Memsie Round Cairn: Ancient Bronze Age Burial Monument
Explore the majestic Bronze Age Memsie Round Cairn, a monumental burial site standing strong for 4,000 years near Fraserburgh.
Memsie Round Cairn, near Fraserburgh in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is a massive and remarkably well-preserved Bronze Age burial cairn dating back around 4,000 years. Once part of a complex of three large cairns and numerous smaller monuments, it stands as the sole survivor in a landscape rich with prehistoric burial sites. This monumental stone structure offers a profound glimpse into ancient funerary practices and the region's prehistoric heritage.
A brief summary to Memsie Round Cairn
- Fraserburgh, Memsie, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the cairn is located in open agricultural land with uneven terrain.
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the cairn’s scale and rural setting.
- Bring water and snacks as there are no amenities directly at the site.
- Respect the monument by not climbing on the stones to help preserve this ancient site.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Fraserburgh town center to Memsie Round Cairn takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Parking is limited near the site, so plan to park on nearby roadside areas carefully without obstructing farmland access. The route is on rural roads with no public parking facilities.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Fraserburgh to nearby villages, but none stop directly at Memsie. From Fraserburgh, take a bus toward Lonmay or Strichen and arrange for a taxi or a 3-4 km walk on rural roads to reach the cairn. Bus fares typically range from £3 to £6.
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Walking
For those seeking a countryside walk, it is about a 4.5 km walk from Fraserburgh along quiet rural roads and fields. The terrain is uneven and may be muddy after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. This option offers a scenic approach but requires moderate fitness.
Memsie Round 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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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Memsie Round Cairn
Enduring Legacy of Bronze Age Burial Practices
Memsie Round Cairn is a monumental prehistoric burial cairn constructed approximately 4,000 years ago during the Bronze Age. It exemplifies the large round cairns built as burial and ritual sites in northeast Scotland. Originally, this site featured three large cairns spaced about 100 meters apart, accompanied by many smaller cairns, forming a significant ceremonial landscape. Today, Memsie Cairn remains the only surviving large cairn, preserving the memory of these ancient funerary traditions.Architectural Grandeur and Scale
The cairn measures roughly 25 meters in diameter and rises to about 4.5 meters in height, showcasing the impressive scale and skill of prehistoric builders. Its substantial size and preservation make it a splendid example of Bronze Age cairn construction. The cairn’s massive stone structure was designed to cover and protect burial chambers and likely served as a prominent landmark in the agricultural landscape surrounding Fraserburgh.Archaeological Insights and Historical Significance
Excavations and historical records reveal that the cairn was used for burial purposes, with human bones discovered within its structure. Evidence suggests that the site was in use from the Bronze Age well into the Medieval period, indicating its long-standing cultural significance. Historical accounts from the 18th century mention that one of the cairns was disturbed, uncovering burnt stones and human remains, which adds to our understanding of its ancient use and the rituals performed here.The Cairn in Its Rural Setting
Situated about 4.5 kilometers south-southwest of Fraserburgh, Memsie Cairn lies amidst open agricultural land, offering a tranquil and evocative setting. The surrounding fields once hosted multiple cairns, but Memsie stands as a solitary sentinel of this prehistoric landscape. Its rural location enhances the sense of stepping back in time to an era when these cairns marked sacred spaces within the natural environment.Preservation and Cultural Heritage Status
Memsie Cairn is a scheduled monument, legally protected due to its archaeological and historical importance. Its preservation allows visitors and scholars to connect with Scotland’s deep prehistoric past. The cairn’s enduring presence highlights the need to safeguard such ancient monuments, which provide invaluable insights into early human societies and their relationship with the landscape.Experiencing Memsie Cairn Today
Visitors to Memsie Cairn can appreciate the scale and craftsmanship of this ancient monument while enjoying the peaceful rural surroundings. The site invites reflection on the lives and beliefs of Bronze Age communities who constructed these enduring stone markers. Though no facilities are on-site, the cairn’s impressive form and setting make it a compelling destination for those interested in archaeology, history, and Scotland’s ancient heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eden Castle
28.0 km
Ruined Renaissance tower house overlooking river confluence, a scheduled ancient monument of Scottish gentry heritage.
