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Archaeology Fortnight

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Walking In Caithness  

Step into the past with Highland Archaeology Fortnight 2006
30th September - 15th October 2006
Programmes for the 13th annual Highland Archaeology Fortnight are hot off the press this week and the event’s organisers are urging archaeology followers to get their copies now.

The two week event takes place between Saturday 30th September - Sunday 15th October, with a diverse range of 156 events taking place throughout the Highlands.

The festival, which celebrates the archaeology, history and culture of the Highlands, has a packed programme of guided walks, talks, children’s and special events for people of all ages to enjoy.

Co-ordinated by The Highland Council’s Archaeology Unit in the Planning and Development Service, the festival’s events are organised by a wide range of community groups, interested individuals, museums and professional bodies such as Historic Scotland, Forestry Commission Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland.

Councillor Sandy Park, Chairman of The Highland Council’s Planning, Development Europe and Tourism Committee said: “This year’s programme has a fascinating range of interesting events on offer during Highland Archaeology Fortnight. By stepping into the past we have a lot to look forward to in Highland Archaeology as we will hear at the closing seminar on the 14th and 15th October.”

Andrew Puls, Highland Council’s Historic Environment Record Officer said: “The popularity of Highland Archaeology Fortnight just goes on from strength to strength. Recent television programmes have popularised archaeology by bringing it into people’s homes making it more accessible and interesting to a whole new set of people.

“Highland Archaeology Fortnight is a great opportunity for people to get out of their armchairs and into the field to discover their local cultural heritage and to see for themselves what is going on in their own area.

“Thanks go to our many sponsors as well all the local societies, museums and individuals without whose dedication and support Archaeology Fortnight would not be possible.”

As a grand finale to Highland Archaeology Fortnight, a seminar, “What’s New in Highland Archaeology", will be held at the Ramada Jarvis Hotel, Church Street, Inverness on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th October. The event is free and members of the public are invited to come along and find out about the recent archaeological discoveries and research in the Highlands.

To get your free copy of the programme, visit  Highland Council’s website at www.highland.gov.uk/yourenvironment/conservation/archaeology.htm or pick up a copy at your local library or service point, or call the festival hotline on 01463 718505.

For further information please contact: Andrew Puls, Historic Environment Record Officer, The Highland Council Archaeology Unit, Planning and Development Service, The Highland Council, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness IV3 5NX Tel: 01463 702505 Fax: 01463 702298.

Caithness:

SUN 01

10.00am-2.00pm.  "A Short Walk round Dirlot".  Guided walk with Paul Humphreys looking at the archaeology of Dirlot, the castle ruins, townships and its environs.  Meet at Thurso Rail Station.

Caithness Field Club  Tel: 01847 851275

SUN 01

2.00pm-3.30pm.  "Stories in the Bothy and Stones on the Beach".  Meet in the fishermen's bothy at Dunbeath Harbour for stories and explore the geology of the beach.  Family afternoon, suitable for children aged 5-15 years.

Dunbeath Preservation Trust  Tel: 01593 731233

WED 04

7.30pm-9.00pm.  "The Archaeology of The Dunnet Area - Life's a Beach in the Far North".  A talk by Wayne Bremner on the archaeology of the Dunnet Landscape at the Britannia Hall, Dunnet.

Caithness Archaeological Trust  Tel: 01593 731269

SAT 07

11.00am-3.00pm.  "North Coast Harbour Trawl".  Discover the history and wildlife of the harbours of the North Coast on this guided walk and tour.  Please call for details.

HC Rangers  Tel: 01847 821531

SAT 07

2.00pm-4.00pm approx.  "Land Bridges, Tsunamis, Stinking Fish and Other Stories".  A walk from John O' Groats with archaeology and stories thrown in.  Meet at John O' Groats Tourist Information Centre.

Caithness Archaeological Trust  Tel: 01593 731269

SUN 08

11.00am-2.00pm.  "The Battle Site at Altimarlich".  A walk up the Wick River to the ancient clan battle site, looking at wildlife along the way.  Take binoculars rather than swords!  Meet at Somerfield car park, Wick (boating shed end ND361511). 

HC Rangers  Tel: 01955 607758

SUN 08

1.30pm-4.00pm.  "Kirk-ular Tour".  A guided walk around the past and present churches of Castletown.  Meet at Olrig Cemetery car park (ND300939).

Castletown Heritage Society  Tel: 01847 821204

WED 11

7.30pm-9.00pm.  "Place Names of South East Caithness"  A tour around the names of South East Caithness.  A talk by Nan Bethune at Lybster Bowling Hall.

Caithness Archaeological Trust  Tel: 01593 731269

THUR 12

11.00am-1.30pm.  "Bogs, Burials and Brochs - a Beginner's Introduction to the Yarrows Area".  Explore a landscape filled with round house, chambered cairn and broch structures.  Learn about wildlife along the way.  Meet at South Yarrows Farm car park (ND306433).

