Broch of ClickiminAbout Broch of Clickimin
The Broch of Clickimin is an Iron Age broch and fortified settlement on Clickimin Loch at the western edge of Lerwick in Shetland. It is one of the better-preserved broch sites with visible stonework and surrounding earthworks.
The complex includes the central round tower typical of brochs together with an outer defensive enclosure and causeway linking the site to the shore. The layout and masonry attract interest from archaeologists and visitors interested in prehistoric Atlantic cultures.
Excavations in the 19th and 20th centuries revealed phases of occupation spanning the later Iron Age and possibly into Pictish periods, showing adaptation of the site over time. Conservation work has stabilised the visible remains and provided interpretive panels for visitors.
The broch sits on Clickimin Loch just outside Lerwick town centre, reachable on foot from Lerwick and forming a prominent local historic landmark in Shetland.
- Accessibility: Located on the western edge of Lerwick and easily reached from the town, making it one of the most accessible broch sites in Shetland.
- Site features: Remains include both the broch (roundstone tower) and an outer fort with a causeway across the loch, giving good photographic viewpoints from the public walkways.
What to See#
- Main broch and fortifications: The broch tower sits on a small promontory into Clickimin Loch and is surrounded by an outer defensive ditch and later settlement remains.
Nearby Attractions to Broch of Clickimin
Best Time to Visit Broch of Clickimin
Late spring to summer for access and lighter winds; always be prepared for quickly changing conditions.
Weather & Climate near Broch of Clickimin
Broch of Clickimin's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 2°C to 15°C. Abundant rainfall (1184 mm/year), wettest in November.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | 2° - 6° | -2° | 129 mm | overcast | 81% | 9.1 m/s | 0.0 low | 6.4h |
| February | Poor | 2° - 6° | -2° | 102 mm | overcast | 81% | 8.6 m/s | 0.0 low | 8.8h |
| March | Poor | 2° - 7° | -1° | 117 mm | overcast | 82% | 8.5 m/s | 0.2 low | 11.6h |
| April | Poor | 3° - 8° | 2° | 70 mm | overcast | 84% | 7.1 m/s | 0.5 moderate | 14.4h |
| May | Acceptable | 6° - 11° | 5° | 52 mm | overcast | 85% | 6.3 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 17.0h |
| June | Acceptable | 8° - 13° | 10° | 57 mm | overcast | 87% | 5.9 m/s | 1.1 high | 18.5h |
| July | Acceptable | 10° - 14° | 12° | 57 mm | overcast | 89% | 5.6 m/s | 1.0 high | 17.8h |
| August | Acceptable | 10° - 15° | 12° | 76 mm | overcast | 88% | 5.7 m/s | 0.7 moderate | 15.4h |
| September | Poor | 9° - 13° | 11° | 112 mm | overcast | 86% | 7.1 m/s | 0.4 low | 12.7h |
| October | Poor | 7° - 11° | 5° | 128 mm | overcast | 84% | 8.0 m/s | 0.1 low | 9.9h |
| November | Poor | 4° - 8° | 2° | 145 mm | overcast | 82% | 8.3 m/s | 0.0 low | 7.2h |
| December | Poor | 3° - 7° | -1° | 139 mm | overcast | 81% | 8.4 m/s | 0.0 low | 5.5h |
How to Get to Broch of Clickimin
From Lerwick town center, the broch is a short drive or a 20-30 minute walk west along the shore; local signage points to the site.
Tips for Visiting Broch of Clickimin
- Arrive at low tide to see the broch's foundation more clearly and to avoid slippery seaweed on the causeway.
- Bring windproof clothing: Shetland's exposure means conditions can change in minutes.