Duff House Fishing Temple
28.5 km
An elegant 18th-century neoclassical fishing temple on the River Deveron, blending history, architecture, and tranquil riverside charm in Aberdeenshire.
The Plainstones (Center of Banff, UK)
28.7 km
Discover Banff’s historic Plainstones, where centuries-old carvings and heraldic symbols tell the story of Scotland’s coastal heritage.
Barra Hill
40.2 km
Explore Barra Hill near Inverurie, an ancient hillfort and historic battlefield offering panoramic views and a deep connection to Scotland’s past.
Durn Hill - Iron Age Fort
40.5 km
Explore Durn Hill, an ancient Iron Age fort with commanding views and rich archaeological heritage near Banff, Scotland.
Balquhain Stone Circle
44.9 km
Explore Balquhain Stone Circle, a rare Neolithic monument near Inverurie, revealing ancient ritual mysteries amidst Aberdeenshire’s serene landscape.
Dyce Standing Stones
50.1 km
Mysterious Pictish stones bridging pagan and Christian worlds, carved over 1,400 years ago.
Workers' Memorial
53.0 km
A solemn granite obelisk in peaceful Persley Walled Garden, honoring Aberdeen’s industrial workers who lost their lives.
Stone 45
53.5 km
A historical landmark preserving Aberdeen's heritage in the heart of Bucksburn.
The Powis Gates
54.0 km
Twin towers of Turkish-inspired design, built with slavery compensation in 1834.
Gallows Hill
54.7 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
55.0 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Rosemount Palace
55.2 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Codona's
55.4 km
Experience thrill and fun for the whole family at Codona's in Aberdeen, featuring rides, bowling, mini-golf, and much more.
Rosemount Place
55.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Aberdeen at Rosemount Place, a lively hub of shops, cafes, and local culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kinnaird Head Castle Lighthouse and Museum
5.9 km
Explore Scotland’s first mainland lighthouse nestled in a 16th-century castle, where maritime history and medieval heritage meet on the rugged Fraserburgh coast.
Museum Of Scottish Lighthouses
5.9 km
Explore Scotland’s pioneering lighthouse heritage and enjoy breathtaking coastal views at the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses in Fraserburgh.
Pitsligo Castle
6.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Pitsligo Castle, a historic Scottish stronghold with rich Jacobite heritage and stunning coastal views.
Rattray Head Lighthouse
14.0 km
Historic granite lighthouse standing tall amid rare dunes and sweeping beaches on Scotland’s rugged northeast coast.
Aden Country Park
14.1 km
Explore 230 acres of natural beauty, historic ruins, and family-friendly fun at Aden Country Park in Aberdeenshire.
Gardenstown Scotland
17.8 km
Discover Gardenstown: a historic fishing village nestled on Aberdeenshire’s cliffs, where stunning coastal views meet rich maritime heritage.
Gardenstown Harbour Office
17.9 km
Explore the historical charm of Gardenstown Harbour, a serene coastal gem in Aberdeenshire, where rich maritime heritage meets breathtaking landscapes.
St. John's Church & Kirkyard
18.6 km
Historic cliffside ruins commemorating a legendary 11th-century battle with stunning coastal views near Banff.
Peterhead Prison Museum
22.9 km
Step inside Scotland’s most infamous former jail for an immersive journey through crime, punishment, and history.
Macduff Marine Aquarium
27.0 km
Discover the vibrant marine life of Scotland’s Moray Firth at Macduff Marine Aquarium, home to the UK’s only kelp reef exhibit.
Bullers of Buchan
27.4 km
Explore a breathtaking 30-meter deep collapsed sea cave and vibrant seabird sanctuary along Aberdeenshire’s rugged northeast coast.
Temple of Venus
27.9 km
An elegant 18th-century folly with stunning panoramic views over Banff, Macduff, and the Moray Firth coastline.
Banff beach
28.4 km
Historic Banff Bridge Beach offers serene coastal views, rich heritage, and a timeless connection between Banff and Macduff.