HC Rangers  Tel: 01955 607758

 

Sutherland:

SAT 30

9.30am-5.00pm.  “WEA Field Trip to Golspie and Area”, this field trip will look at archaeological sites in the area and finds in Dunrobin Castle Museum.  Bring stout footwear, waterproofs and packed lunch with you.  Cost is £5.00 for the day.  For more information or to receive a booking form, contact the WEA on 01463 710577 or email:  inverness@weascotland.org.uk or write to WEA 57 Church Street Inverness IV1 1DR.  Departing 9:30am Inverness from Railway Terrace and 10:00am from Dingwall Community Centre, 10:20am Perrins Centre Alness returning 4:10pm Alness, 4:30pm Dingwall and 5:00pm Inverness.

Sponsor - Workers' Educational Association (WEA) Exploring your Past project including funding from Moray Firth Partnership and Heritage Lottery Fund.

SAT 30

12.00pm-8.00pm.  Photographic exhibition by John H Rhodes (Scottish photographer) at Kincardine Old Church (NH894604).  Free admission.

Kyle of Sutherland Heritage Society  Tel: 01863 766868

SUN 01

2.00pm-6.00pm.  Photographic exhibition by John H Rhodes (Scottish photographer) at Kincardine Old Church (NH894604).  Free admission.

Kyle of Sutherland Heritage Society  Tel: 01863 766868

MON 02

11.00am, 2.00pm & 4.00pm. Discover the rocks of the Northern Highlands and displays of world-wide minerals and fossils at the Orcadian Stone Company, Main Street, Golspie (ND837003).  Free guided tours lasts approx 1 hour.

Orcadian Stone Company  Tel: 01408 633483

MON 02

11.00am-4.00pm. "Loch Beannach, Little Assynt".  Learn about farming in Assynt, before and after the Clearances while walking to this loch with its beautiful wooded islands.  Meet at Little Assynt Field car park (NC154252).  Bring wellies!

Culag Community Woodland Trust  Tel: 01571 844368

MON 02

11.00am-6.00pm.  Photographic exhibition by John H Rhodes (Scottish photographer) at Kincardine Old Church (NH894604).  Free admission.

Kyle of Sutherland Heritage Society  Tel: 01863 766868

MON 02

1.30pm-4.30pm.  "Changing Lives in the Upper Evelix Valley".  Join Historic Monument Warden Anne Coombs for a walk around the prehistoric and pre-Clearance landscape of the upper Evelix Valley.  Meet at History Links Museum, Dornoch (NH798896).

Historylinks Museum  Tel: 01862 811275

TUE 03

11.00am, 2.00pm & 4.00pm. Discover the rocks of the Northern Highlands and displays of world-wide minerals and fossils at the Orcadian Stone Company, Main Street, Golspie (ND837003).  Free guided tours lasts approx 1 hour.

Orcadian Stone Company  Tel: 01408 633483

TUE 03

11.00am-3.00pm.  "The Clearance Village of Dubh Clais, Lochinver".  Fascinating walk (8km) to the remains of the Dubh Clais village, cleared in 1800 to make way for a sheep farm.  Find out what life would have been like and examine the evidence that remains in the landscape today. Meet at the Lochinver Tourist Information Centre (NC095225).

HC Rangers  Tel: 01571 844654

TUE 03

11.00am-6.00pm.  Photographic exhibition by John H Rhodes (Scottish photographer) at Kincardine Old Church (NH894604).  Free admission.

Kyle of Sutherland Heritage Society  Tel: 01863 766868

WED 04

10.00am-12.30pm.  "The Picts that were in Edderton".  Join Reay and Janey Clarke for a visit to places in Edderton where the Picts left their mark, including site of battle, standing stone and cross-slab in graveyard.  Meet at graveyard car park, Edderton East Church (NH719842). 

Reay Clarke  Tel: 01862 821206

WED 04

11.00am, 2.00pm & 4.00pm. Discover the rocks of the Northern Highlands and displays of world-wide minerals and fossils at the Orcadian Stone Company, Main Street, Golspie (ND837003).  Free guided tours lasts approx 1 hour.

Orcadian Stone Company  Tel: 01408 633483

WED 04

11.00am-6.00pm.  Photographic exhibition by John H Rhodes (Scottish photographer) at Kincardine Old Church (NH894604).  Free admission.

Kyle of Sutherland Heritage Society  Tel: 01863 766868

THUR 05

10.30am-12.30pm.  "Scourie's Ancient Settlement".  Guided walk over rough hill ground (approx 2 hrs) to view Bronze Age settlement remains, hut circles and burnt mound.  Fine views.  Meet at Scourie village car park (opposite shop- NC157447).  Call to book.

HC Rangers  Tel: 01971 511756

THUR 05

11.00am, 2.00pm & 4.00pm. Discover the rocks of the Northern Highlands and displays of world-wide minerals and fossils at the Orcadian Stone Company, Main Street, Golspie (ND837003).  Free guided tours lasts approx 1 hour.

