Clachtoll Broch: A Time Capsule of Iron Age Life on Scotland’s Coast
Explore Clachtoll Broch, a remarkable Iron Age drystone tower on Scotland’s coast, preserved by fire and time with stunning sea views.
Clachtoll Broch, perched on a rocky knoll overlooking the Bay of Stoer in northwest Scotland, is a remarkably preserved Iron Age drystone tower dating back around 2,000 years. This ancient roundhouse was a family home and farming base that met a fiery end circa AD 50, sealing a vivid snapshot of daily life within its collapsed walls. Today, visitors can explore its towering remains, original entrance, and learn about its rich archaeological finds amid stunning coastal scenery.
A brief summary to Clachtoll Broch
- Lairg, Clachtoll, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 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 coastal path to the broch involves rough and uneven terrain.
- Visit the interpretive materials on site to learn about the broch’s history and archaeological finds.
- Combine your visit with a walk to Clachtoll Beach to enjoy the white sands and scenic coastal views.
- Parking is available at Clachtoll Beach car park, signposted from the B869 road.
- Plan your visit during daylight hours as the site is outdoors and has no lighting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
-
Car
Drive via the B869 road to Clachtoll Beach car park, which is signposted and offers parking facilities. The journey from Lochinver takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. The road is single-track and requires careful driving. Parking is free.
-
Walking
From Clachtoll Beach car park, follow the coastal path marked ‘walkers welcome’ west and then north to the broch. The walk takes about 15 to 25 minutes over rough terrain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The path is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
-
Public Transport + Walking
Take a regional bus service to Lochinver, then a taxi to Clachtoll Beach car park (approximately 15 minutes). From there, walk along the coastal path to the broch. Public transport options are limited and infrequent, so plan accordingly.
Clachtoll Broch location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Windy Conditions
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Clachtoll Broch
An Iron Age Stronghold Frozen in Time
Clachtoll Broch is a striking example of a broch, a unique type of drystone roundhouse built in Scotland during the Iron Age, roughly between 600 BC and AD 400. Situated on a dramatic rocky promontory overlooking the Bay of Stoer, this broch once stood approximately 14 meters tall. Around AD 50, a catastrophic fire caused the broch to collapse, burying its interior under rubble and preserving an extraordinary archaeological time capsule. Unlike many brochs that show layers of long-term occupation, Clachtoll’s final destruction sealed a brief but vivid window into Iron Age life.Daily Life Revealed Through Excavation
Excavations led by the community group Historic Assynt have uncovered a wealth of artefacts within the broch’s remains, including iron tools, pottery linked to the Hebrides, cereal grains, animal bones, and a unique knocking stone used for processing barley. The large central hearth, a focal point of the home, provided warmth, light, and a social gathering place. The discovery of storage cells and guard cells within the broch’s thick walls reveals a sophisticated domestic layout, challenging earlier assumptions that brochs were primarily defensive structures.Architectural Ingenuity on a Challenging Site
The broch’s builders constructed a near-perfect circular tower on a steeply sloping rocky knoll, with a height that may have allowed multiple floors accessed by an internal staircase ascending clockwise. The floor was uneven and slanted, but was softened by a regularly replaced carpet of reeds and grasses, indicating careful attention to domestic comfort. Doorways and internal cells suggest a well-organized household economy centered on farming and grain storage, reflecting the community’s role in the wider Iron Age society.Conservation Amid Coastal Challenges
The broch’s exposed coastal location subjects it to ongoing erosion and weathering, threatening the fragile ruins. Over the past decade, Historic Assynt has led conservation efforts to stabilize and consolidate the site, balancing public access with preservation. Interpretive materials and guided tours help visitors understand the broch’s history and archaeological significance while enjoying the spectacular views of turquoise waters and rugged coastline.A Gateway to Heritage and Nature
Clachtoll Broch is a key highlight on the Coigach & Assynt Heritage Trail, linking ancient sites with breathtaking landscapes. The surrounding area offers scenic walks along the coast and to nearby Clachtoll Beach, known for its white sands and tranquil atmosphere. The site’s blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty makes it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.Visiting Today
The broch is freely accessible year-round, with parking available at Clachtoll Beach car park. The coastal path to the broch involves rough terrain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Visitors can explore the broch’s towering walls and original entrance passage while absorbing the stories of an Iron Age community preserved beneath the rubble for two millennia.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stoer Lighthouse
6.1 km
Experience a unique self-catering lighthouse stay with panoramic coastal views on Scotland’s remote and rugged Stoer Head.
Walkhighlands
63.1 km
Explore Scotland step by step with Walkhighlands, your comprehensive guide to hiking and walking routes across the Highlands and beyond.
Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
64.3 km
Scotland’s northernmost red-brick lighthouse, a historic beacon amid rugged cliffs and wild Atlantic winds on the Isle of Lewis.
