After decades of access, Maeshowe closes to the public

After decades of public access, Maeshowe is due to close to the public next week, with no confirmation on when it might re-open.

The 5,000-year-old Neolithic chambered tomb in Stenness, is part of the UNESCO Heart of Neolithic Orkney, which also includes Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness.

Despite denying there were plans to close the monument, when asked in August, Historic Environment Scotland announced on September 6 that, from September 26, Maeshowe would “temporarily” close to the public due to “health and safety concerns”.

These concerns centre on access to the site and, in particular, vehicular access to the car park at the Tormiston Mill visitor centre.

Making the announcement, HES said there were “significant risks to staff and visitors, which cannot be mitigated effectively at this time.”

While the closure is described as temporary, HES have not said when it might end.