Ancient History in Scotland: Kilmartin Glen, Iona Abbey, Clava Cairns, and More
Get ready for an exciting adventure like no other as we embark on a journey through the mystical and sacred sites of Scotland! Strap in and join us on a pilgrimage that will ignite your sense of wonder and leave you in awe. From the captivating Kilmartin Glen to the mysterious Clava Cairns, the ancient wonders of Iona Abbey, the historic Battle of Bannockburn, and the enigmatic ruins of Skara Brae, we will be exploring the spiritual treasures that make Scotland truly extraordinary.
At Scotland’s Wild, our friendly, story-telling guides have led thousands of trips through Scotland. We share history, legends and tales to entice people to visit this incredible country!
If you’d like to check-out our selection of tours, from day trips to island hopping multi-day adventures - click here.
First stop: Kilmartin Glen!
Kilmartin is a village in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, renowned for its rich archaeological heritage and historical significance. Located in Kilmartin Glen, the area is home to one of the most important concentrations of prehistoric sites in Scotland, with over 350 ancient monuments within a six-mile radius.
These include standing stones, stone circles, burial cairns, and carved rock art dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. Among the most notable sites are the Temple Wood stone circles and the Nether Largie cairns. Kilmartin Museum, situated in the village, offers detailed exhibitions on the area's archaeological finds and history, providing context for visitors exploring the ancient landscape.
The village itself is small but picturesque, with a historic church and a carved gravestone collection. Kilmartin is a key destination for those interested in Scottish prehistory, archaeology, and early Celtic history.
Iona Abbey
Iona Abbey is one of the oldest and most important Christian sites in Western Europe, located on the Isle of Iona off the west coast of Scotland. It was founded in 563 AD by St. Columba, an Irish monk who brought Christianity to Scotland.
The abbey became a center of learning, art, and missionary activity, influencing the spread of Christianity throughout Scotland and northern England. It is also associated with the creation of the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript now housed in Dublin.
Despite being attacked multiple times by Viking raiders, the abbey remained a place of pilgrimage and spiritual significance.
Restored in the 20th century, Iona Abbey is now maintained by Historic Environment Scotland and the Iona Community, an ecumenical Christian group.
The site includes a beautifully preserved church, cloisters, ancient crosses, and a museum with carved stones and relics. Iona Abbey continues to be a place of worship, pilgrimage, and historical interest, attracting visitors worldwide.
Consider a visit to Iona and the Abbey, as well as Mull & the Highlands of Scotland on a private tour with Scotland’s Wild. Whatever your interest, we’ll create a custom tour to suit you and your travelling companions. Learn more here.
Clava Cairns
Clava Cairns is a well-preserved prehistoric burial site located near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands. Dating back approximately 4,000 years to the Bronze Age, the site consists of three circular burial cairns surrounded by standing stones.
These cairns are thought to have been used for ritualistic and funerary purposes by the region’s ancient inhabitants. The layout of Clava Cairns is aligned with the winter solstice sunset, suggesting astronomical significance in their design.
The site’s intricate stonework and atmospheric setting have inspired local legends and literary references, including influencing the fictional Craigh na Dun in the "Outlander" series. Managed by Historic Environment Scotland, Clava Cairns is free to visit and offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland's ancient past.
Battle of Bannockburn
The Battle of Bannockburn was a pivotal conflict in the First War of Scottish Independence, fought on June 23–24, 1314, near Stirling in Scotland. Led by King Robert the Bruce, the Scottish forces achieved a decisive victory against the English army commanded by King Edward II.
Despite being heavily outnumbered, Bruce’s strategic use of the terrain and effective deployment of schiltrons (formations of spearmen) helped neutralize the English cavalry's advantage. The battle solidified Robert the Bruce's status as King of Scots and significantly boosted Scottish morale. It also forced Edward II to retreat, marking a turning point in Scotland's struggle for independence.
The site of the battle is now home to the Bannockburn Visitor Centre, which features interactive exhibits and a monument commemorating this historic Scottish triumph.
Skara Brae
Skara Brae is a remarkably well-preserved Neolithic village located on the Bay of Skaill on the west coast of Mainland Orkney, Scotland. Dating back to around 3180–2500 BC, it is older than both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza.
The site was uncovered by a storm in 1850, revealing a cluster of stone houses linked by covered passageways. These dwellings feature stone-built furniture, including beds, shelves, and hearths, giving unique insights into the daily lives of its inhabitants.
Skara Brae is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site, which also includes Maeshowe, the Standing Stones of Stenness, and the Ring of Brodgar. Managed by Historic Environment Scotland, Skara Brae is open to visitors, with an on-site visitor centre providing context and exhibits related to this ancient settlement.
So, pack your sense of adventure and join us on this thrilling spiritual escapade through Scotland's sacred sites. It's a chance to connect with the past, discover hidden gems, and create memories that will stay with you forever.
Are you ready to unlock the secrets of Scotland's ancient past? Join us on a day trip to Kilmartin Glen and the Standing Stones here.
If you’d like a completely unique and personalised tour, consider taking a private tour with us. We’ll organise your trip and make sure it suits your preferences as best as possible. We can create your dream drip to Scotland! Get in touch with us here.