03/08/2016 - If you are up in this part of the world for a day of stones, I think this circle should be included alongside the big hitters of the Grey Cairns, Hill O'Many Stanes etc. It's a nice change to the wildness of many of the sites in Caithness. Only about 6km away from Stemster but the feeling couldn't be more different. Located by the banks of the Burn of Latheronwheel (love that name), nestled between gentle hills the placement of the circle is just perfect. About 8 stones left of a large circle. At this time of year the feeling is one of peace and life. Strong summer colours of greens with fluffy white clouds in a blue, blue sky surround the circle. Timeless, perfect, wonderful...
Not exactly what you would expect up in the wilds of Caithness..... a large stone circle. Even with half the circumference missing this is a great site.
Checked with the farmer, who was only too willing to let me have a look and give directions - great bloke, with a face that could tell a story or two, I'll warrant. From the passing area near the farm, go through the metal five-bar gate and follow the fence-line steeply downhill. An improvised 'stile' gives access to what is literally a water-meadow - i.e make sure you've got your boots or you're in for a paddle, my friends.
The rush of the nearby stream fills the air as it makes its convoluted way towards the sea, but this only adds to the aura of calm here, strangely enough. As for the stones, I count eight, but then my arithmetic's never been up to much. Pretty substantial, too
Back in the car after a couple of hours I suddenly notice the phalanx of wind-generators on the skyline beyond. Talk about juxtaposition of ancient and modern power... right on!
Half of it is missing, but this would be a big circle if complete - 55 metres across. Eight stones are still here. Maybe seven stones missing. The tallest stone is about 1.5 metres tall.
In a beautiful spot in a hollow by a burn (which is in danger of undermining the stones on the western arc).
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