The name 'Carn Liath' translates from Gaelic as 'Grey Cairn'.
Excavations in the late 19th century recovered a bronze spiral ring, glass beads, and a Roman coin.
The central wall contains a 'guard cell' or small chamber accessible from the internal courtyard.
The site was partially cleared and 'restored' in the 1880s by the Duke of Sutherland, which significantly altered its original archaeological context.
The surrounding outer wall, or 'ditch and bank' system, likely served as defensive protection for the settlement inhabitants.
Carn Liath Broch is a remarkably well-preserved Iron Age drystone tower located in Sutherland, Scotland. Dating back to at least 200 BC, the structure features a double-walled design with a central courtyard and an internal staircase. Excavations have revealed it was occupied sporadically until at least the 4th century AD. The site includes a surrounding settlement of secondary stone structures, including circular huts and enclosures. It stands as one of the most accessible examples of a broch in Northern Scotland. The masonry remains reach heights of over three meters in certain sections. The site is managed by Historic Environment Scotland.
From the elevated grass bank south of the structure to capture the full circular footprint and the surrounding coastal landscape.
Bring waterproof footwear as the ground surrounding the ruins can be soft and muddy.
Use the provided information panels at the site to interpret the complex layers of wall construction.
The site is exposed to high winds; windproof layers are recommended regardless of the season.
Attempting to climb the unstable upper sections of the masonry.
Open year-round, but access can be restricted during extreme weather conditions common in winter months.
Do not climb or lean on the drystone walls, as they are fragile and pose a safety risk.
