Dunchraigaig Cairn: Scotland’s Ancient Burial Monument with Earliest Animal Carvings
Explore Scotland’s ancient Dunchraigaig Cairn, home to the earliest known prehistoric animal carvings and a unique Bronze Age burial site.
Dunchraigaig Cairn, located in Kilmartin Glen near Lochgilphead, is a remarkable Early Bronze Age burial site dating back around 4,000 to 5,000 years. This large cobble mound contains three stone burial cists, including one unusually holding remains of up to ten individuals. It is famed for the discovery of Scotland’s earliest known prehistoric animal carvings—depictions of red deer—etched beneath a massive capstone, offering a rare glimpse into ancient symbolic art and burial practices.
A brief summary to Dunchraigaig Cairn
- A816, Lochgilphead, Kilmartin, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit year-round as the site is always open and free of charge.
- Bring a torch if you plan to explore the cists closely, but note the southeastern cist with carvings is closed for preservation.
- Explore nearby prehistoric sites in Kilmartin Glen to gain a fuller understanding of the ancient landscape.
- Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven, possibly damp ground inside the cairn’s burial chambers.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Lochgilphead, expect a 15 to 20-minute journey via the A816 road. Parking is available roadside near the cairn, but spaces are limited and the area is rural with no formal parking lot.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Lochgilphead to Kilmartin village, approximately 5 km from the cairn. From Kilmartin, a taxi or a 1-hour walk over uneven terrain is required to reach the site.
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Walking
For walkers, a 3 km hike from Kilmartin village along rural paths leads to Dunchraigaig Cairn. Terrain can be uneven and muddy, so sturdy footwear and moderate fitness are recommended.
Dunchraigaig Cairn location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Dunchraigaig Cairn
A Unique Bronze Age Burial Site in Kilmartin Glen
Dunchraigaig Cairn stands apart from the other prehistoric burial cairns in Kilmartin Glen, a valley renowned for its dense concentration of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments. Measuring about 30 meters in diameter, this cobble mound dates from approximately 2100 BC and contains three distinct burial cists. Excavations in the 19th century revealed a range of burial practices, including cremated bones and full-body inhumations, with the southeastern cist notably containing the remains of up to ten individuals—a rare example of multiple burials in a Bronze Age cist. This diversity in interment methods highlights the cairn’s complex ritual significance within the prehistoric community.The Earliest Animal Carvings in Scotland
In a groundbreaking discovery made in 2020, archaeologists uncovered at least five prehistoric animal carvings beneath the capstone of the southeastern cist. These carvings, created by pecking into the stone, depict red deer stags with branching antlers and juvenile deer figures, making them the earliest known animal representations in Scotland’s rock art record. The figurative nature of these carvings is exceptional, as most prehistoric rock art in Scotland features geometric motifs. This find not only enriches understanding of Bronze Age symbolic expression but also suggests the animals may have held special significance, possibly symbolizing the elite status of those buried within.Context Within a Rich Prehistoric Landscape
Dunchraigaig Cairn is part of a broader prehistoric landscape in Kilmartin Glen, which includes a linear cemetery of five other cairns, stone circles, and numerous carved rock outcrops. The glen’s monuments and rock art collectively offer a window into the lives, beliefs, and social networks of early communities in western Scotland. Trade routes spanning Ireland, Wales, and northern England are evidenced by grave goods found in the cairns, indicating Kilmartin Glen’s role as a hub of cultural and economic exchange during the Early Bronze Age.Exploring the Cairn and Its Surroundings
The cairn is readily visible from the nearby car park and can be approached year-round without an entrance fee. Visitors can observe the exposed cists, though the southeastern cist with the animal carvings is closed to protect these fragile artworks. The surrounding area invites exploration of other prehistoric sites and rock art panels, including the nearby Baluachraig Rock Art, known for its cup-and-ring marks. Together, these features create an evocative setting that connects visitors to Scotland’s deep prehistoric past.Preservation and Significance
Efforts to preserve Dunchraigaig Cairn and its carvings are ongoing, with access restrictions on sensitive areas to ensure their protection. The cairn’s multi-generational cultural importance is recognized as part of Scotland’s heritage, offering invaluable insights into Bronze Age burial customs, artistic practices, and social structures. The discovery of the animal carvings has reshaped archaeological perspectives on prehistoric rock art north of the English border, marking Dunchraigaig as a site of national and international significance.Living Heritage and Natural Surroundings
The landscape around Dunchraigaig remains vibrant with wildlife, including red and roe deer, echoing the ancient carvings within the cairn. The natural environment enhances the atmosphere of the site, blending history with the rhythms of the present-day Scottish countryside. This living connection between past and present enriches the visitor experience, making Dunchraigaig Cairn a compelling destination for those interested in archaeology, history, and nature.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nether Largie Mid Cairn
1.5 km
Bronze Age burial cairn at the heart of Scotland's most significant prehistoric landscape, carved with rare axehead symbols.