Orcadian Stone Company  Tel: 01408 633483

FRI 06

10.00am-12.30pm.  "The Hill of Edderton - a Former Crofting Community".  Join Reay and Janey Clarke for a visit to the Hill of Edderton to see history of the land use, cruck-framed croft house, former crofts and chambered cairns.  Meet at graveyard car park, Edderton East Church (NH719842). 

Reay Clarke  Tel: 01862 821206

FRI 06

11.00am, 2.00pm & 4.00pm. Discover the rocks of the Northern Highlands and displays of world-wide minerals and fossils at the Orcadian Stone Company, Main Street, Golspie (ND837003).  Free guided tours lasts approx 1 hour.

Orcadian Stone Company  Tel: 01408 633483

SAT 07

11.00am, 2.00pm & 4.00pm. Discover the rocks of the Northern Highlands and displays of world-wide minerals and fossils at the Orcadian Stone Company, Main Street, Golspie (ND837003).  Free guided tours lasts approx 1 hour.

Orcadian Stone Company  Tel: 01408 633483

SUN 08

11.00am-4.00pm.  A guided walk to Kilphedder Township, Strath Brora.  See the superb remains of longhouses, corn-drying kilns, enclosures and Iron Age landscape.  Meet at Brora Heritage Centre (NC897043).

Clyne Heritage Society  Tel: 01408 621338

SUN 08

1.30pm-4.30pm.  "Loch Migdale".  Join Historic Monument Warden Anne Coombs for a walk and drive round the prehistoric landscape of Loch Migdale.   Meet at Spinningdale old shop (NH675898).

Historylinks Museum  Tel: 01862 811275

MON 09

11.00am-2.00pm.  "Ancient Woodland Walk, Little Assynt".  Discover the secrets of ancient woodland remnants in Assynt on this short guided walk.  Meet at Little Assynt Field car park (NC154252). 

Culag Community Woodland Trust  Tel: 01571 844368

TUE 10

7.30pm-9.30pm.  "Visibility Moderate".  An exploration on ideas and images of archaeology and art.  Illustrated talk by Dr Norman Gibson at Bonar Bridge Hall. 

Bonar Bridge Local History Society  Tel: 01863 766235

THUR 12

7.30pm-9.00pm.  "Clachtoll Broch"  An illustrated talk by Dr Euan Mackie, Scotland's foremost expert on brochs, followed by an outline of proposals for the site's future protection.  Stoer Hall, Assynt (NC042297).

Comann Eachdraidh Asainte & Historic Assynt  Tel: 01571 855207

FRI 13

11.00am-1.00pm.  A guided walking tour of Clachtoll Broch (Iron Age fort) by Scotland's leading expert on brochs. Dr Euan Mackie will explain why the architecture and the scale of the surrounding structures make it unique on the West Coast.  Meet in Stoer Cemetery car park (NC040283).

Gordon Sleight, Comann Eachdraidh Asainte & Historic Assynt   Tel: 01571 855207

SAT 14

10.30am-3.30pm.  "Township Survey in the Strath of Kildonan".  Take part in a site-recording exercise at one of the townships in the Strath of Kildonan dating to pre-clearance times.  No experience required.  The survey will begin with a tour of the township using available historical records and then progress to simple and enjoyable recording exercises.  Learn about longhouses, corn-drying kilns, enclosures, kale yards and much more.  Suitable for ages 8+.  Meet at Timespan car park (NC96981026). 

Timespan  Tel: 01431 821327

 

Ross and Cromarty:

WED 04

7.00pm-8.30pm.  "Thoughts on Nigg".  Illustrated talk by John Wood (Highland Archaeology Services Ltd) on the recent restoration work on Nigg Old Church and other interesting historical matters.  Meet at the Church.

Nigg Old Trust  Tel: 01862 832214

THUR 05

7.30pm-9.00pm. "Dealing with the Romans – Latest News from the Birnie Trenches".  An illustrated talk by Dr Fraser Hunter, Department of Archaeology, National Museums of Scotland, Edinburgh, at Fortrose Community Theatre.  Admission £3.00/ Members £1.50. 

Groam House Museum  Tel: 01381 621252.

THUR 05

7.30pm-9.00pm. Come along to Ullapool Museum for an illustrated talk about the work of Highland Council Archaeology Unit in Ross-shire. 

Ullapool Museum  Tel: 01854 612987

SAT 07

10.00am-5.00pm.  Free entry to Highland Museum of Childhood, The Old Station, Strathpeffer.

Highland Museum of Childhood  Tel: 01997 421031

SAT 07

1.00pm-4.00pm.  "Completely Batty".  Free drop-in children's fun hands-on activities at Highland Museum of Childhood, The Old Station, Strathpeffer.  Bat activities, crafts, facts puzzles and stories for children aged 5-11yrs.  Children must to accompanied by an adult.  Please wear warm clothing.

Highland Museum of Childhood  Tel: 01997 421031

TUE 10

2.30pm-4.30pm approx.  "Access and Understanding of your Graveyard".  Guided tour of Nigg Old Church graveyard with an account of the graveyard survey and explanation of new technology for accessing information.  Led by Michele Cadger, David Alston and Kathleen Dallas.

