A Circle of Mystery
Tucked away at the head of Loch Buie, beneath the brooding slopes of Ben Buie, lies one of Mull’s most enigmatic and atmospheric sites. This quiet field, scattered with ancient granite monoliths, holds the only known stone circle on the Isle of Mull. Consequently, the land still whispers of a prehistoric past that lingers in the air.
The Lochbuie stone circle remains the only complete stone circle on the Isle of Mull. It stands in a field beneath the gaze of Ben Buie, within the grounds of Lochbuie House. Ancient builders constructed the site during the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age, around 3000–2000 BCE. Furthermore, archaeologists believe it served a ritual or ceremonial purpose, possibly connecting to seasonal cycles or solar events.
Originally, nine granite slabs formed a ring approximately 12.3 metres in diameter. Today, eight stones remain standing, while a low boulder marks the original position of the missing ninth stone. The stones vary in height from 1.2 to 2 metres. Notably, the builders turned the flattest faces inward, which is a design feature common in other Neolithic circles that likely held symbolic meaning.
The site sits on level pasture, about 10 metres above sea level. Its placement between sea, mountain, and sky creates a powerful atmosphere. While the circle is modest in scale compared to mainland sites like Callanish, Lochbuie offers a rare and intimate glimpse into prehistoric life on the Hebridean fringe.
The Outliers: Alignments and Enigmas
Three outlying stones surround the main circle. Each stone occupies a significant position:
- 4.6 metres southeast: A pointed granite block, about 0.85 metres high, which perhaps marked a ceremonial boundary.
- 40 metres southwest: A dramatic 3 metre high monolith that tapers to a narrow top. Its alignment corresponds closely with the setting sun at the winter solstice. Therefore, this suggests a deliberate astronomical function.
- 115 metres southwest: A flat sided stone, now broken at the top. Its orientation aligns with the sunset at the winter quarter days in early November and February.
In addition, archaeoastronomical studies by Alexander Thom support these alignments. He noted that such outliers often marked solar or lunar events. Although we cannot know their exact purpose, the precision of their placement suggests that these ancient people possessed a sophisticated understanding of the landscape and sky.
How to Get There
As you drive toward Lochbuie on the single track road from the A849, the landscape opens into moorland just before the village. First, look for a small stone bridge to use as your landmark.
- Park just before the bridge where space exists for 1 or 2 cars.
- Next, locate the field gate on the left hand side with a sign for the stone circle.
- Go through the gate and follow the white marker stones across the open field.
- Because the ground is often wet and boggy, you should wear sturdy waterproof boots.
- Head toward a small grove of trees in the corner of the field and pass through a second gate.
- After passing a solitary standing stone, turn left.
- Finally, you will find the main circle in the northeast corner of the field, partially enclosed by rhododendrons.
Making the Most of Your Visit
The Lochbuie stones represent more than just archaeological curiosities. Instead, they form part of a layered landscape that includes:
- Moy Castle, a 15th century Maclaine stronghold.
- St. Kilda’s Church, a peaceful 19th century chapel.
- Laggan Sands, a sweeping beach perfect for a walk.
Whether you are a history enthusiast or a photographer chasing golden light, the Lochbuie Standing Stones offer a rare kind of stillness. Ultimately, it is a place where time seems to pause and the past feels much closer.
