Lochbuie Standing Stones: Ancient Bronze Age Circle on the Isle of Mull
Discover the Isle of Mull’s only stone circle, a Bronze Age monument aligned with ancient solar events, set beneath the majestic Ben Buie.
The Lochbuie Standing Stones form the only stone circle on the Isle of Mull, dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age (circa 3000–2000 BCE). This well-preserved circle of nine granite stones, about 12 metres in diameter, stands near the shores of Loch Buie beneath the imposing Ben Buie. The stones are believed to have had ritual, ceremonial, and astronomical significance, aligned with solar events like the midwinter sunset. Surrounded by a tranquil landscape, the site offers a rare glimpse into Scotland’s prehistoric past.
A brief summary to Lochbuie Standing Stones
- Unnamed Road, Isle of Mull, Lochbuie, PA62 6AA, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in spring or early summer for pleasant weather and fewer midges.
- Wear waterproof footwear as the ground can be boggy and slippery.
- Combine your visit with nearby Moy Castle to explore medieval history alongside prehistoric heritage.
- Bring a camera to capture the stones framed by the dramatic backdrop of Ben Buie.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Tobermory, the Isle of Mull’s main town, takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes. The route involves rural roads with limited passing places, so drive cautiously. Parking is available near Lochbuie House, but spaces are limited and can fill during peak season. No parking fees apply.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Tobermory to Lochbuie several times a day, with journey times around 60 to 75 minutes. Service frequency is limited, especially on weekends and off-season, so check timetables in advance. Walking from the bus stop to the stones involves a 10-minute flat walk over uneven ground.
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Walking
From Lochbuie village, the standing stones are accessible via a short 10 to 15-minute walk on mostly flat terrain. The path can be boggy and slippery in wet weather, so suitable footwear is recommended. The walk is suitable for most fitness levels but may be challenging for wheelchair users.
Lochbuie Standing Stones 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Lochbuie Standing Stones
A Unique Bronze Age Monument on Mull
The Lochbuie Standing Stones represent the only stone circle on the Isle of Mull, making them a uniquely significant prehistoric site in the region. Comprising originally nine granite stones arranged in an almost perfect circle about 12 metres (40 feet) across, the tallest stones reach approximately two metres (6.5 feet) high. One stone has been replaced in recent times by a rounded boulder, but the circle’s integrity remains largely intact. The stones’ flat sides face inward, focusing attention toward the circle’s centre, which may have been the focal point of ancient ceremonies or gatherings.Ancient Astronomical Alignments and Ritual Use
Archaeological and archaeoastronomical studies suggest that the Lochbuie circle was deliberately aligned with solar phenomena, particularly the midwinter sunset and other solar events such as the winter sunrise and summer sunset. This indicates that the site likely served as a calendar or ceremonial observatory, marking important seasonal changes for the community that built it. The stones’ placement within a rare patch of cultivable land hints at the significance of this location for early agricultural societies during the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age, roughly 3000 to 2000 BCE.Context Within the Landscape and Local History
Set near the sheltered shores of Loch Buie and overlooked by the rugged Ben Buie mountain, the standing stones are part of a larger prehistoric complex that includes nearby single standing stones and a kerb-cairn. The area was likely a hub of ancient activity, possibly connected to sea routes used by early mariners. The proximity of Moy Castle, a 15th-century tower house of the Maclaines clan, adds historical depth to the site, bridging prehistoric and medieval eras. The natural surroundings, including a burn flowing to the sea and original galley slips, enrich the sense of place and continuity.Visiting the Stones Today
The site is accessible by a short walk over fairly flat terrain, though the ground can be boggy in places due to the damp climate. Visitors can experience the stones in their natural setting without interpretive centers, allowing for a personal and contemplative encounter with Scotland’s distant past. Moss and lichen cover the stones, blending them harmoniously with the landscape. The peaceful environment, framed by the imposing Ben Buie and the nearby loch, creates a powerful atmosphere for reflection on ancient human life and their relationship with nature and the cosmos.Archaeological Significance and Ongoing Research
Lochbuie is considered one of the most complex prehistoric sites on Mull, with research highlighting its sophisticated geometric arrangements and solar alignments. It is part of a broader tradition of standing stones and stone circles in Scotland that express millennia of cultural and astronomical knowledge. While no significant archaeological finds have been uncovered at Lochbuie itself, the site’s layout and orientation provide valuable insights into the ceremonial and calendrical practices of Bronze Age communities.Preservation and Cultural Heritage
The standing stones are protected as a historical monument, with efforts to preserve their condition amidst natural weathering and environmental challenges. The site remains a vital cultural heritage landmark, connecting modern visitors with the island’s deep prehistoric roots. Its remote and tranquil setting invites an immersive experience of Scotland’s ancient landscape and enduring mysteries.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
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- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
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For the architecture buff
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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For the social media creator & influencer
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For the eco-conscious traveler
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For the kind of experience you’re after
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
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Location Audience
- Family Friendly
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- Vegetarian Friendly
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