Gailiable Broch (Gylable Burn)

This one is in full view of the Kilphedir broch not far down the Strath of Kildonan, and the Balvalaich broch just across the river. The Kilearnan Hill broch, just a short way further up the Strath, was also probably built in view of both the Balvalaich and this one. The broch was built on a low spur and has been robbed of most of its stone, and what remains is just a pile of rubble. The base footings of the outer and inner faces can be seen here and there through the rubble, giving an internal diameter of 8.5m and a wall thickness of 4.4m.

Access is from the single track road through Glen Loth and walking along a forestry track to the banks of the Gylable burn. The broch is just 100 yds downriver from where the track bends. The area from the track to the broch is rough walking, crawling with ticks, and there are deer fences to negotiate.

Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. © Crown Copyright. All rights reserved.

Gailiable broch photographs

Gailiable 01

Gailiable 02

Gailiable 03

Gailiable 04

Gailiable 05

Gailiable 06

Gailiable 07

Gailiable 08

Gailiable 09

Gailiable 10

Gailiable 11

Gailiable 12

Gailiable 13

Gailiable 14

Disclaimer: Some brochs were built with military defensive purpose, and as such can be situated in extremely dangerous areas, such as on the edge of cliffs and ravines. Additionally, these are Iron Age structures, most of them in ruins, and they are extremely hazardous, with crumbling stone walls and hidden chambers. Existing walls, lintels, and passages could collapse at any time. The information here is provided free but it is your responsibility to ensure its accuracy, ensure your own safety, and acquire permissions for access where necessary. Accessing brochs is done entirely at your own risk.