Grain 'Earth House', Iron Age Souterrain, Orkney

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Grain Souterrain, also known as an Earth House, is a subterranean Iron Age structure discovered within the Hatston industrial estate on Mainland, Orkney. This ancient site features a curving drystone passage leading to a rounded chamber situated about 2m beneath the current ground surface. Above ground, it's concealed by a modern mound that reveals its underlying plan. Built likely in the 1st millennium BC, excavations have revealed that Grain Souterrain was once part of a larger settlement, which included a second, smaller souterrain. The true purpose of this ancient site remains unknown and may have evolved over time. It could have primarily served as storage, but other potential uses include ritual activities. Grain Souterrain was first excavated in 1857 by Farrer and Petrie, who uncovered charred wood, shellfish, and animal bones within its depths. Today, this significant site is under the care of HES and offers free public access. For more information on visiting Grain Souterrain, please refer to our website. To learn more about the history of this fascinating site, explore the HES Archives.