Braes of Avochie

Downs, Moorland in Aberdeenshire

Scotland

Braes of Avochie

The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (1) The gentle mound is the ground originally surrounded by the circle. In the foreground are three stones lying flat, which are not thought to be in the original circle, though they might have been displaced from it. The taller stone on the left is the recumbent, with a stubby outcrop of rock beside it. See <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://canmore.org.uk/site/17827/the-ringing-stone" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://canmore.org.uk/site/17827/the-ringing-stone">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> for more details. <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/4742648">NJ5345 : The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (2)</a> — The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (1) Credit: Anne Burgess

The Braes of Avochie is a picturesque area located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It is characterized by its gently rolling downs and expansive moorland, offering visitors a unique and scenic landscape to explore. The area is nestled between the towns of Turriff and Aberchirder, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike.

The downs of Braes of Avochie are a prominent feature, with their undulating slopes and vibrant greenery. These downs provide a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, and birdwatching. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the well-maintained paths, enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

The moorland of Braes of Avochie offers a different experience, with its vast expanse of heather-covered terrain. This rugged landscape is home to a variety of wildlife, including red grouse, curlews, and golden plovers. Nature enthusiasts can explore the moorland on foot, immersing themselves in the tranquility and natural beauty of the area.

In addition to its natural wonders, Braes of Avochie also boasts historical significance. The area is dotted with remnants of old settlements and archaeological sites, offering a glimpse into its rich past. Visitors can delve into the history of the region, uncovering the stories and traditions of those who once inhabited this land.

Overall, the Braes of Avochie in Aberdeenshire is a captivating destination that combines stunning natural landscapes with a rich cultural heritage. Whether it's enjoying a peaceful walk along the downs or discovering the secrets of the moorland, visitors are sure to be enchanted by the beauty and charm of this remarkable area.

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Braes of Avochie Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.506218/-2.7799202 or Grid Reference NJ5346. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (1)

The gentle mound is the ground originally surrounded by the circle. In the foreground are three stones lying flat, which are not thought to be in the original circle, though they might have been displaced from it. The taller stone on the left is the recumbent, with a stubby outcrop of rock beside it. See Link

for more details. NJ5345 : The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (2)

Anne Burgess

The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (2)

On the left is the recumbent, with a natural outcrop in front of it. On the right are three stones which may have been part of the original circle, but are not in original positions. The prominent distant hill is Knock Hill. See Link

for more details. NJ5345 : The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (3) (Sorry about my shadow - I couldn't avoid it!)

Anne Burgess

The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (3)

The large stone here is the recumbent, and it is the only stone still standing. The farmer who farms the land told me that it might have fallen over too, but his grandfather had added some stones to keep it upright. To its right is a natural outcrop, though I am surprised that the latter managed to survive the Ice Age. See Link

for more details. NJ5345 : The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (4)

Anne Burgess

The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (4)

The recumbent is on the left, and from this angle you can see that the natural outcrop is a few feet from the recumbent. See Link

for more details. NJ5345 : The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (5)

Anne Burgess

The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (5)

This is the side of the recumbent that faces into the circle. The stones it sits on, and several others that are possibly not original, can be clearly seen. The rock on the left edge of the picture is a natural rock outcrop. See Link

for more details. NJ5345 : The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (6)

Anne Burgess

The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (6)

This is the recumbent, seen end-on. It is also known as the Iron Stane, and the name is because of the ringing sound it makes when struck. See Link

for more details. NJ5345 : The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (7)

Anne Burgess

The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (7)

If the stone in the foreground was part of the circle, it has been moved, and a row of wedge holes has been bored into it. In the background is the recumbent, seen end-on, with a natural rock outcrop to the left. See Link

for more details. NJ5345 : The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (8)

Anne Burgess

The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (8)

These stones, although lying close to the circle, are not part of it. In 1871, at least two of them were not where they are now, and the nearer one has had wedge holes bored into it. See Link

for more details. NJ5345 : The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (9)

Anne Burgess

The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (9)

Apart from the recumbent, this is the only stone in its original position, though it is no longer standing. See Link

for more details. NJ5345 : The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (10)

Anne Burgess

The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (10)

This grassy mound is what remains of the cairn inside the stone circle. It has been cultivated, but the farmer said that the bedrock is so close to the surface that it's only really suitable for grazing. See Link

for more details. NJ5345 : The Ringing Stane Recumbent Stone Circle (1)

Anne Burgess

Tillytarmont Railway Bridge

The bridge carries the Aberdeen and Inverness railway over the River Deveron. The Wood of Avochie is beyond the railway, and the farm on top of the hill is Dykehead, in the next square.

Anne Burgess

Rail bridge over the Deveron

Peter Moore

Rothiemay railway station (site), Aberdeenshire

Opened in 1856 on the Great North of Scotland Railway's line from Aberdeen to Keith, this station closed in 1968. The line was later singled. View north towards Cairnie Junction and Keith. A wall is still visible in the undergrowth.

Nigel Thompson