Ousdale Broch

The area surrounding the broch is rich in both prehistoric and historical archaeological remains. The name ‘Ousdale’ has a Norse origin, suggestive of a strong Norse presence in the area; there are similar indications in the names of neighbouring towns (Helmsdale, Berriedale) and at sites along the east Caithness coast. Ousdale – or Eyesteindal – is mentioned in the Orkneyinga Saga as the site of a confrontation in 1201 between William the Lion, king of Scotland, and the Norse jarl Harald the Elder (Harald Maddadsson), ruler of Caithness and Orkney. William, upon hearing of Harald's cruel behaviour towards the people of Thurso in asserting his power, had sent an army north to control the…

Ousdale is classified as a ‘second-phase’ broch, dating to the 3rd to 2nd century BC. It has a solid base and an external diameter of around 16 metres, with some walls still reaching over 3 metres in places. A ditch may have surrounded the structure, and there are some indications of outbuildings. The main entrance is on the southwest, and the passageway, which retains almost all of its original roofing lintels, measures 4.3m long, 1.78m high, and 75 cm in width. The entrance passage contains two sets of door-checks, and there is also a guard cell. The central court has an internal diameter of around 7m, and there is a doorway leading to an intramural stairway, similar to those still…