Kilmartin Museum
2.1 km
Discover 12,000 years of history at Kilmartin Museum, where ancient artefacts meet the stunning prehistoric landscape of Kilmartin Glen.
About Argyll Walking Holidays
24.7 km
Explore Argyll’s stunning landscapes with expert guided walking holidays from Cairndow’s trusted outdoor activity organizer.
The Argyll Papers, Inveraray Castle
28.7 km
Explore over 700 years of Scottish history through the Campbell family’s extensive archive at Inveraray Castle.
McCaig's Tower & Battery Hill
33.5 km
Explore Oban’s iconic McCaig's Tower, a Colosseum-inspired folly with stunning views and tranquil gardens atop Battery Hill.
St John's Scottish Episcopal Cathedral : Oban
33.6 km
An unfinished masterpiece where Gothic ambition meets industrial-age engineering in Scotland's most unusual cathedral.
The Tinkers Heart
34.4 km
A heart-shaped quartz monument near Cairndow honoring the Scottish Traveller community’s heritage with stunning views over Loch Fyne.
St Conan’s Kirk
41.1 km
Discover St Conan’s Kirk, a unique architectural gem blending styles and history on the tranquil shores of Loch Awe.
Jura Boat Tours
42.5 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of the Isle of Jura with unforgettable boat tours.
The Whisky Island Gallery & Studio
42.5 km
Explore The Whisky Island Gallery & Studio for breathtaking art and photography that captures the spirit of the stunning Isle of Jura.
Colonsay Whale
42.5 km
A wild coastal formation where Scotland's seabirds and marine life meet rugged Atlantic beauty.
Jura Distillery
42.6 km
Explore the Jura Distillery on the Isle of Jura – a unique blend of whisky craftsmanship and breathtaking Scottish landscapes.
Isle of Jura Distillery Co
42.6 km
Explore the Isle of Jura Distillery: A Scottish gem where whisky craftsmanship meets stunning landscapes.
Loch Beg Bridge
43.2 km
An 18th-century stone crossing where Highland engineering meets island heritage and timeless landscape.
Ruvaal Lighthouse
44.3 km
Victorian lighthouse guarding the Sound of Islay, designed by the legendary Stevenson engineers in 1859.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nether Largie Standing Stones
0.9 km
Discover the ancient mystique of the Nether Largie Standing Stones, towering megaliths steeped in Neolithic mystery amidst Scotland’s lush Kilmartin Glen.
Nether Largie South Cairn
1.2 km
Explore the oldest chambered cairn in Kilmartin Glen, a 5,000-year-old prehistoric burial site rich with ancient history and ritual significance.
Dunadd Fort
3.2 km
Explore Dunadd Fort, ancient royal seat of Dál Riata, where history, legend, and panoramic views converge in the heart of Argyll’s Kilmartin Glen.
Moine Mhor National Nature Reserve
4.0 km
Explore Scotland’s ancient peat bog sanctuary, where wildlife thrives and 5,000 years of natural history unfold amid tranquil trails and wetlands.
Cairn from Auchoish
6.8 km
Explore the ancient chambered cairn of Auchoish near Lochgilphead, a serene window into Scotland’s Neolithic past.
Knapdale Scottish Beaver Trail
7.2 km
Discover Scotland’s pioneering beaver reintroduction project along an accessible trail through tranquil woodlands and lochs near Lochgilphead.
