Whitegate Broch (Keiss North, White Broch, Wic 099 )

Along with Keiss and Kirk Tofts, these three brochs form a formidable triangular defence against any seaborne landings by Romans. I'm pretty sure archers could have easily reached the shoreline from the tops of this and the Keiss broch. It took sheer military genius to defeat the Romans, and it is very evident here even 2000 years later. Be careful on site so you don't go falling into any hidden passages or chambers among the grassy mounds.

Park somewhere out of the way near Keiss harbour, and the Keiss and Whitegate brochs are easily accessible nearby. There are fences around the sites, so use the gates rather than clamber over the fences and risk damaging them.

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

Whitegate broch photographs

Whitegate 01

Whitegate 02

Whitegate 03

Whitegate 04

Whitegate 05

Whitegate 06

Whitegate 07

Whitegate 08

Whitegate 09

Whitegate 10

Whitegate 11

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.