Whithorn Iron Age Roundhouse

In the town of Whithorn, lies a remarkable historical monument: the Whithorn Iron Age Roundhouse. A meticulously reconstructed dwelling offers a glimpse into the lives of the people who inhabited this region over 2,000 years ago.

The Whithorn Roundhouse is a full-scale replica of a typical Iron Age roundhouse, based on archaeological evidence from excavations at the nearby Black Loch of Myrton. The original roundhouse, dating back to around 430 BC, was exceptionally well-preserved due to the surrounding peat bog and provided invaluable insights into the construction techniques, layout, and daily life of its inhabitants.

There is another link to roundhouses nearby, as some far less well preserved remains were found near Whithorn.

The reconstruction of the Whithorn Roundhouse is a testament to the meticulous research and craftsmanship involved. Using traditional methods and materials, skilled artisans have recreated the roundhouse's distinctive features, including its circular shape, thatched roof, and internal layout.

It is thought that the roundhouse served as both a home and a communal space for its inhabitants. The central hearth, a focal point of the dwelling, was used for cooking, heating, and light. Surrounding the hearth were sleeping platforms, storage areas, and workspaces. The roundhouse was also home to livestock, which shared the living space with humans.

Life in an Iron Age roundhouse was far from easy. The inhabitants faced constant challenges, including harsh weather, limited resources, and the occasional threat of raids from neighbouring tribes. Despite these difficulties, they developed innovative ways to survive and thrive in their environment. They cultivated crops, raised animals, and engaged in hunting and gathering activities.

It is of course quite difficult to know exactly how people lived in that period as there are no real records so much is theory, and our guide Ruaridh had to admit more than once that he didn't really know the answer to something, but they work out what they can with the evidence they do have.

For example, there was no evidence of any weapons in the roundhouse remains found nearby which suggests that there weren't too many issues with warring tribes or families. A lack of other material finds also suggested that the roundhouses may well have just been left while the family moved on elsewhere taking all their things with them.

Experienced guides share fascinating stories about the people who lived in the roundhouse, their daily routines, and the challenges they faced. Visitors can also explore the nearby Whithorn Priory and Museum, and you can purchase your ticket for the Roundhouse, Priory and Museum at the Whithorn Trust building round the corner, which houses a collection of artifacts from the Whithorn area dating from the Iron Age and other periods of Whithorn's almost 2000 year history.