Ardgay Bespoke Tours
67.7 km
Experience the Scottish Highlands like never before with personalized tours that celebrate nature, history, and culture in Ardgay.
historic scotland
75.4 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Old Ruins
79.4 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Rogie Falls
80.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rogie Falls, a stunning waterfall in the Scottish Highlands, perfect for hiking and nature photography.
Rubha Hunish
80.8 km
Explore Rubha Hunish, the northern jewel of the Isle of Skye, where breathtaking views and rich history come together in a stunning coastal experience.
Fyrish Monument
81.3 km
Historic stone monument atop Fyrish Hill blending Scottish resilience with colonial Indian inspiration and offering stunning Highland views.
Castle Leod
81.8 km
Explore Castle Leod, a stunning Scottish castle in Strathpeffer, rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking nature.
Duke Of Sutherland Monument
82.0 km
A towering Highland landmark blending breathtaking views with the complex legacy of the Duke of Sutherland’s era.
Calanais Standing Stones
82.2 km
Discover the ancient mystique of the Calanais Standing Stones, an extraordinary historical landmark on the Isle of Lewis, steeped in culture and beauty.
Clach an Tiompain
82.4 km
Explore Clach an Tiompain, a historic stone landmark in Strathpeffer, and immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Scotland's ancient past amidst stunning landscapes.
Eagle Stone Path
82.4 km
Explore the enchanting Eagle Stone Path in Strathpeffer - a historical landmark that combines natural beauty with rich Scottish heritage.
The Brother's Point
82.5 km
Explore Brother's Point on the Isle of Skye: A breathtaking coastal destination rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Clachtoll Beach
0.8 km
Discover the serene white sands and turquoise waters of Clachtoll Beach, a pristine Highland paradise rich in wildlife and ancient history.
Clashnessie Falls
2.9 km
Discover the tranquil 15-meter Clashnessie Falls and its wild Highland surroundings, where rugged beauty meets serene coastal charm.
Hermit's Castle
3.4 km
Discover the enigmatic Hermit's Castle, a tiny Brutalist bothy blending into Scotland’s rugged coast with a mysterious story and stunning views.
Achmelvich Beach
3.5 km
Discover Achmelvich Beach, a tranquil white-sand paradise with turquoise waters and rugged Highland beauty on Scotland’s iconic North Coast 500.
Achmelvich Bay
3.6 km
Discover Achmelvich Bay’s pristine white sands, vibrant watersports, and breathtaking Highland scenery on Scotland’s northern coast.
Old Man of Stoer
7.6 km
A towering Torridonian sandstone sea stack on Scotland’s wild northwest coast, famed for dramatic hikes, climbing, and stunning wildlife encounters.
Loch Assynt
18.4 km
A breathtaking freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands, framed by rugged peaks and historic castle ruins, perfect for nature and history lovers.
Assynt Viewpoint
18.8 km
Dramatic Highland peaks frame an ancient loch and castle ruins in Scotland's remote geological wonderland.
Kylesku Bridge
19.9 km
A visually striking curved concrete bridge in the Scottish Highlands offering stunning views and rich history along the North Coast 500.
North West Highlands Geopark
20.4 km
Explore ancient landscapes and geological wonders at Scotland’s North West Highlands UNESCO Global Geopark, where Earth’s history comes alive.
Allt Chranaidh Waterfall
20.6 km
Discover the dramatic beauty and serene wilderness of Allt Chranaidh Waterfall, a hidden gem cascading through the Scottish Highlands.
Ardvreck Castle
20.7 km
Explore the haunting ruins of Ardvreck Castle, a dramatic Highland landmark steeped in history, legend, and stunning lochside views.
Ardvreck Castle Waterfall
20.8 km
Discover the haunting ruins and cascading waterfall of Ardvreck Castle, where Scottish history meets breathtaking Highland nature.
Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve
24.0 km
Explore three billion years of Earth’s history at Knockan Crag, where ancient rocks and breathtaking Highland vistas reveal Scotland’s geological story.
The Bone Caves
25.5 km
Explore ancient limestone caves high in the Scottish Highlands, where Ice Age animal bones and stunning views tell a story of prehistoric wilderness.
Essential places to dine
Lochinver Larder
7.6 km
Savor handcrafted Highland pies amid stunning Scottish scenery in the welcoming village of Lochinver.
Delilah's
7.8 km
A lively, family-friendly Highland restaurant serving fresh, locally sourced seafood with stunning sea views and a buzzing atmosphere.
An Cala Café
8.0 km
Fresh seafood and hearty Scottish fare served year-round in a cozy café and bunkhouse nestled in Lochinver’s scenic Culag Park.
Eddrachilles Hotel
19.0 km
Charming Highland hotel with stunning sea views, authentic hospitality, and refined Scottish dining on the shores of Badcall Bay.
