Cairn of Humster

This is a another grassy mound, the broch having been robbed to death, but someone did have the foresight to build a cairn with broch stone to mark the site. It looks like it was a large military defensive broch possibly surrounded by an outer wall and a wide ditch or moat.

There are a few ways to gain access but parking is an issue. You may have to park in Wick or find somewhere in Newton and walk. It is a working farm, so asking someone in the area for advice on access might help. There were sheep in the field with the broch and they were among the most well cared for and happy sheep I've ever seen. One or two of them even allowed me to pet them and scratch their ears. I don't know who the farmer is, but he is a good man.

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

Cairn of Humster broch photographs

Cairn of Humster 01

Cairn of Humster 02

Cairn of Humster 03

Cairn of Humster 04

Cairn of Humster 05

Cairn of Humster 06

Cairn of Humster 07

Cairn of Humster 08

Cairn of Humster 09

Cairn of Humster 10

Cairn of Humster 11

Cairn of Humster 12

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.