Orkney’s Norse fortress
Cubbie Roo’s Castle is a very rare ruined medieval fortification that was built at a time when the Orkney Islands were ruled by the Kingdom of Norway
Wyre is one of the smallest inhabited islands in the Orkney Islands, with a population of just five people. It is also the location of one of Scotland’s oldest and most unique fortresses: Cubbie Roo’s Castle. The Orkneys were part of Norway from 875 until 1472 and Cubbie Roo’s Castle was built around the years 1145-50. It’s mentioned in the Orkneyinga Saga where it is described as a “fine stone castle”. The saga also records that it was built by a Norwegian named Kolbein Hruga who also apparently lived there.
The separate King Haakon’s Saga describes the castle as “a very unhandy place to attack” and its main building outlines remain well preserved along with its preserved ditches and ramparts. Described as “an ancient labyrinth”, Cubbie Roo’s Castle’s existence is of international significance. It is one of only two Norse castles excavated in Britain, which is extraordinary considering that there are no Norse castles in Scandinavia at all.
Now in the care of Historic Scotland, Cubbie Roo’s Castle is free to visit and open all year round. It is located half a mile from the pier on Wyre and can be reached by ferry from Kirkwall, the largest town on Mainland Orkney.
For more information visit: www.historicenvironment.scot