Nigg Old Trust  Tel: 01862 832214

THUR 12

10.00am-2.00pm.  "Iron Age Hill Forts in the Highlands - Knockfarrel".  Learn about the Iron Age forts, including Knockfarrel, and the surrounding landscape of Strathpeffer, including Castle Leod and the Cromarty Firth, on this 4.5 mile guided walk.  Meet at Blackmuir Wood car park, Strathpeffer (NH479573).

HC Rangers  Tel: 01349 868563

FRI 13

10.00am-1.00pm.  "6000 Years of the Rosemarkie Caves".  Take a wander along to the caves and through time, learning about the past history of the people who used them, and how Stone Age people lived and survived.  Meet at Rosemarkie Beach car park (NH737577).  Please wear suitable footwear.

HC Rangers  Tel: 01349 868563

SAT 14

10.00am-1.00pm.  "Fish Traps and Crannogs - A Cycle through Time along the Beauly Firth".  Learn about the different archaeological sites of the Beauly Firth and how they were used, including crannogs and fish traps, on this guided cycle ride.  Meet at North Kessock Community Hall car park (NH649480).  Please ensure your bike is fit for the journey and wear a helmet.

HC Rangers  Tel: 01349 868563

 

Inverness:

SAT 30

10.00am-5.00pm.  Reduced admission day at the Highland Aviation Museum.  Visit Britain's most northerly Aviation Museum.  Come along and try on a real fighter pilot's helmet, sit in a real ejection seat, learn about our Aviation Pioneer, Caption Fresson, and read personal memories of ex-RAF personnel who served at our WWII airfields!  But best of all, come and experience sitting in the cockpits of our ex-military jets/civil airline cockpit collection.  Highland Aviation Museum, 9 Dalcross Ind. Est, by Inverness Airport.  Adults £3.00, Children (age 3-15 years) £2.00, Family Ticket (2+2) £9.00.  Please telephone in advance to discuss wheelchair access.

Highland Aviation Museum  Tel: 01667 461100

SAT 30

7.00pm. "Is This a Dagger? The Story of Macbeth".  Join "Wee Stories" at Urquhart Castle on a journey into the life of Macbeth and explore the paths where fact and fiction merge and how we make myths from truths.
Suitable for 8yrs + and their families.  £8 available from Hub Tickets.  Tel: 0131 473 2000.

Historic Scotland  Tel: 0131 4732000

WED 04

10.30am-3.30pm.  "Unlocking Doors to the Past".  A walk along the old drovers' road to Inverness with great views and fascinating history, finishing with a visit into the Old Craig Dunain Hospital.  Meet at Great Glen House (SNH car park).  Please bring a torch if possible, packed lunch, wet weather clothing and good walking boots.  Call to book.

Great Glen Way Rangers  Tel: 01320 366633.

THUR 05

10.00am-11.30am.  "Friars, Floods and Foundries".  Discover the hidden history of Inverness's bridges and the Braham Seer's prophecy on a guided historical walk along the banks of the River Ness.  Meet at Infirmary Bridge, by Highland Hospice, Bishop's Road.  Sponsored by Rowan Tree Consulting

Rowan Tree Consulting  Tel: 01463 718505

SAT 07

10.00am-12.00pm.  Inverness Young Archaeology Club will be holding a special HAF meeting for members.  For more information about the club please contact Hazel Bews.

Hazel Bews  Tel: 01463 718505

SAT 07

10.00am-4.00pm.  "The Funeral Roads".  Join the Rangers as they follow one of the traditional coffin trails.  Meet at the Clansman Hotel car park (NH561330).  Call to book .

Great Glen Way Rangers  Tel: 01320 366633

SAT 07

12.00pm-4.00pm.  "Historic Saltire Society - The Bruce at Urquhart Castle".  Robert the Bruce, still not formally recognised as King of the Scots, moves his campaign to the north of Scotland and captures Urquhart Castle from his long-standing enemies, the Comyn.  Immerse yourself in the year 1308 and join the castle inhabitants as they go about their tasks. Enjoy the soldiers' weapon displays and watch as young recruits are put through medieval army training.  Admission charge for castle - adults £6.50, child £2.50, conc £5.00.

Historic Scotland  Tel: 0131 668 8926

SUN 08

12.00pm-4.00pm.  "Historic Saltire Society - The Bruce at Urquhart Castle".  Robert the Bruce, still not formally recognised as King of the Scots, moves his campaign to the north of Scotland and captures Urquhart Castle from his long-standing enemies, the Comyn.  Immerse yourself in the year 1308 and join the castle inhabitants as they go about their tasks. Enjoy the soldiers 'weapon displays and watch as young recruits are put through medieval army training.  Admission charge for castle - adults £6.50, child £2.50, conc £5.00.