Craignish Point
7.9 km
A tranquil coastal headland offering breathtaking panoramic views and rich wildlife on Scotland’s scenic Craignish peninsula.
Heart of Argyll Tourism Alliance
9.2 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant community of the Heart of Argyll region.
Phare de Ruadh Sgeir
11.9 km
Experience the scenic beauty and historical significance of Phare de Ruadh Sgeir, a breathtaking lighthouse on Scotland's rugged coast.
Barnhill
12.8 km
Explore Barnhill, a historical landmark on the Isle of Jura, where nature meets literary history in a breathtaking Scottish landscape.
Kinuachdrachd Harbour
12.9 km
A remote Hebridean bay at the end of Jura’s only road, where wild coastlines meet the Sound of Jura and the legendary Corryvreckan whirlpool.
Carsaig Beach
13.3 km
A secluded Hebridean cove with dramatic arches, fossil-rich shores, and sweeping island views.
Glas Eilean
13.5 km
Historic lighthouse on Scalpay Island, a beacon of Scotland’s maritime heritage with striking red bands and rugged coastal charm.
Arduaine Garden
14.1 km
Explore Arduaine Garden’s exotic plants and stunning coastal views on Scotland’s west coast, a tranquil botanical haven nurtured by the Atlantic Drift.
The National Trust for Scotland
14.1 km
Discover the vibrant coastal beauty and exotic plant collections of Arduaine Garden overlooking the Sound of Jura near Oban.
Essential places to dine
The Smiddy Bistro
9.2 km
A cozy bistro in Lochgilphead serving homemade cakes, hearty lunches, and excellent coffee with vegan and gluten-free options in a friendly atmosphere.
The Tayvallich Inn
12.8 km
A charming seafood inn nestled on Loch Sween’s shores, blending local flavors with stunning harbour views and warm Scottish hospitality.
Restaurant at Loch Melfort Hotel
14.0 km
Savor inventive Scottish cuisine with stunning sea loch views at the acclaimed Restaurant at Loch Melfort Hotel in Arduaine.
The Oystercatcher
15.7 km
A charming seafood restaurant on Loch Fyne’s shore, serving fresh local catches in a relaxed, scenic setting in Otter Ferry.
Inver Restaurant & Rooms
17.4 km
Discover a refined Scottish dining experience with fresh local ingredients and cozy rooms on the tranquil shores of Loch Fyne.
Tigh An Truish
23.4 km
Charming inn and acclaimed restaurant with stunning views of the iconic Clachan Bridge, offering exquisite local cuisine and cozy accommodations.
The Anchorage Bistro
28.3 km
Experience fresh Scottish seafood in a cozy bistro setting on Tarbert’s charming Harbour Street, where local flavors meet modern cuisine.
Marine Bistro
28.3 km
Experience fresh local cuisine with stunning views at Marine Bistro in Tarbert - a must-visit culinary destination.
Samphire
28.6 km
Exquisite fresh seafood in a charming historic setting, Samphire offers a refined dining experience in the heart of Inveraray.
Cottage Restaurant
28.7 km
Cozy and charming dining in Inveraray with fresh local ingredients and warm, attentive service on Main Street West.
Ocho Inveraray
28.8 km
Unpretentious, flavorful dining in the heart of historic Inveraray with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Barn Bar
29.3 km
A rustic country pub at Cologin offering seasonal Scottish fare, cozy log fires, and lively local music near Oban.
Kilchrenan Inn
33.1 km
A cozy Highland inn blending rustic charm, hearty cuisine, and warm hospitality in peaceful Kilchrenan.
Food From Argyll at the Pier
33.1 km
A vibrant café at Oban’s ferry terminal serving fresh, locally sourced Argyll produce with stunning waterfront views.
Taste of Argyll Kitchen
33.3 km
Cozy Scottish kitchen in Oban serving fresh, local dishes with a creative touch and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ardfern Village Store
8.0 km
Charming village store offering local Scottish produce, essentials, and warm hospitality in the heart of Ardfern near Lochgilphead.
