Scheduled MonumentsScotlandLoch Beannacharain,crannog
Iron Age–Medieval · Crannog

Loch Beannacharain,crannog

Scotland
HES SM4003
Period
Iron Age–Medieval
Site type
Crannog
Nation
Scotland
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Historic Environment Scotland

Overview

History & significance

Loch Beannacharain Crannog is a fortified lake dwelling situated in Ross-shire, Scotland, that served as a residence and defensive structure across multiple periods from the Iron Age through the Medieval era. The site consists of a timber-built platform constructed within the loch, a settlement type characteristic of Iron Age and later Scottish Highland communities seeking protection and control over water-based resources. The crannog's prolonged occupation across several centuries demonstrates the strategic importance of lacustrine settlement in this region, with the structure likely supporting domestic activities, storage, and defence against both natural and human threats. Archaeological investigation has revealed evidence of habitation spanning from the Iron Age period through Medieval times, reflecting the site's enduring significance as a locus of settlement in the Highlands.

Loch Beannacharain,crannog is a scheduled monument protected by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM4003. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Loch Beannacharain,crannog?

Loch Beannacharain Crannog is a fortified lake dwelling situated in Ross-shire, Scotland, that served as a residence and defensive structure across multiple periods from the Iron Age through the Medieval era. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM4003.

What period does Loch Beannacharain,crannog date from?

Loch Beannacharain,crannog dates from the iron age–medieval period, and is classified as a crannog. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across Britain.

Who is responsible for protecting Loch Beannacharain,crannog?

Loch Beannacharain,crannog is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic Environment Scotland — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Scotland. The official designation reference is SM4003.

What other scheduled monuments are near Loch Beannacharain,crannog?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Carnoch, dun 260m SSW of Croft House (0.7 km), Dun, 790m NNE of Glenmeanich (5 km).

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