Clickimin Broch, Lerwick, United Kingdom

The Broch of Clickimin is a large and well preserved, though somewhat restored broch near Lerwick. Originally built on an island in Clickimin Loch (now increased in size by silting and drainage), it was approached by a stone causeway. The water-level in the loch was reduced in 1874, leaving the broch high and dry. The broch is situated within a walled enclosure and, unusually for brochs, features a large 'blockhouse' between the opening in the enclosure and the broch itself. Another unusual feature is a stone slab featuring sculptured footprints, located in the causeway which approached the site. Situated across the loch is the Clickimin Leisure Centre. The site is maintained by Historic Scotland.

According to its excavator Hamilton there were several periods of occupation of the site: Late Bronze Age farmstead, Early Iron Age farmstead, Iron Age fort period one (wall/blockhouse), Iron Age fort period two (plugging of the main entrance or landing stage), broch period, early wheelhouse settlement (inside the broch), late wheelhouse settlement (outside the broch). In 1989 Noel Fojut argued that Hamilton's schema was overcomplicated.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Yuliia Kabanets (8 months ago)
That's a must visit, I actually didn't get to see any other broch saved like this, and it's just in Lerwick. You can get inside the broch and walk around, there is no entrance fee.

M Graves (8 months ago)
Clickimin Broch A fascinating structure to explore! Just a short walk from downtown, this ancient structure should not be missed. If you are lucky enough to visit Lerwick by cruise ship, this is one of the sites that can be visited for free and is close enough to walk. There are multiple structures to be explored. Climb through ancient rock stairways, walk through tunnels and learn more about what life was like here nearly 2400 years ago.

Michael K (11 months ago)
Really interesting site. Lovely location next to the water. Some information boards about the archeology and interpretation which were informative. Tesco on hand must have been helpful for the residents.

Phil Oakland (12 months ago)
If you're arriving into Lerwick from a cruise, don't take the much longer 'scenic' walk to the Broch. Just follow the main road and the walk is about 30 mins. Free to loom around the Broch and get inside as well.

Paul Petyt (13 months ago)
The Broch of Clickimin is a mesmerizing archaeological site in Lerwick, Shetland. Stepping into this ancient structure feels like stepping back in time. The well-preserved remains offer a fascinating glimpse into Iron Age life in the region. Surrounded by scenic beauty, it's a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in Scotland's rich heritage. A truly memorable experience in the heart of Shetland!

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Photo from Flickr, copyright medioman

Historic Site of the week

Duino Castle

Duino Castle was built by the Wallsee family in 1389 on the cliffs overlooking the Gulf of Trieste. It replaced an older castle from the 11th century. Over time, the Wallsee family disappeared and the castle, after having been used as a prison, became the residence of the Luogar and Hofer.

At the end of the 19th century it became the property of Prince Alexander von Thurn und Taxis from the Czech branch of the House of Thurn and Taxis. It remains with the family to this day with his great-grandson Prince Carlo Alessandro della Torre e Tasso, Duke of Castel Duino the current owner. The castle has been opened to the public as a museum and park.

Clickimin Broch

Address

Details

More Information

Rating

Interesting Sites Nearby

User Reviews

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Finest Norman castles in Italy

Exploring the History of Northern Poland

Discovering Slovenia's Historic Wonders

Historic Site of the week

Duino Castle