Kylesku Hotel
20.2 km
Experience Highland charm and fresh seafood with breathtaking views over Loch Glencoul at the welcoming Kylesku Hotel.
Scourie Hotel
20.6 km
A charming Highland fishing hotel on Scotland’s northwest coast, blending rustic tradition with cozy comfort and excellent local cuisine.
Shorehouse Restaurant
24.5 km
A cozy family-run seafood haven in Tarbet offering fresh catches, stunning Highland coast views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Dipping Lugger
35.1 km
An intimate, Michelin-recognized restaurant in an 18th-century harbour manse, serving inventive tasting menus of hyper-local seafood and game in the heart of Ullapool.
The Crask Inn
48.7 km
A remote Highland inn where simple rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and genuine hospitality meet wild moorland and Munro country.
The Pier
58.2 km
A charming lakeside café in Lairg offering local produce, panoramic Loch Shin views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Eleven Restaurant & Bar
60.9 km
A welcoming bar and grill in Stornoway offering classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a cozy atmosphere from morning till night.
Caladh Inn
60.9 km
Comfortable and welcoming inn in central Stornoway, blending local charm with convenient access to the Isle of Lewis’s highlights.
The Park Guest House & Restaurant
61.0 km
Charming central guest house in Stornoway offering cozy rooms, local dining, and easy access to Isle of Lewis attractions.
La Balena - Italian Restaurant
61.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh Hebridean seafood in a warm, family-run setting at La Balena in Stornoway.
Bridge Centre Cafe
61.3 km
Cozy cafe in Stornoway’s Bayhead serving fresh, hearty meals and local treats daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
London Stores
34.5 km
Discover local flavors at London Stores, the premier supermarket in Lairg, blending quality groceries with a warm, inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
The Captain's Cabin
35.0 km
Discover a cozy treasure trove of Scottish gifts, crafts, and friendly service at Ullapool’s charming Captain's Cabin.
Gairloch Gifts
56.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at Gairloch Gifts, your charming Highland stop on the scenic North Coast 500.
Sileas She-Liss
60.9 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at Sileas She-Liss, a charming boutique in Stornoway that celebrates local craftsmanship and style.
The Original Factory Shop (Co-op Stornoway)
61.1 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, beauty, and homeware all under one roof in Stornoway’s popular department store.
Bayhead Gift House
61.2 km
Explore the charming Bayhead Gift House in Stornoway for unique local crafts and souvenirs that celebrate the rich heritage of the Hebrides.
Hebridean Gifts
61.3 km
Discover authentic Hebridean crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant artisan scene.
Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock
61.3 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and exquisite SeaGlass jewellery inspired by the Isle of Lewis at Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock.
Celtic Clothing
61.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish heritage with bespoke kilts and Harris Tweed craftsmanship at Celtic Clothing in Stornoway.
Bonmarché
61.3 km
Bonmarché Stornoway offers stylish, affordable women's fashion in sizes 10-28, conveniently located on Cromwell Street in the town centre.
Peacocks
61.3 km
Affordable fashion for the whole family in the heart of Stornoway’s shopping district.
Nicolson & Co Ltd
61.3 km
Stornoway's trusted newsagent serving the Isle of Lewis since 1978.
Sardar & Sons
61.3 km
Discover quality clothing and distinctive hats for special occasions at Sardar & Sons, Stornoway’s trusted local fashion destination.
Tweedtastic
61.3 km
Authentic Harris Tweed and wool creations crafted with island heritage and warmth in the heart of Stornoway.
The Hebridean Hobby Centre
61.3 km
A cozy craft shop in Stornoway showcasing handmade Hebridean crafts, textiles, and local art – perfect for unique island souvenirs and creative inspiration.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Rip
54.5 km
A cozy bar on the Isle of Lewis where local culture, craft beers, and scenic beauty create a warm retreat for travelers and locals alike.
The Badachro Inn
59.7 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
60.8 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
McNeills
61.3 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
61.3 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
Artizan
61.3 km
Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
The Criterion Bar
61.4 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
THE HARBOUR BAR
61.4 km
A warm, inviting bar in Stornoway offering local brews, hearty Scottish fare, and live music in the heart of the Isle of Lewis.
Old Barn Bar
63.0 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
Cross Inn
63.1 km
A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.
Beinn Bar
75.0 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
Nanny's
77.3 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
Platform 1864
87.0 km
Historic charm meets contemporary dining at Platform 1864, Tain’s beloved bar and restaurant in a stunning old train station.
Rockvilla Hotel, Rooms, Restaurant & Bar - Lochcarron - NC500 Route
88.6 km
Charming Highland guest house with stunning loch views, excellent local cuisine, and warm hospitality on the NC500 route.
The Ship Inn
89.4 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality and home-cooked meals at The Ship Inn, your cozy retreat in Invergordon by the Cromarty Firth.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
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
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
