Excavation Iron Age ORCA Swartigill

Archaeologists back at Swartigill Iron Age site next week

The UHI Archaeology Institute begins its sixth season of excavation at the Burn of Swartigill on Monday, August 15.
The Swartigill site from above at the start of the 2021 season. (Bobby Friel)

The UHI Archaeology Institute begins its sixth season of excavation at the Burn of Swartigill on Monday, August 15.

The excavation, in partnership with the Yarrows Heritage Trust, has so far uncovered a complex of Iron Age structures, which are providing an important window into Iron Age society away from the monumental architecture of the brochs.

This season we will continue to reveal these structures and recover information about what life was like for the Iron Age people who lived there 2,000 years ago. Analysis of the remnants of day-to-day life will not only help us to understand the environment and economy of the site but potentially that of Iron Age Scotland in a much broader context.

Work under way to sample deposits in the burn section and investigate Structure A.

The 2022 excavations begin on August 15 and run until September 9.

The site is located near Thrumster, a few miles south of Wick. To get there take the Haster and Tannach road from Thrumster and look out for our signs just before the bridge crossing at the Burn of Swartigill.

There is limited parking at the roadside, so be cautious as you get in and out of your vehicles. The dig is a short hike across boggy moorland.

Visitors are welcome and tours are available.