Grey Cairns of Camster, Caithness

Historic Site in Caithness

A Neolithic Burial Long Cairn At Camster
CC BY-SA 2.0 / David Shand

The Grey Cairns of Camster are one of the must-see places in Caithness for anyone fascinated by prehistoric Britain. Hidden in the wild, peat-rich landscape between Watten and Occumster, these remarkable Neolithic tombs—comprising a round cairn and a long cairn—offer an unforgettable step back more than 5,000 years. Built around 3500 BC, they are among the best-preserved chambered cairns in the British Isles, their eerie passageways and stone chambers still echoing with the stories of ancient communities.

A great place to visit on a walking tour of Caithness, the cairns remain surprisingly quiet despite their importance. Their remote setting, careful restoration, and atmospheric interiors make them one of the most rewarding archaeological sites in northern Scotland.

History and Significance of the Grey Cairns of Camster

Constructed around 3500 BC, the Grey Cairns of Camster belong to Scotland's earliest known farming communities. These Neolithic people built monumental stone tombs for burial and ritual, returning to them over several centuries. The round cairn contains a central chamber that still retains its original corbelled roof—an exceptional survival. Excavations uncovered pottery, flint tools, human remains, and burnt bone, all of which shed light on complex funerary practices.

The long cairn, even more imposing, stretches across the landscape with two distinct burial chambers hidden within its stone mass. The design suggests that the cairn evolved over time, possibly reflecting changing beliefs or community needs. Both cairns were carefully restored in the 20th century to stabilise the structures and allow safe access for visitors.

Today, the site is cared for by Historic Environment Scotland. Its remote location and exceptional preservation make it one of the most evocative prehistoric monuments in the UK, offering insight into a world that predates Stonehenge by centuries.

Things to See and Do in the Grey Cairns of Camster

Visitors can enter the cairns through low, narrow passages—an immersive experience that gives an extraordinary sense of ancient ritual life. Inside the round cairn, the central chamber opens up beneath the original stone roof, creating a dramatic contrast with the confined passageway. Torches or phone lights are recommended to illuminate the space and appreciate the craftsmanship of its dry-stone walls.

The long cairn, with its twin burial chambers, offers an equally compelling exploration. The scale of the structure becomes clear when walking along its exterior, while stepping inside brings you into cool, silent passageways that have sheltered human stories for millennia.

The surrounding landscape adds to the atmosphere: a quiet, windswept moorland of peat and heather, little changed in thousands of years. It’s easy to imagine the Neolithic communities who once lived, farmed, and buried their dead here.

How to Get There

The Grey Cairns of Camster lie on the minor road between Watten and Occumster and are most easily reached by car via local roads branching from the A99 or A882.
Visitors arriving by train can travel to Wick Station or Georgemas Junction and continue by taxi toward the cairns. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Regional flights to Wick John O'Groats Airport provide additional access to Caithness. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Caithness on Booking.com.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Grey Cairns of Camster

  • Best time to visit the Grey Cairns of Camster: Spring to early autumn for easier access and clearer weather.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free.
  • Opening hours: Open year-round; best visited in daylight.
  • Official website: Refer to Historic Environment Scotland for site information.
  • How long to spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Accessibility: Access passages are low and narrow; not suitable for all visitors.
  • Facilities: None on-site; nearest facilities are in Lybster, Wick, and Watten.
  • Photography tip: Capture the cairns against the moorland backdrop in soft evening light.
  • Guided tours: Occasionally offered by local archaeology groups.
  • Nearby food options: Available in nearby Watten, Lybster, and Wick.

Where to Stay close to the Grey Cairns of Camster

Wick makes an excellent base for visiting the cairns and other Caithness sites. A comfortable option is Mackays Hotel, offering welcoming hospitality. For a quieter coastal stay, consider The Granite House, conveniently placed for exploring the area. Travelers seeking a scenic retreat can try The Norseman Hotel, close to key attractions and the Caithness coastline.

Is the Grey Cairns of Camster Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. These ancient monuments offer one of the most atmospheric and informative prehistoric experiences in Scotland. Their exceptional preservation, immersive interiors, and remote setting combine to create a visit that feels both educational and profoundly moving.

FAQs for Visiting the Grey Cairns of Camster

Can I enter the cairns?
Yes, both cairns are accessible, though the passages are low and narrow.

Is the ground around the site boggy?
It can be—waterproof shoes or boots are recommended.

Are the cairns suitable for children?
Yes, but supervision is essential, especially inside the passages.

Is lighting provided inside the cairns?
No, bring a torch or use a phone light.

How remote is the site?
It feels very remote, with no facilities nearby, adding to its atmospheric setting.

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The Grey Cairns of Camster appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Caithness!

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Visiting Grey Cairns of Camster

Caithness: 18 km

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