Step Back In Time
Named by Sir Walter Scott, the ancient Jarlshof settlement offers the unique chance to explore Neolithic history at close quarters
SCOTLAND’S most northerly community is also one of its most ancient, with settlements on Shetland being traced back to around 4320 BC. There is no shortage of fascinating ancient sites and historical gems to uncover, but the settlement at Jarlshof is unmissable.
This Neolithic village can be found nestled at the southern tip of Shetland’s Mainland. From the road you may mistake Jarlshof’s remains for a more modern ruin as from afar the only noticeable landmark is a stone tower, but as you approach the site the complexity of the settlement reveals itself.
Richard Strachan, head of cultural resources at Historic Environment Scotland describes the significance of the discovery of such a well preserved site.
“Exposed during storms in the 19th century, Jarlshof is a fascinating prehistoric and Norse settlement occupying an area of some two hectares – or five acres,” he says. “Archaeological excavation has revealed an extensive area of Neolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age and Norse buildings, with the most recent structure, a laird’s house, dating from the late medieval period.
“The name Jarlshof , meaning ‘Earl’s House’ was invented for the site by Sir Walter Scott who visited in 1814. At that time, only the ruin of the laird’s house was known to exist, the rest of the site still lay buried under sand and turf.”
It is such a rare opportunity to be allowed to explore such a vital piece of Neolithic history up close – at Jarlshof you can walk among the buildings, ducking under the low doorways and twisting through the complex maze of rooms.
Each structure is amazingly well preserved and offers a unique window into life on this settlement that was occupied for more than 4000 years.
The visitor centre, although currently closed until 2021, has a fantastic exhibition with interactive displays alongside an array of fascinating artefacts that will have the whole family keen to learn more about Neolithic life.
For the most seasoned history enthusiast to the youngest of visitors, the intrigue of Jarlshof will captivate the whole family.
Beyond the history, Richard describes the allure of the location itself.
“Jarlshof is popular with visitors, who enjoy the coastal location, with the sounds of crashing waves and the wind ever present. The maze-like layout of structures offers visitors respite from the wind and gives them a sense of discovery as they explore through them.
“Depending on the season, and the weather, Jarlshof offers sightings of wildlife, including sea birds such as fulmars, black guillemots and Arctic terns. Grey and common seals can frequently be seen offshore and very rarely a porpoise or an orca might be spied.”
“The sounds of crashing waves present” and the wind are ever