The Spotty Bag Shop
28.4 km
A nostalgic discount shop and café in Banff offering eclectic goods and scenic dining with friendly service in a vibrant community setting.
Vanilla Ink The Smiddy
28.4 km
Discover Banff’s historic silversmithing heritage through expert-led jewellery and silversmithing workshops at Vanilla Ink The Smiddy.
Essential places to dine
Blakeshouse Lounge Bar & Restaurant
19.8 km
Authentic Scottish flavors and local brews in a cozy lounge setting nestled in the scenic Fisherie area of Turriff.
The Knowes Hotel, Restaurant and Function Suite
27.1 km
Charming coastal hotel in Macduff with stunning Moray Firth views, modern rooms, excellent dining, and versatile event spaces.
The Kastille
28.1 km
A vibrant blend of modern dining, lively bar, and nightclub experiences in the heart of Turriff.
Bridgeview Restaurant
28.4 km
Bright and welcoming restaurant in Banff offering traditional Scottish dishes with scenic views and family-friendly accessibility.
Indian Garden Restaurant and Takeaway
28.6 km
Authentic Indian flavours and warm hospitality await at Banff’s beloved Indian Garden Restaurant and Takeaway.
Market Arms
28.6 km
Experience the charm of Banff at Market Arms - where hearty meals meet local brews in a welcoming pub atmosphere.
Happy Palace
28.7 km
Savor authentic Chinese flavors at Happy Palace in Banff - where every dish tells a story of culinary excellence.
LightHouse Fish Bar
28.8 km
Savor traditional British fish and chips with a diverse menu in Banff’s cozy and welcoming LightHouse Fish Bar.
Fife Lodge Hotel
29.1 km
Charming 3-star country house hotel in Banff with friendly service, delicious dining, and beautiful garden views near scenic beaches and golf courses.
Rockfish
32.1 km
Savor sustainably sourced, fresh seafood in a cozy coastal setting with generous portions and friendly service at Rockfish, Whitehills.
Seafield Arms
32.3 km
Traditional Scottish hospitality on the Moray coast, where comfort meets genuine Highland welcome.
1236 Cave Bar at Meldrum House
36.8 km
Historic 800-year-old stone bar with award-winning whisky and casual Scottish dining at Meldrum House Country Hotel.
Eat On The Green
37.0 km
Experience refined Scottish dining with fresh local ingredients and impeccable service in the heart of Udny Green.
The Cock & Bull
42.7 km
A beloved Scottish gastropub in Balmedie offering award-winning food, cozy accommodation, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Beekie's Neuk
43.4 km
A beloved Newmachar pub serving hearty homemade Scottish classics in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with generous portions and good value.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Friends Gift Shop
14.1 km
Handcrafted local treasures in a scenic country park courtyard.
The Wee Shoppie
17.9 km
A friendly village shop in the heart of Gardenstown, perfect for essentials and a warm welcome on the Moray coast.
The Gift Co
21.6 km
Discover unique treasures and heartfelt gifts at The Gift Co, Peterhead’s charming boutique on Berryden Road.
Powell's Country Store
25.9 km
A charming Banff store blending toys, clothing, and hardware for a unique local shopping experience.
The Platform
27.6 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish fashion, and delightful café treats in Macduff’s charming old railway station turned lifestyle hub.
The Gift Alley
27.9 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Turriff’s charming Main Street.
Co-op Food - Banff - Bridge Road
28.3 km
Conveniently located on Bridge Road, Co-op Food Banff offers fresh local produce and essentials daily from 7 AM to 10 PM.
Oldanu
28.6 km
Discover a unique blend of local crafts and souvenirs at Oldanu, the charming gift shop in the heart of Banff, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Bargainland
28.6 km
Discover stylish homewares and unbeatable bargains in Banff’s welcoming Bargainland, a must-visit for quality and charm.
Ivy's Emporium
28.6 km
Discover timeless antiques and unique collectibles in the heart of Banff at Ivy's Emporium, a charming treasure trove for vintage lovers.