Bluestone Gift Shop
9.1 km
A charming independent gift shop in Lochgilphead, offering Scottish-made cards, jewellery, and souvenirs with a personal touch.
The Square Peg Gift Shops
9.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local Scottish charm at The Square Peg, Lochgilphead’s beloved creative gift shop in Colchester Square.
Argyll Gift Co
9.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and handmade treasures at Argyll Gift Co in Lochgilphead, your gateway to local culture and craftsmanship.
Tayvallich Village Shop
13.2 km
A welcoming village store offering local flavors and essentials in the heart of scenic Tayvallich, Scotland.
The Argyll Gift Co
28.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique local gifts in the cozy charm of Tarbert’s Argyll Gift Co.
Bonnie Argyll - Bespoke gifts and crafts from Scotland
28.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish craftsmanship and bespoke gifts in the heart of historic Inveraray at Bonnie Argyll.
Sid’s Vintage
28.7 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in the heart of Inveraray at Sid’s Vintage, where every piece tells a story.
The House Of Scotland
28.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and craftsmanship in the heart of Inveraray’s historic Main Street.
Kames Village Store
29.0 km
A friendly, well-stocked village store in scenic Kames, offering fresh produce and local specialties amid coastal charm.
Made in Argyll
33.1 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery, ceramics, textiles and art from Argyll’s makers in a bright, harbour-side craft shop in Oban.
McCaig's Warehouse
33.2 km
Discover quality Scottish clothing and unique gifts at McCaig's Warehouse, a welcoming boutique nestled in Oban’s Heritage Centre.
Highland Experience
33.3 km
Explore Highland Experience in Oban for unique Scottish clothing and accessories that reflect the rich culture and craftsmanship of the Highlands.
The Modern Croft
33.4 km
A bright, contemporary homewares and gift shop in Oban, showcasing beautiful craft and design from Scotland and beyond.
Bolliwood to the Smiddy
33.5 km
A warm, welcoming gift shop in Oban filled with handcrafted Scottish souvenirs and local crafts – perfect for meaningful keepsakes after exploring the coast.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Anderson Lounge
6.0 km
A cozy, rustic bar in Cairnbaan offering local craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere for travelers exploring the Scottish Highlands.
The Argyll Inn
9.5 km
A cozy local bar in Lochgilphead offering traditional Scottish hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere every day from noon to late evening.
The Oyster Bar
22.4 km
A charming seafood haven in historic Ellenabeich, offering fresh oysters, scenic coastal views, and warm Scottish hospitality.
The Clachan Bar
26.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish village hospitality and cozy charm at The Clachan Bar in picturesque Strachur.
The Corner House
28.3 km
A cozy and lively pub on Tarbert’s Harbour Street, famed for warm welcomes, quality drinks, and a true taste of Scottish coastal life.
Lorne Bar
33.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality, fresh local seafood, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Oban at The Lorne Bar.
Cellar Bar
33.5 km
Cozy and traditional Scottish pub on Oban’s waterfront, famed for local whiskies, live music, and warm hospitality.
The Tartan Tavern
33.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and traditional charm at The Tartan Tavern, a cozy and lively pub in the heart of Oban.
Markie Dans
33.8 km
Family-run pub in Oban offering vast single malts, hearty food, live music, and stunning bay views in a welcoming, lively atmosphere.
The Anchor Tavern & Hub
37.9 km
A welcoming community-owned pub and social hub with scenic coastal views in the heart of Port Bannatyne, Isle of Bute.
Argyll’s Social Club
39.1 km
Experience the lively heart of Dunoon’s social scene at Argyll’s Social Club, where local culture and entertainment come alive.
The Burgh Bar
39.3 km
Experience Dunoon’s vibrant social scene with local ales, lively events, and welcoming charm at The Burgh Bar on Queen Street.
Sinbad's
39.4 km
A lively, affordable pub in Dunoon with music, pool, and friendly locals in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
The Clansman Bar
39.4 km
A vibrant and welcoming pub in Dunoon, famed for its real ales, sunny beer garden, and lively weekend atmosphere.
The Victoria Bar
39.4 km
A charming and affordable pub in Dunoon offering warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere for relaxed evenings.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