Historic Scotland  Tel: 0131 668 8926

MON 09

10.30am-3.00pm.  "Living History at Aigas".  Explore living history at Aigas.  Delve into Bronze Age and Iron Age life.  A day of family fun, games, re-enactments and activities all on a genuine 5000 year old site.  Meet at Aigas Field Centre.  Suitable for ages 4-12 yrs, adults £5, children £3.  Call to book.

Aigas Field Centre  Tel: 01463 782443

TUE 10

2.00pm-4.00pm.  "Tomnahurich Splendour".  Join us for a stroll up Tomnahurich Hill and through the Cemetery.  Enjoy the Victorian splendour of the gravestones and find out what wildlife calls the Cemetery home.  Meet at Tomnahurich Cemetery gates (NH655444). Call to book.

HC Rangers and HC Archaeology Unit  Tel: 01463 724312

WED 11

10.30am-3.00pm.  "Living History at Aigas".  Explore living history at Aigas.  Delve into Bronze Age and Iron Age life.  A day of family fun, games, re-enactments and activities all on a genuine 5000 year old site.  Meet at Aigas Field Centre.  Suitable for ages 4-12 yrs, adults £5, children £3. Call to book.

Aigas Field Centre  Tel: 01463 782443

WED 11

2.00pm-3.00pm.  "Clava, Home of the Gods".  Join Douglas Scott to discover Clava Cairns through astronomy, ritual and Gaelic tradition.  A guided tour and talk.  Meet at the Cairns (NH757444).  Note: Doug will also be speaking at the Inverness seminar - see back page for details.

Douglas Scott  Tel: 01463 718505

THUR 12

10.00am-12.00pm.  "Hydro Walk - Glen Affric".  Join Stuart Findlay, FC Ranger, to learn about the impact of the Hydro boys in Glen Affric.  Meet at Dog Falls car park (NH283282).

Forestry Commission  Tel: 01320 366322

THUR 12

1.00pm-3.00pm.  "Pictish Trail for Children".  Join Forestry Commission Scotland and see if you can solve the mystery of the Pictish Stones.  A family event - meet at Craig Phadrig top car park, Leachkin Brae, Inverness (NH638449). 

Forestry Commission  Tel: 01463 791575

THUR 12

2.00pm-4.00pm.  "Hydro Walk - Glen Moriston".  Join Stuart Findlay, FC Ranger, to learn about the impact of the Hydro boys in Glen Moriston.  Meet at Invermoriston car park (NH421167).

Forestry Commission  Tel: 01320 366322

FRI 13

2.00pm-4.00pm.  "Clava Cairns - Magic and Mystery".  The Clava Cairns have many unanswered questions.  Why did people build them?  How did they explain the changing seasons?  Help us to unravel the mysteries of this amazing place.  Meet at the Cairns (NH757445).  Call to book.

HC Rangers  Tel: 01463 724312

SAT 14

9.30am-4.30pm.  "The Big Draw - The Scarlet and the Tartan" at Fort George.  Join us for a weekend of drawing, have a go at designing your very own Highland uniform and wear period uniforms.  Drawing materials provided but please don’t forget your camera. In conjunction with the Highlanders' Regimental Museum.  Admission - adults £6.50, children £2.50, conc £5.00.

Historic Scotland  Tel: 0131 668 8926

SAT 14

9.40am-5.00pm.  "What's New in Highland Archaeology" seminar at the Ramada Jarvis Hotel, Church Street, Inverness. 

See back page for further details.

SUN 15

9.30am-4.30pm.  "The Big Draw - The Scarlet and the Tartan" at Fort George.  Join us for a weekend of drawing, have a go at designing your very own Highland uniform and wear period uniforms.  Drawing materials provided but please don’t forget your camera. In conjunction with the Highlanders' Regimental Museum.  Admission - adults £6.50, children £2.50, conc £5.00.

Historic Scotland  Tel: 0131 668 8926

SUN 15

9.40am-5.00pm.  "What's New in Highland Archaeology" seminar at the Ramada Jarvis Hotel, Church Street, Inverness. 

See back page for further details.

 

Nairn:

MON 02

2.30pm-3.30pm.  "Auldearn - Churchyard and Motte".  Guided tour with Andrew Ferguson.  Meet at churchyard, Boath Terrace (NH919555).  Please call to book.

Heritage Officer, Nairn  Tel: 01667 458520

TUE 03

2.30pm-3.30pm.  Guided tour of Rait Castle with Andrew Ferguson.   Meet at Rait Castle, by Nairn (NH893525).  Please call to book.

Heritage Officer, Nairn  Tel: 01667 458520

WED 04

2.30pm-3.30pm.  Guided tour of Nairn Court House with Andrew Ferguson.  Meet in Court House foyer.  Please call to book. 

Heritage Officer, Nairn  Tel: 01667 458520

SUN 08

2.00pm-5.00pm.  Special HAF open day at Nairn Museum.  2 for 1 admission with HAF programme - adults £2.50, children go free.

Nairn Museum Trust  Tel: 01667 456791

 

Badenoch and Strathspey

SUN 01

10.00am-12.30pm.  "Sub-terrain Subterfuge".  Visit remnants of ancient settlements, including an underground souterrain once used as a hide-out and a medieval township.  Meet at Chapel Park Farm, Lynchat (NH784019). 

