MHG65873 - Platforms - Smoo Inlet

Summary

A rectangular platform which measures 28 m WNW-ESE by 6 m.

Type and Period (1)

Protected Status

  • None recorded

Full Description

A rapid coastal zone assessment survey was conducted by GUARD in the Autumn of 1997 commissioned by Historic Scotland from the Viking and Early Settlement Archaeological Research Project based at the University of Glasgow.

On the grassed slope above the cliffs at the east side of the Smoo inlet is a rectangular platform which measures 28 m WNW-ESE by 6 m and is defined by a low turf bank which is a maximum 0.35 m high where visible. This feature follows the slope down to level out at the west end. There are several sub-circular depressions in the turf around this area which seem to be related more to natural limestone erosion than they are to any structural detail. Approximately 21 m to the north of the platform is a very similar feature which measures 18 m WNW-ESE by 10 m. These platforms may have carried structures of which there is now no remnant or they may have been associated with agriculture.<1>

NGR adjusted based on 2023 vertical aerial photographs. <2>

Sources/Archives (2)

Map

Location

Grid reference Centred NC 4195 6723 (16m by 44m) (2 map features)
Map sheet NC46NW
Geographical Area SUTHERLAND
Civil Parish DURNESS

Finds (0)

Related Monuments/Buildings (0)

Related Investigations/Events (1)

External Links (0)

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