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The Braaid: Ancient Celtic and Viking Farmstead on the Isle of Man

Explore The Braaid, a rare Celtic and Viking farmstead revealing centuries of Isle of Man’s ancient rural heritage amidst scenic countryside views.

4.5

The Braaid is a remarkable archaeological site on the Isle of Man featuring the remains of an Iron Age Celtic roundhouse alongside two Viking longhouses. This farmstead, dating from around 950 AD to the 11th or 12th century, offers a rare glimpse into the island’s early settlement history, showcasing the coexistence of Celtic and Norse architectural styles in a rural setting overlooking Glen Vine. The site is open access and cared for by Manx National Heritage.

A brief summary to The Braaid

  • 5C4M+XFJ, Isle of Man, IM
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy footwear as the site is outdoors on uneven terrain.
  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stone remains and surrounding views.
  • Bring a camera for capturing the atmospheric ruins and scenic countryside.
  • Combine your visit with nearby heritage sites managed by Manx National Heritage for a fuller experience.
  • Respect the site’s open access status by not climbing on the stone structures.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Douglas, take the A24 towards Foxdale; parking is limited near the Braaid crossroads, from where a short walk leads to the site. Travel time is approximately 15-20 minutes. Note that parking is roadside and may be limited during peak seasons.

  • Bus

    Take the local bus number 4 running between Douglas and Peel, disembarking at the Braaid crossroads. From there, walk along the A24 towards Douglas for about 10 minutes to reach the site. Bus service runs regularly but check schedules for seasonal variations.

  • Walking

    For active visitors, a countryside walk from nearby Braaid hamlet to the site takes around 15 minutes over gentle terrain. The path is unpaved and may be uneven, so suitable footwear is recommended.

The Braaid location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions

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Discover more about The Braaid

Historic Roots of The Braaid

The Braaid is an ancient farmstead situated in the Isle of Man countryside overlooking Glen Vine. Originally, the site was believed to be a prehistoric ceremonial stone circle, but archaeological excavations revealed it to be the remains of an Iron Age Celtic roundhouse and two Viking Age longhouses. The roundhouse, approximately 16.5 metres in diameter, was constructed with large standing stones supporting stone walls and a turf roof. It likely served as a dwelling before later being repurposed as an animal pen when the Viking longhouses were built alongside it.

Viking Influence and Architecture

The two Norse-style longhouses date from around 950 AD and illustrate the Viking presence on the island. One longhouse was a large hall with curved external walls supported by timber posts, while the other was a smaller rectangular building, probably used as a byre for cattle or sheep. These buildings demonstrate typical Viking construction techniques, including thick stone walls with earth cores and turf and timber roofs. The scale and design suggest the farmstead belonged to a person of some importance during the Viking period.

Archaeological Significance and Excavation

Excavations in the 1960s clarified the site's dual Celtic and Viking origins, dispelling earlier theories of ritual use. The stone circle outline of the roundhouse and the foundations of the longhouses remain visible today, with some stones re-erected to mark the original structures. Despite the lack of extensive artifacts, the site provides valuable insights into early medieval rural life and settlement patterns on the Isle of Man.

Setting and Atmosphere

The Braaid is set in a tranquil rural landscape, offering scenic views over Glen Vine. The open-air site allows visitors to wander freely among the stone remains, fostering a sense of connection to the island’s distant past. The peaceful surroundings enhance the atmospheric experience of exploring a farmstead that was occupied for several centuries before falling into disuse.

Preservation and Public Access

Managed by Manx National Heritage, The Braaid is protected as a significant cultural asset. It is open year-round with free access, inviting visitors to explore this well-preserved example of Isle of Man’s Celtic and Viking heritage. Donations are welcomed to support ongoing conservation efforts and to help preserve the island’s unique historical and natural environment for future generations.

Context within Manx Heritage

The Braaid forms part of a wider network of archaeological sites and heritage attractions on the Isle of Man overseen by Manx National Heritage. It complements other historic sites such as Peel Castle and Castle Rushen, providing a deeper understanding of the island’s layered history from prehistoric times through the Viking Age and beyond. The site’s rural location between Braaid hamlet and Mount Murray makes it a distinctive stop for those exploring the island’s cultural landscape.

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