SCORD OF BROUSTER
One of the earliest Neolithic farm sites in Shetland
The cache is not at the given coordinates. They are for a prominent information panel, which tells you about the site below. Nothing on the information panel has any bearing on the location of the cache!
The Scord of Brouster is one of the earliest Neolithic farm sites in Shetland, and dated to 2220 BCE. It comprises three houses, several fields surrounded by walls, and a cairn. It is difficult to imagine now, especially when you see the barren landscapes of today, but this area used to be wooded, populated by willow, birch and hazel. These were cleared by the early settlers to create fields that they could fertilise and produce crops. The climate of Shetland became wetter towards 1500 BCE, and peat forming in the surrounding fields eventually forced the farmers to permanently abandon the site and look for more fertile land.
Please respect this ancient and important site; it is part of Britain’s heritage. Enjoy your visit.
The cache is a small clip-lock box in a camo bag.