Standing Stones and Stone Circles of Kilmartin Glen

Glasgow , Scotland

Standing Stones and Stone Circles of Kilmartin Glen

Active

(5 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A superb day tour where we’ll take you on a journey through the history of Scotland. Explore one of Scotland’s richest prehistoric landscapes.

This area spans 5000 years with standing stones, stone circles, rock art, and the ancient hill fort of Dunadd.

Available options

Standing Stones and Stone Circles of Kilmartin Glen

What's included

Services of your Driver-Guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Transportation by mini coach

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We make our morning refreshment stop by the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond where you can soak in the beautiful scenery.

We will make a brief stop here at the viewpoint to take pictures.

You’ll have time to explore the ancient hill fort at Dunadd. Occupied since the Iron Age, it was once the capital of Dalriada one of the early kingdoms of Gaelic Scotland.

Around 800 ancient monuments exist within a six mile radius of Kilmartin village. You’ll have around 3 hours to explore this incredibly special place. We recommend starting at the Kilmartin Museum. Here you’ll find a vast array of ancient artefacts including quartz tools used to make prehistoric rock art.

Nearby is Kilmartin Parish Church where you’ll find a remarkable collection of early grave slabs. Some of these slabs are of early Christian design and others are medieval. Nether Largie standing stones and Temple Wood are within walking distance from the museum.

Temple Wood’s 13 standing stones is the picturesque setting for the best-preserved stone circle in Kilmartin Glen. The Temple Wood Stone Circle’s use began some time before 3000 BC and continued into the Bronze Age, ending around 1000 BC. A timber ring pre-dated the stone circle you see today by around 2,000 years.

Please note this stop may be shortened by 20 minutes in the winter months to accommodate the early sunset.

Passengers can opt to pay entry to Kilmartin Museum and learn more about the fascinating history of the area.

This massive rock outcrop is one of the finest examples of prehistoric rock art in Scotland. The carvings are extensive with spirals and massive multiple ring marks, some stretching a meter across. There will be time to explore and capture some photos of the historical site.

Please note this stop may be shortened by 10 minutes in the winter months to accommodate the early sunset.

We’ll have a break in the traditional county town of Inveraray for evening refreshments.

What's not included

Meals and Refreshments

Entrance to Kilmartin Museum (£16.00 per adult, £14.00 per senior/student, £6.60 per child)

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

We are unable to accommodate children under 5.

Meeting point

Our tours depart from between stance 23 - 32. Please check in 15 minutes before departure. The station information board will display the exact stance for the tour. If you do not arrive on time for check in you will unfortunately miss your tour.

About Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, is a vibrant urban hub known for its rich architectural heritage, thriving arts scene, and friendly locals. With a mix of grand Victorian and modern buildings, the city offers a dynamic blend of culture, history, and innovation.

Top Attractions

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

One of Scotland's most popular free attractions, this museum features a diverse collection of art, artifacts, and natural history exhibits.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Glasgow Cathedral

A stunning example of Scottish Gothic architecture, this cathedral is one of the few medieval buildings to survive in Glasgow.

Historical 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Riverside Museum

Award-winning museum showcasing Glasgow's rich transport and industrial heritage with interactive exhibits and historic vehicles.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Glasgow School of Art

A masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the Glasgow School of Art is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

Architecture 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Buchanan Street

One of Glasgow's premier shopping destinations, Buchanan Street offers a mix of high-street brands, luxury boutiques, and department stores.

Shopping 1-2 hours Varies by store

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Main Course Contains meat and offal.

Cullen Skink

A creamy smoked haddock soup with potatoes and onions, originating from the town of Cullen in the northeast of Scotland.

Soup Contains fish.

Scotch Pie

A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef, seasoned with pepper and spices.

Snack Contains meat.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, honey, fresh raspberries, and toasted oats.

Dessert Vegetarian, but may contain dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Trossachs Kayaking on Loch Lomond Mountain biking in the Campsie Fells Climbing at the Rucksack Club Spas and wellness centers Afternoon tea at the Willow Tea Rooms Strolling through the Botanic Gardens Relaxing in Kelvingrove Park

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic, Scots
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Glasgow is generally safe for travelers, but like any city, it has its share of petty crime and safety concerns. Exercise caution in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious in crowded areas and at night
• Use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked cabs

Getting there

By air

Glasgow Airport • 10.5 km (6.5 miles) west of the city center
Glasgow Prestwick Airport • 50 km (31 miles) southwest of the city center

By train

Glasgow Central Station, Glasgow Queen Street Station

By bus

Buchanan Bus Station, Glasgow Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is easy to use and affordable, with a circular route connecting key areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

West End City Center East End Southside

Day trips

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

30 km (19 miles) northwest of Glasgow • Full day

A stunning national park offering a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, and wildlife spotting.

Stirling

40 km (25 miles) northeast of Glasgow • Full day

A historic city offering a mix of medieval architecture, museums, and scenic views.

Edinburgh

75 km (47 miles) east of Glasgow • Full day or overnight

Scotland's capital city offers a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

The Glasgow International Comedy Festival • March The Glasgow International Festival of Visual Art • July The Celtic Connections Festival • January to February

Pro tips

Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions
Take advantage of the city's free museums and galleries, such as the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Riverside Museum
Visit the Necropolis for a unique perspective on the city's history and a stunning view of Glasgow
Experience the city's vibrant nightlife, from traditional pubs to trendy bars and live music venues
Try local Scottish dishes, such as haggis, neeps, and tatties, and enjoy a traditional ceilidh (Scottish dance)