Tuleni
28.6 km
Explore Tuleni in Banff for a unique selection of stylish ladies' clothing, offering personalized shopping experiences in a charming boutique atmosphere.
The Gift Box
28.7 km
Discover unique, locally inspired gifts in the charming heart of Banff, Scotland’s historic coastal town.
Rebel Yells
28.7 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at Rebel Yells, a charming shop in Banff that celebrates local culture and style.
The Candy Box
28.7 km
A cozy family-run sweet shop in Banff famed for its diverse candies and exceptional ice cream treats.
Trend DIY
28.8 km
Discover a treasure trove of crafting supplies and unleash your creativity at Trend DIY in Banff, a must-visit for all DIY enthusiasts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Moray Ltd
27.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and local ales at The Old Moray Ltd, a traditional harbour pub in the heart of Macduff.
Castle Bar
28.8 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and local ales in the cozy, historic setting of Castle Bar in Banff.
The Railway Inn
28.8 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Banff offering friendly hospitality, extensive whiskies, and stunning harbour views.
Banff Springs Hotel
29.7 km
Experience timeless luxury and breathtaking mountain vistas at the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, the Castle in the Rockies.
The Craft - off-licence and Bar
35.6 km
A cozy village wine bar and off-licence in Pitmedden offering craft drinks, community spirit, and award-winning hospitality.
Spider's Web
50.0 km
A cozy and friendly pub in Dyce offering hearty meals, quality drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere near Dyce railway station.
The Distilling House
50.7 km
A welcoming airport pub celebrating Scottish whisky heritage with classic food, craft beers, and expert spirit knowledge.
Mains of Scotstown
51.4 km
A welcoming British pub in Aberdeen offering classic dishes, craft drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
Black Dog
52.0 km
A friendly, lively pub in Aberdeen’s Bridge of Don serving hearty British classics with great entertainment and welcoming vibes.
The Staging Post
52.9 km
A friendly and lively local pub in Bucksburn with great drinks, sports, and a family-friendly beer garden.
Rowan Tree Bar
53.4 km
Cozy Old Aberdeen pub pouring local ales, serving hearty Scottish dishes, and hosting lively events in a historic neighborhood gem.
St. Machar Bar
53.7 km
Authentic Old Aberdeen pub with award-winning whiskies, local cask ales, historic brewery mirrors, and hearty pub grub in a student-favored historic spot.
Craigenroan Bar
53.7 km
A cozy and welcoming pub in Buckie offering authentic Scottish ales, lively events, and a true community vibe.
The Bobbin
54.1 km
A lively, student-leaning King Street pub offering hearty pub grub, sports screens and good-value drinks from breakfast through late night.
Murdos Bar
54.6 km
A vibrant community pub in Aberdeen offering great food, live sports on multiple screens, a welcoming atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Deejays Nightclub
5.5 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Banff Town & County Club
28.8 km
Discover the heart of Banff at the historic Town & County Club, a social hub that celebrates local culture and community spirit.
Deveronside Club
29.3 km
A warm and lively social club in Banff offering great events, affordable drinks, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Purple Nightclub
55.1 km
Experience Buckie’s vibrant nightlife at Purple Nightclub, the ultimate destination for dancing, live music, and unforgettable late-night events.
Exodus
55.8 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
The Tunnels
55.8 km
Dive into Aberdeen’s underground nightlife at The Tunnels, where pulsating beats and intimate vibes create unforgettable nights.
CHEERZ
56.0 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
Venga
56.0 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at Venga, where retro beats, themed nights, and cocktails fuel unforgettable dances until dawn on vibrant Chapel Street.
Club Tropicana & Venga
56.1 km
Compact retro nightclub on Chapel Street with neon kitsch, themed nights and a late‑night dancefloor for nostalgic hits and loud, energetic DJ sets.
The Underground Klub
56.1 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Number 7 Club
56.1 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
Private Eyes
56.1 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
56.2 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
The Mask Club
56.2 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
491 Union Street
56.4 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at this top-of-Union-Street hotspot, where killer beats, craft drinks, and epic events light up weekends until dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
