South Ythsie
Nearest
Town: Ellon, Aberdeenshire
OS Grid Reference: NJ 88 43 05
OS Grid Reference: NJ 88 43 05
Directions: On the B999 between Pitmedden and Tarves, take the signposted minor road for the Prop of Ythsie. Less than a mile along, there is a small car park on the left for the monument to the 4th Earl of Aberdeen that you can see on the hill. Park here, and walk up the quiet lane, past the cottage on the left, to the first entrance on the right. There is a small sign for the circle here, walk straight down the track, straight past the house and around to the left. Follow the track and the circle is in front of you. 10 minutes from the car park, free entry.
Site Notes: This is a wonderful circle, and very different to the recumbent stone circles so prevalent in Aberdeenshire. Six large boulders set on an artificial 3 foot high mound and nestled into the farming landscape. The tallest stone, some 6 feet high has been cloven by millenia of frost and heat and lies in 3 pieces. This circle was restored in 1994 by the people of Tarves, and was so well done, you would never know apart from the sign that tells you. The descendants of the original builders, ensuring that the circle will stand for centuries to come.
