Aboyne Stone Circle

Aboyne Stone Circle in a remarkably small stone circle, consisting of five stones. It can be found hidden a pretty woodland known locally as Image Wood near Aboyne.

Although the stone circle consists of five stones, it is classified as a four poster stone circle by Historic Environment Scotland. Apparently, this is due to the uncertainty around whether the northernmost stone (leaning North) stands in its original position. The prominence of the four remaining stones form a quadrilateral shape, hence four poster stone circle.

That said, a 2016 survey discussed findings from 1927 which raising the question of the circle having missing stones. In this scenario, the circle most likely had 6 stones, which would have made the original setting symmetrical. If this is the case, then it could date from the Early Bronze Age, based on comparisons with other six-stone settings.

One thing we do know is that the stone circle appears on the 1st edition OS Maps for Scotland which were produced in the mid 1800's.

Of course there is another theory, which is that it was constructed as a feature for the nearby Aboyne Castle.

Whatever the case may be, it is a lovely little stone circle in a great location, so well worth a visit.

To reach the stone circle, park at the Aboyne Cemetery. Follow the path past the Community Shed.

Make sure you do not miss the path on the left into the woodlands, just before the open fields.

Follow the path, keeping right when it forks. Keep your eyes peeled for this hidden gem.

It is less than 0.5km to reach the stone circle.

Follow the above route, or find on OS Maps.