Ousdale Broch

Ousdale Broch is an Iron Age broch that dates back to the 3rd or 2nd century BC. It is located between the coastal villages of Helmsdale and Berriedale in Caithness and overlooks the deep ravine of Ousdale Burn.

For information, a broch is a type of Iron Age stone roundhouse that was used, it is thought, for the community to take refuge inside. Brochs occur only in Scotland and mainly in country’s north and west. It is thought at least 700 brochs once existed.

Following conservation and structural consolidation work on the Ousdale Broch between 2015 and 2020, this broch is considered to be one of the best brochs to visit in Caithness. It has an external diameter of 16 m and an extrance passage that contains two sets of door-checks and a guard cell.

The Ousdale Broch lies on the John O’ Groats Trail walking route between Inverness and John O’ Groats. Its viewing is recommended for all who are interested in hiking, archaeology and ancient Scottish history!