East Aquhorthies Stone Circle
- Oct 21
- 2 min read
East Aquhorthies Stone Circle is one of Scotland’s best-preserved recumbent stone circles, offering mystical ambience, panoramic views, and easy access near Inverurie.
Highlights
Complete Recumbent Stone Circle: Unlike many sites, East Aquhorthies retains its full ring of stones, including the massive recumbent stone flanked by upright grey granite pillars.
Unique Stone Selection: Most stones are pinkish porphyry, but the recumbent is red granite from Bennachie, and one is red jasper—suggesting symbolic or aesthetic choices.
Historic Preservation: A dry stone wall built in the 1800s protects the circle, giving it a “dish-like” feel and helping preserve its structure.
Spiritual Setting: The site offers expansive views eastward and aligns with Bennachie’s Mither Tap, adding to its mystical appeal.
Practical Information
Location: West of Inverurie, Aberdeenshire. Follow brown tourism signs from the A96; final approach is via a rough farm track.
Parking: Small car park available near the site (fits 4–5 cars). Look for the Historic Scotland sign at the gate.
Access: Free to visit year-round. Short walk from the car park via a tarmac road and track.
Managed by: Historic Environment Scotland. Info board available at the entrance.
Tips for visitors
Best Time to Visit: Spring to autumn for clear skies and good light—ideal for photography and sketching.
Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes; the final track can be muddy or uneven.
Combine with Nearby Sites: Pair with a visit to the Maiden Stone or Bennachie trails for a full day of myth and landscape.
Respect the Site: It’s a scheduled monument—no climbing or stone moving.
Ferghas' Adventures
Ferghas tiptoed into the stone circle just after sunrise, the grass still damp with dew. He circled the great recumbent stone, whispering greetings to each upright as if they were old friends. “You’ve stood longer than kings,” he said, placing a pebble at the base. A breeze stirred, and the stones seemed to hum. Ferghas smiled, pulled out his sketchbook, and began to draw not just what he saw, but what he felt ancient quiet, watching eyes, and a coo curled in the centre, dreaming of stars.
Surrounded by fields, my cuppa tea 🐮