Knowe of Yarso Chambered Cairn

Step back over 5,000 years at Knowe of Yarso, a Neolithic chambered cairn on Rousay, revealing ancient communal burials and prehistoric Orkney life.

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Knowe Of Yarso

The Knowe of Yarso is a Neolithic chambered cairn on the island of Rousay, Orkney, dating back over 5,000 years. This ancient burial site contains remains of at least 29 people and 36 red deer, reflecting its communal use by early farming communities. Excavated in 1934, it forms part of a remarkable prehistoric trail alongside other cairns on Rousay, offering insight into Orkney’s rich archaeological heritage.

A brief summary to Knowe Of Yarso

Rousay, Orkney, Orkney, GB
Visit website
Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
Free
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

Wear sturdy footwear as the path to the cairn is well marked but steep in places.
Bring a camera to capture panoramic views of Rousay’s landscape from the hillside site.
Combine your visit with other nearby Neolithic sites like Midhowe and Taversöe Tuick for a full prehistoric experience.
Check weather conditions before visiting, as the hillside path can be slippery when wet.

Getting There

Public Bus

Take the local bus service from Kirkwall to Rousay, which runs several times daily with a journey time of approximately 45 to 60 minutes. From the Rousay ferry terminal, a taxi or local shuttle can take you to the Knowe of Yarso site. Bus fares range from £5 to £10 one way.
Car and Ferry

Drive to the ferry terminal at Tingwall near Kirkwall, then take the ferry to Rousay (about 20 minutes). From the ferry terminal on Rousay, the Knowe of Yarso is a short drive or taxi ride away. Ferry fares for vehicles and passengers typically cost between £15 and £25. Note parking availability at ferry terminals may be limited.
Walking

For active visitors staying on Rousay, walking to the Knowe of Yarso is possible via well-marked paths. The walk involves some steep sections and takes around 30 to 45 minutes from the main village area. Suitable footwear and moderate fitness are recommended.

Knowe Of Yarso location weather suitability

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Discover more about Knowe Of Yarso

Ancient Origins and Archaeological Significance

The Knowe of Yarso chambered cairn is a prehistoric burial monument situated on the island of Rousay in Orkney, Scotland. Dating from between 3500 and 2500 BC, it is one of the oldest known communal burial sites in the region. Excavations in 1934 revealed the remains of at least 29 individuals alongside the bones of 36 red deer, indicating the site’s use for ritual and funerary purposes over many centuries. Pottery fragments found within the tomb suggest that it remained in use until the late 2000s BC, highlighting its long-standing cultural importance.

Architectural Features and Layout

The cairn is a stalled chambered tomb, characterized by a long, rectangular structure divided into compartments or stalls. Originally covered by a grass mound measuring approximately 19 by 9.7 meters, the cairn now measures about 15.2 meters in length and 7.8 meters in width. It is aligned roughly northwest to southeast, a typical orientation for Neolithic tombs in Orkney. The design reflects the communal burial practices of small farming communities, with the stalls likely serving as separate burial spaces within the tomb.

Context within Rousay’s Prehistoric Landscape

Knowe of Yarso is one of at least 15 chambered tombs on Rousay, an island often called the 'Egypt of the North' due to its dense concentration of archaeological sites. Together with other notable cairns such as Midhowe, Blackhammer, and Taversöe Tuick, it forms part of a fascinating prehistoric trail that offers a glimpse into Neolithic life and death. These sites illustrate the social and territorial organization of early farming communities in Orkney, marking landholdings and serving as focal points for ritual activity.

Excavation History and Discoveries

The 1934 excavation was led by William Grant and James Callander, with detailed photographic documentation by David Wilson. This work uncovered the tomb’s structural details and the extensive human and animal remains within. The discovery of red deer bones alongside human remains is particularly intriguing, suggesting symbolic or ritual significance to the inclusion of these animals in burial rites. The excavation helped clarify the nature of stalled cairns and contributed significantly to understanding Orkney’s Neolithic past.

Visiting Experience and Setting

Situated on a hillside, the Knowe of Yarso offers scenic views across Rousay’s rugged landscape. The path to the cairn is well marked but can be steep in places, requiring a moderate level of fitness. The site’s tranquil atmosphere invites reflection on the ancient lives commemorated here. As part of the wider prehistoric trail on Rousay, it provides an immersive experience into Scotland’s distant past amid natural beauty.

Preservation and Cultural Heritage

Managed by Historic Environment Scotland, the Knowe of Yarso is protected as a scheduled monument. Its preservation allows ongoing study and public education about Neolithic Orkney. The cairn exemplifies the rich cultural heritage of the islands and remains a vital link to understanding early human settlement, burial customs, and community identity in northern Europe.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Knowe of Yarso Chambered Cairn

A brief summary to Knowe Of Yarso

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Public Bus

Car and Ferry

Walking

Knowe Of Yarso location weather suitability

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Discover more about Knowe Of Yarso

Ancient Origins and Archaeological Significance

Architectural Features and Layout

Context within Rousay’s Prehistoric Landscape

Excavation History and Discoveries

Visiting Experience and Setting

Preservation and Cultural Heritage

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

The Cannon

First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole

Churchill Barriers

John O'Groats Signpost

Duncansby Head Lighthouse

Dunnet Head Lighthouse

The Castle & Gardens of Mey

Duncansby Stacks

Above and Beyond Tours

Mary Ann's Cottage

Bucholie Castle

Castlehill Heritage Centre

Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))

Caithness Broch Centre

Harold’s Tower

Unmissable attractions to see

Knowe of Lairo

Taversöe Tuick

Broch of Gurness

Midhowe Tomb & Chambered Cairn

Midhowe Broch

Quern of Whisber

Knoe of Scabra

Hole of the Horses

RSPB Birsay Moors

Rendall Doocot

RSPB Scotland Cottascarth

Kirbuster Farm Museum

Castaway Crafts

Longaglebe Geo

Burroughston Broch

Essential places to dine

Eviedale Bistro & Bakehouse

The Smithy Cafe

The Skerries Restaurant

Leigh's Real Taste of Orkney

The Shore

Helgi's

Dil Se Restaurant

Busters Diner

Bothy Bar

Pomona Cafe

Twenty One

Trenabies Cafe Bistro

The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms

Empire Chinese Restaurant

Lucano

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The Orcadian Bookshop

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Aurora Jewellery