as conditions can change rapidly.

Respect the Site

Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle is an ancient monument. Please tread lightly, avoid touching or moving stones, and take all litter with you. Respecting the site ensures its preservation for future generations to experience its unique charm.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooming nature, soft light
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Do you want to visit a 400 year old bath and a fairytale Shell House? Come for a look 🧚🌿🌱 The Shell House is amazing and so intricately decorated 🐚🦪 #dunnottarwoods #dunnottar #shells #shellhouse #History #walkhighlands #aberdeenshire #walkwithme #fairytale #stonehaven #uniqueplaces #hiddengems #nature #Scotland
@emilyinscotland
51.4K likes • 444.4K views

🚶‍♀️ Wear Sturdy Shoes

The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the site and surrounding paths. :athletic_shoe:

☀️ Pack for All Weather

Scottish weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and sun protection, even on seemingly clear days. :umbrella: :sunwithface:

📸 Capture the Magic

The stone circle offers unique photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:

🗺️ Use Navigation

While the site is accessible, having a map or GPS can be helpful for locating it and exploring nearby trails. :world_map:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wear Sturdy Shoes

The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the site and surrounding paths. :athletic_shoe:

☀️ Pack for All Weather

Scottish weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and sun protection, even on seemingly clear days. :umbrella: :sunwithface:

📸 Capture the Magic

The stone circle offers unique photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:

🗺️ Use Navigation

While the site is accessible, having a map or GPS can be helpful for locating it and exploring nearby trails. :world_map:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle to be a site of quiet historical significance, offering a peaceful escape into Scotland's ancient past. While it may not have the grandeur of larger monuments, its mystique and the surrounding natural beauty are highly appreciated. Some visitors note the lack of facilities and the need for sturdy footwear.

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Historical intrigue
Scenic surroundings

What People Dislike

Limited facilities
Uneven terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The stone circle is located near Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire. Access is typically via local roads. It's recommended to use a GPS or navigation app, as signage might be limited. Parking is usually available nearby, but check local advisories before you go.

Public transport options to reach the immediate vicinity of Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle can be limited. It's often best reached by car. Research local bus routes from Stonehaven to get as close as possible, then be prepared for a walk.

The closest major town to Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle is Stonehaven. This charming coastal town offers amenities and is a good starting point for your visit.

While specific directions can vary, generally you'll head towards the area south of Stonehaven. Using a mapping service with the exact name 'Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle' is the most reliable way to navigate there.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle is an open-air historical site and typically does not require tickets for entry. It's a free-to-access monument.

As an outdoor historical site, Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle is generally accessible at all times during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times.

No, there is no admission fee to visit Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle. It is a freely accessible historical monument for everyone to enjoy.

While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the inability to fully appreciate the site's features in the dark. Daylight hours are best for exploration.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the ancient stone circle itself, a fascinating archaeological site. The surrounding Aberdeenshire landscape also offers beautiful views and a sense of tranquility.

A visit to Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle can be quite short, perhaps 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in history and photography. You might spend longer if you explore the surrounding area.

Typically, there are no facilities directly at Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle. You'll find amenities in the nearby town of Stonehaven.

Yes, children can visit Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle. It's a great opportunity to spark their curiosity about history and ancient sites. Ensure they are supervised and wear appropriate footwear.

The primary activity is exploring and appreciating the historical significance of the stone circle. It's also a great spot for photography, quiet contemplation, and enjoying the natural scenery.

📸 📸 Photography

The best times for photography are during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset. The soft, warm light beautifully illuminates the stones and the surrounding landscape, creating a magical atmosphere.

You can capture wide-angle shots of the entire circle against the landscape, close-ups of the individual stones, and atmospheric shots during sunrise or sunset. The interplay of light and shadow is particularly photogenic.

Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography at Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle. However, always be respectful of the site and avoid using drones without proper permissions.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full scope of the circle. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions during golden hours. Don't forget extra batteries!

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle can be a fascinating educational stop for families. Encourage children to imagine what life was like when the stones were first placed and what ceremonies might have taken place here. It’s a chance to spark their interest in history and archaeology in a hands-on way.

Practical tips for families: Ensure kids wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven. Bring snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Make it an adventure by turning the visit into a treasure hunt for interesting stones or natural features in the surrounding area. The nearby Dunnottar Woods, mentioned in some social media posts, could offer a more playful exploration if the kids need a change of pace.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

For solo travelers and hikers, Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle offers a peaceful and contemplative stop. The quiet atmosphere allows for personal reflection and a deep connection with the ancient landscape. It's an ideal spot to pause during a longer hike in the Aberdeenshire countryside.

Recommendations for solo visitors: Combine your visit with a walk along the coastal paths near Stonehaven or explore the trails in Dunnottar Woods. The solitude of the stone circle can be particularly rewarding for those seeking a moment of quiet amidst their travels. Always inform someone of your hiking plans and carry a fully charged phone.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Mystery of Old Bourtreebush

Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle is an ancient monument that whispers tales of prehistoric times. While its exact purpose remains a subject of speculation, such circles often served as ceremonial sites, astronomical observatories, or burial grounds for ancient communities. The stones themselves, weathered by centuries, stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time and the lives of those who erected them.

Archaeological significance is paramount here. Researchers believe the arrangement of stones may have aligned with celestial events, such as solstices or equinoxes, indicating a sophisticated understanding of astronomy by its creators. The sheer effort involved in transporting and positioning these large stones highlights the ingenuity and communal effort of ancient peoples.

Visiting Old Bourtreebush offers a unique opportunity to connect with Scotland's deep past. It’s a place to ponder the lives of our ancestors and the enduring mysteries of ancient landscapes. The site's relative quietude allows for a more personal and reflective experience, far from the hustle of modern life.

Exploring the Aberdeenshire Countryside

The area surrounding Old Bourtreebush Stone Circle is part of the beautiful Aberdeenshire landscape, known for its rolling hills, picturesque coastlines, and rich history. This region offers a wealth of natural beauty and historical sites that complement a visit to the stone circle.

Beyond the circle, consider exploring the nearby town of Stonehaven, famous for its dramatic Dunnottar Castle perched on a clifftop. The castle itself is a must-see, offering stunning views and a deep dive into Scottish history. The coastal paths around Stonehaven are also excellent for walking, providing breathtaking sea vistas and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

For those interested in more unique attractions, the nearby woods might hold hidden gems. While not directly related to the stone circle, places like Dunnottar Woods can offer enchanting walks, sometimes featuring unexpected structures like shell houses, adding a touch of fairytale magic to your exploration of the region. Always check local guides for the most up-to-date information on attractions and walking routes.

You may also like

1 of 2