Lochbuie Standing Stones, Isle of Mull

Historic Site near Isle of Mull

Mull Lochbuie Standing Stone
Mull Lochbuie Standing Stone
CC BY-SA 4.0 / PaulT (Gunther Tschuch)

The Lochbuie Standing Stones offer one of the most atmospheric glimpses into Mull's prehistoric past. Tucked away in a peaceful field behind Lochbuie House, this Bronze Age stone circle is one of the best places to visit in Mull for those interested in ancient history, archaeology, and scenic countryside walks. Surrounded by hills, sea views, and farmland, the site feels wonderfully remote, reminding visitors that Mull has been inhabited and ritualised for thousands of years.

The circle originally consisted of nine granite stones set in a ring around 12 metres in diameter. Today, most of the stones remain upright and intact, their flat faces turned inward, as they were placed around 4,000 years ago. Although one of the original stones was removed at some point, a low boulder now stands in its place to maintain the circle’s shape.

History and Significance of the Lochbuie Standing Stones

Dating from the Bronze Age, the Lochbuie stone circle is believed to have been used for ceremonial or ritual purposes, though its exact function remains unknown. Stone circles of this size and layout are found throughout Scotland, often linked to seasonal events, astronomical alignments, or community gatherings.

Mull, despite its size and history, has only this one known stone circle-making Lochbuie a particularly important archaeological site for the island. Its location on a fertile coastal plain suggests it may have been connected to early farming communities who settled here long before the Norse, the clans, or modern inhabitants left their mark.

The presence of Lochbuie House, a historic estate dating back centuries, adds another layer to the landscape, showing how different eras of Mull’s past overlap within a single area.

Things to See and Do in the Lochbuie Standing Stones

The stone circle itself is the highlight: nine granite slabs standing quietly in the field, with the tallest measuring around two metres. Their inward-facing orientation gives the circle a distinct sense of enclosure and purpose.

The walk to reach the stones is part of the charm. Passing Lochbuie’s shoreline, the grounds of Lochbuie House, and wide open farmland, the approach builds a sense of anticipation as the circle slowly comes into view.

The surrounding landscape is ideal for gentle exploration. Visitors can continue walking along the bay, look for wildlife, or simply sit near the stones and enjoy the peaceful, ancient atmosphere.

How to Get to Lochbuie Standing Stones

The nearest airport is Oban Airport on the mainland, with ferry connections from Oban to Craignure on Mull. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Isle of Mull on Booking.com.

There is no train service on Mull, but trains from Glasgow to Oban link directly with the ferry. From Craignure, the stone circle is accessible by car along the A849 and the Lochbuie road. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Travelling by car is the easiest option. From the A849, take the signposted road to Lochbuie, then park at the beach. A short walk along the shore path behind Lochbuie House leads directly to the standing stones.

Practical Tips on Visiting Lochbuie Standing Stones

  • Suggested tips: Wear waterproof footwear-fields can be boggy after rain.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and summer for clear paths and bright landscapes.
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Open year-round.
  • Official website: Consult Mull & Iona tourism sources.
  • How long to spend: 30-60 minutes.
  • Accessibility: Path can be uneven and muddy; not suitable for wheelchairs.
  • Facilities: Limited; nearest amenities in Craignure.
  • Photography tip: Capture the circle with the surrounding hills for scale and atmosphere.
  • Guided tours: Rare; most visitors explore independently.
  • Nearby food options: Light snacks available in season at Lochbuie; more options in Craignure.

Where to Stay close to the Lochbuie Standing Stones

Staying near Craignure or along the south coast gives easy access to Lochbuie. The scenic Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa is the closest full-service option. Further along the coast, Pennyghael Hotel offers a peaceful rural stay. Another option is The Ben More Lodge, located inland but within reach of Lochbuie and other southern attractions.

Is Lochbuie Standing Stones Worth Visiting?

Yes-this quiet, beautifully situated stone circle is one of the top sights in Mull for anyone interested in prehistory or scenic coastal walks. Its peaceful setting, ancient origins, and gentle approach path create a memorable and atmospheric experience.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (90)

Lochbuie Standing Stones sits off an unnamed road in Lochbuie on the Isle of Mull and is a small ring of granite monoliths set beneath the backdrop of Ben Buie; a small car park leads to a half‑mile, waymarked walk across boggy, waterlogged fields and working farmland (livestock includes Highland cows, regular cows, sheep and reported reindeer), so hiking boots are recommended and visitors should respect the animals and infrastructure.

Simon Mumford
2 months ago
"Make sure you park in the designated location, it'll be a half mile walk through a bit of a boggy marsh. You'll also be passing through a workingfarm so be respectful of the livestock and infrastructure...."
Daniel Parry
6 months ago
"Impressive collection of astrological stone circle and monolithic outliers. Fantastic if you’re into a bit of ancient stone bothering and megalithicsites generally. Set against the backdrop of Ben Buie. Small car park leads through several boggy fields of livestock including highland cows, regular cows. sheep, reindeer and possible goats. Avoid the cows (especially when with calf) if at all possible. Bog factor 8-10 out of 10 so hiking boots are essential. Path is waymarked by white stones, fairly easy going and flat - aside from livestock and bog. You will be greeted by the ruin of a croft house, then enter a field with a monolithic outlier stone approx 2m high and 1.5 wide. Further along the field, a group of 9 granite stones of varying sizes, in a circle of 12m diameter. Well worth the short walk, particularly if visiting the Old Post Office or Moy castle. No tickets etc required. Fairly flat, easy walk aside from bog...."
Dav Bon
a year ago
"A small ring of standing stones set to a beautiful backdrop. It’s a fairly short and easy walk to get to from the road although a bit boggy in placesas fields can be when it rains!. You start from a small parking area by a gate with a sign instructing you to follow the white stones through the fields to the circle. Definitely worth the time...."

FAQs for Visiting Lochbuie Standing Stones

Around 10-15 minutes from the beach parking area.
Yes-follow the path along the shore behind Lochbuie House.
No, the stones stand freely in an open field.
Yes, respectful access is permitted.
Yes, but keep dogs on a lead near livestock.

Nearby Attractions to Lochbuie Standing Stones

  • Moy Castle: A ruined 15th-century tower near Lochbuie.
  • Lochbuie Beach: A quiet bay ideal for picnics and wildlife spotting.
  • Carsaig Arches: Dramatic sea arches accessible via a rugged coastal walk.
  • Torosay Castle Gardens: Historic gardens near Craignure (seasonal).
  • Duart Castle: The restored fortress of Clan MacLean overlooking the Sound of Mull.

The Lochbuie Standing Stones appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Isle of Mull!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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