HC Rangers  Tel: 01479 873914

SUN 01

2.00pm-4.00pm.  "Living in Dell Woods".  Join the Explore Abernethy Ranger to discover the fascinating stories and archaeology of Abernethy on a guided walk in this ancient Caledonian Pine Forest National Nature Reserve.  Meet at Explore Abernethy Centre, Nethybridge Community Centre. 

Explore Abernethy  Tel: 01479 821565

WED 04

10.00am-11.30am.  "The Life and Times of an Ancient Forest".  Join the Explore Abernethy Ranger for a short walk in the magnificent Abernethy forest, vital for centuries to the wildlife and people of Nethybridge.  Meet at Explore Abernethy Centre, Nethybridge Community Centre. 

Explore Abernethy  Tel: 01479 821565

WED 04

11.00am-2.30pm.  "Waterfalls, Woods and Ancient Settlements".  Discover the ancient deserted township of Druim an Aird and the spectacular waterfall on the River Pattack.  Meet at the Forestry Commission car park, 4 miles west of Laggan on A86 (NN564903).

HC Rangers  Tel: 01479 873914

FRI 06

10.30am-2.30pm.  "Walk Wade's Way".  Walk in General Wade's and Major Caulfeild's footsteps exploring Garva Barracks, Garva Bridge and part of the ancient Corrieyairack Pass. Meet at car park by Laggan Stores (NN61494).

HC Rangers  Tel: 01479 873914

SAT 07

10.00am-4.00pm.  "Fanks for the Memories".  Coach tour of the old dry stone sheep fanks in Laggan Parish from Crubenbeg to Melgarve.  Demonstrations of the dry stone dyking used in fanks, sheep clipping using old stone clippers' stools, readings and visits to historical agricultural sites.  Meet at Laggan car park, just past the village shop (NN618945). Booking is essential for coach hire purposes.  Latest date for bookings 2/10/06.

Laggan Heritage  Tel: 01528 544238

SUN 08

2.00pm-4.00pm.  "Living in Dell Woods".  Join the Explore Abernethy Ranger to discover the fascinating stories and archaeology of Abernethy on a guided walk in this ancient Caledonian Pine Forest National Nature Reserve.  Meet at Explore Abernethy Centre, Nethybridge Community Centre. 

Explore Abernethy  Tel: 01479 821565

SUN 08

2.00pm-4.00pm.  "Heritage Walk around Grantown" with Bill Sadler.  This guided walk of Grantown takes in town buildings which have been, or still are, schools. Meet at Grantown Museum.

Grantown Society  Tel: 01479 872480

TUE 10

2.00pm-4.00pm.  "Archaeological Antics!".  Discover how folk lived in times gone by - lots of activities and games to help you find out.  Meet at Loch Vaa at the Laggantygown Cemetery car park.  Booking essential.

HC Rangers  Tel: 01479 873914

TUE 10

8.00pm-9.00pm.  "Joseph Mitchell (1803-83): Father of the Highland Railway".  An illustrated talk on the life of Joseph Mitchell at The Tennis Club, Rothiemurchus.  Call to book.

Badenoch and Strathspey Local History Group   Tel: 01479 811893

WED 11

10.00am-11.30am.  "The Life and Times of an Ancient Forest".  Join the Explore Abernethy Ranger for a short walk in the magnificent Abernethy forest, vital for centuries to the wildlife and people of Nethybridge.  Meet at Explore Abernethy Centre, Nethybridge Community Centre. 

Explore Abernethy  Tel: 01479 821565

FRI 13

7.30pm-9.00pm.  "Muckrach Castle and Carved Stone Balls".  An evening lecture by Ian Begg at Grantown Museum.

Grantown Society  Tel: 01479 872781

SUN 15

2.00pm-4.00pm.  "Living in Dell Woods".  Join the Explore Abernethy Ranger to discover the fascinating stories and archaeology of Abernethy on a guided walk in this ancient Caledonian Pine Forest National Nature Reserve.  Meet at Explore Abernethy Centre, Nethybridge Community Centre. 

Explore Abernethy  Tel: 01479 821565

SUN 15

2.30pm-3.30pm. "Clan Chattan".  Talk on the background of the "Clan Chattan - the Confederation of Local Clans" by Robert McGillivray.  Clan MacPherson Museum, Newtonmore.   Call to book, suitable for ages 14+.

Clan MacPherson Museum  Tel: 01540 673332

 

Skye and Lochalsh:

SAT 30

1.30pm-3.30pm.  "Dùn Beag/ Dùn Mòr".  Join us for a guided walk to explore two Celtic forts on the beautiful west coast of Skye. Dùn Beag is well known, having been visited by Thomas Pennant in 1769 and excavated in the early 20th century by Countess Vincent Baillet de Latour. Nearby Dùn Mòr is less known and less often visited. Meet at car park below Dun Beag, off the A863 ½ mile north of Struan (NG337385).

