There are three tall standing stones at Drumtroddan, dating to the second or third millennium BC. Two have since fallen, but the other one stands about 3m high.
The stones provide a stark and evocative reminder of a mysterious past. They’re part of a unique prehistoric landscape and not the sole reminder of ancient civilisation in the area, which includes the nearby Drumtroddan Cup and Ring Marked Rocks.
The Drumtroddan Standing Stones were erected about 4,000 to 5,000 years ago, likely for ceremonial use – though the nature of these ceremonies is now completely lost to us. It’s likely this was a ceremonial site where observations of the Sun or Moon were made here, possibly using other stones or timber posts, which have not survived.
The selection, transport and erecting of these stones was carried out to a carefully planned design. The construction would have required plenty of technical and organisational skill.
Location: There is a farm road off the B7021. The Stones are signposted opposite the entrance by Historic Scotland.
Enter the single track road and head up to the stones which will be clearly visible on the right hand side. Vehicles can be parked very close to the stone’s entrance.
To visit the Drumtroddan Cup and Ring Marked Stones which are very closeby (5 mins), drive back to the B7021, turn right, then right again onto the B7085. The Drumtroddan Cup and Ring Marks will be signposted for you to turn right into Drumtroddan farm.
How to get there from The Old Smiddy: Drumtroddan Farm, 6.0 miles (10 mins) via B7021. What3words: stray.wobbles.hobbies