HC Rangers  Tel: 01471 822774

MON 02

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project  Tel: 01471 822562

TUE 03

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project  Tel: 01471 822562

WED 04

"The Ancient Art of Flint Knapping".  John and Val Lord, masters of flint knapping, will demonstrate their ancient art to local school children and members of the public.  Staffin Primary School (NG59156750).  Suitable for children aged 5-12.  Call for details.

Staffin Community Trust  Tel: 01470 562255

WED 04

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project  Tel: 01471 822562

WED 04

10.30am-3.30pm.  "Strath in the Iron Age".  A Ranger-led guided walk exploring the countryside around the High Pasture Cave excavation in Strath on the Isle of Skye. We will be exploring the remains of a range of Bronze and Iron Age structures, from round-house through crannog to Hebridean fort or Dùn.  Meet at the Cave (NG594197).

HC Rangers  Tel: 01471 822774

THUR 05

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project  Tel: 01471 822562

THUR 05

10.00am- 4.00pm. "Any, Any, Any Old Iron".  Come and help with the excavation of a recently-discovered iron smelting mound within the atlantic oakwoods of Kinloch in south Skye. Join the search for other undiscovered sites in the area. Learn about the rich cultural heritage of these woods and the ambitious woodland restoration programme currently ongoing on the estate. Meet at 10am in the FC car park at Kinloch, south Skye (NG 704 162).  Tel: 01471 855315 Chris Marsh (FCS)

Forestry Commission Scotland/Archaeological & Ancient Landscape Survey

FRI 06

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project  Tel: 01471 822562

SAT 07

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project  Tel: 01471 822562

SAT 07

10.00am-3.00pm.  "Iron Age Crafts for Kids at the Cave".    Try your hand at jewellery-making, pottery and other crafts from the Iron Age or have your face painted with a traditional Celtic design dating from 2000 years ago.  Meet at High Pasture Cave (NG594197).

HC Rangers  Tel: 01471 822774

SAT 07

11.00am-2.00pm.  "Walk in the Footprints of Time".  Guided walk with Dugald Ross to discover some of the hidden archaeology and history along the Garafad path to An Corran.  Meet at the Columba 1400 Centre, Staffin (NG59156750).

Staffin Community Trust  Tel: 01470 562255

SUN 08

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project  Tel: 01471 822562

MON 09

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project  Tel: 01471 822562

TUE 10

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

High Pasture Cave Project Tel: 01471 822562

WED 11

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project  Tel: 01471 822562

WED 11

10.00am-3.00pm.  "Iron Age Crafts for Kids at the Cave".    Try your hand at jewellery-making, pottery and other crafts from the Iron Age or have your face painted with a traditional Celtic design dating from 2000 years ago.  Meet at High Pasture Cave (NG594197).

HC Rangers  Tel: 01471 822774

WED 11

10.30am-3.30pm.  "Strath in the Iron Age".  A Ranger-led guided walk exploring the countryside around the High Pasture Cave excavation in Strath on the Isle of Skye. We will be exploring the remains of a range of Bronze and Iron Age structures from round-house through crannog to Hebridean fort or Dùn.  Meet at the Cave (NG594197).

HC Rangers  Tel: 01471 822774

THUR 12

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project   Tel: 01471 822562

THUR 12

10.00am-3.00pm.  "Iron Age Crafts for Kids at the Cave".    Try your hand at jewellery-making, pottery and other crafts from the Iron Age or have your face painted with a traditional Celtic design dating from 2000 years ago.  Meet at High Pasture Cave (NG594197).

HC Rangers  Tel: 01471 822774

FRI 13

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project  Tel: 01471 822562

FRI 13

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project   Tel: 01471 822562

FRI 13

2.00pm-6.00pm.  "Discover Leitir Fura".  Join the Ranger to uncover the hidden secrets of this Clearance village and find out about the work that has been done to expose it once again.  Meet at Kinloch car park (NG703161). 

Fort Augustus Forest District  Tel: 01320 366322

SAT 14

10.00am-5.00pm.  "High Pasture Cave Open Day".  Discover how archaeology can enhance our understanding of the Iron Age through excavation and craft reconstructions. This event is taking place at the High Pasture Cave Excavation Site.  There is a 500m uphill walk to the site (NG594197).  Suitable for families with children aged 6-15 years.

Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Highland Council.  High Pasture Cave Project   Tel: 01471 822562

FRI 13

7.30pm-9.00pm.  "Archaeology Research on Skye - Some Recent Perspectives".  Illustrated talk by Steven Birch, including the Scotland's First Settlers project at An Corran and the High Pasture Cave excavation.  Columba 1400 Centre, Staffin (NG59156750).  Admission £3.00/Conc £2.00.

Sponsored by Centre for Lifelong Learning, University of Aberdeen.  Staffin Community Trust  Tel: 01470 562255

 

 

Lochaber:

MON 02

1.15pm-4.30pm.  "Ranachanmore: Five Farms, Seven Crofts and a Lime Kiln".  Explore the changes in house styles and farm management in the 19th Century in a shortish guided tour.  Meet at Ranachan, 1.5 miles west of Strontian (NM79006143).  No dogs please.  Please note that parking is limited.

Jim Kirby  Tel: 01967 402151

TUE 03

1.15pm-4.30pm.  "Ranachanstrone: Round Houses, Creel Houses and Houses in Stone".  Visit a mill abandoned in 1852 and walk though some of the 30 fields to see what may be some of the earliest house sites in the district.  Meet at Ranachan, 1.5 miles west of Strontian (NM79006143).  No dogs please, please note that parking is limited.

Jim Kirby  Tel: 01967 402151

FRI 06

10.15am-1.00pm.  "Massacre Landrover Safari".  Guided tour visiting the sites of the 1692 Massacre and looking at history and folklore.  Meet outside Glencoe Folk Museum, Glencoe Village.  Admission £15.00.  Please call to book in advance.

NTS  Tel: 01855 811307

SAT 07

10.00am-4.00pm.  "Mr MacSlater's Fun Day".  A family fun day based on the slate quarry at Ballachulish.  Learn about the old industry through activities, crafts and a walk.  Meet at Glencoe Museum, Main Street, Glencoe village (off the A82).  Suitable for ages 4+.  All children must be accompanied by an adult.  Adults £2.00/conc £1.50/children free.  Please bring water proof carrier bag to put "finds" in and to take home everything you make.

Glencoe & North Lorn Folk Museum  Tel: 01855 811664

SUN 08

11.00am-3.00pm approx. "In the Steps of Bonnie Prince Charlie".  A guided walk from Kinlochmoidart to Loch Sheil.  Meet in the car park at the Seven Men of Moidart (NM704728). The going will be easy, but the walk will cover about two miles of fairly rough track. Talk on Monday evening (9th Oct) - see below.

John Dye  Tel: 01967 431222

MON 09

8.00pm-10.00pm. ""I am come home".  An evening talk by Miss Christian Aikman, Secretary of the '45 Association, in the Glenuig Hall. 

John Dye  Tel: 01967 431222

THUR 12

12.00pm-1.00pm.  "Conserving Invergarry Castle" .  Talk, co-presented by Krystyna Pytasz, a structural engineer from Mott MacDonald, and Stephen Watt, a District Architect from the Properties in Care Division of Historic Scotland, explaining the ongoing multi-phase consolidation works at the castle which are being grant aided by Historic Scotland. Meet at the Castle (NH315006).  Suitable for ages 12+.

Historic Scotland  Tel: 01667 462777

THUR 12

2.00pm-4.00pm.  "Inverlochy Castle: What did the 1983-95 excavations reveal?"  Join Sabina Strachan for a guided tour of the Castle focusing on the results of recent excavations.  Meet at the Castle (NN12047542). 

Historic Scotland  Tel: 0131 668 8934

FRI 13

10.15am-1.00pm.  "Massacre Landrover Safari".  Guided tour visiting the sites of the 1692 Massacre and looking at history and folklore.  Meet outside Glencoe Folk Museum, Glencoe Village.  Admission £15.00.  Please call to book in advance.

NTS  Tel: 01855 811307

FRI 13

2.00pm-3.30pm.  "Telford Tales".  A living history family event at the Caledonian Canal - experience  epic engineering and dramatic landscapes where echoes of legends still ring clear.  Meet at Banavie (Ft William) - Neptune's staircase (NN114770).  Call to book.

Great Glen Way Rangers and British Waterways Scotland  Tel: 01320 366633

SAT 14

10.00am-4.00pm.  "Exploring Local History".  Free training course for staff and volunteers involved in local museums and heritage societies in the Highlands at the West Highland Museum, Fort William.  Please call the "Skills Building for the Future"  project for details and to book. This is part of a programme of special free training events in the Highlands and Islands throughout the Autumn and Winter.  Find out more at www.heritage-skills.co.uk

SBFF  Tel: 01463 715225

Earlier Years
Archaeology Week 9 - 17 October 2004

Archaeology Week In Caithness and Highland is in October each year.
For a full list of events in the Highlands check out the Archaeology Unit of Highland Council Web Site Pdf file

Earlier Caithness Events

Knockinnon Castle  In Archaeology Week 13 October 2003

Once a very large castle of which almost nothing remains.  Folk who came on the walk heard how the castle was on an ancient site and built and demolished as a father and son struggled for control of the area.  The site of the castle has commanding views of the coast and unusually inland.

Pictures From Latheronewheel Walk 12 October 03

Houstry 12 October 03

Some Earlier Outings In Archaeology Weeks
Swartigill Burn       See Pictures From The Swartigill Walk on 13 October 2002
Sarclet Harbour and village     See Pictures From The Sarclet Outing on 13 October 2002


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Inside Nybster Broch

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On Spoil Heap


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View From Broch


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Folly built by John Nicholson


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Keiss Broch


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Group discuss


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Looking Past War Memorial

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Entrance