Standing Stones of Lundin

Lundin Links, a small, picturesque village in Fife, Scotland, is well-known for its historic golf courses that attract sports enthusiasts from far and wide. However, there's more to this place than just its lush fairways and challenging greens.

Amidst the golfing grounds, Lundin Links holds a unique treasure that transcends the realm of sports and delves deep into the mystery of ancient history. Here, on the second hole of the Lundin Links Ladies Golf Course (the oldest women's golf course in the world), one encounters a trio of impressive standing stones, looking wonderfully out of place against the manicured landscape.

These stones' origins and purposes remain shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Stories passed down through generations suggest that these monoliths served as a sacred site for Druid ceremonies. Archaeological discoveries in the vicinity somewhat substantiate this theory: several stone cists dating back around two millennia. Despite these uncertainties, one fact remains irrefutable: the Lundin Links stones rank among Scotland's most awe-inspiring prehistoric relics.

Lundin Links Ladies Golf Course

Lundin Links Ladies Golf Course, the setting for the Standing Stones, is a charming and historically significant golf course located in the village of Lundin Links, Fife, Scotland. Known as one of the world's oldest remaining ladies' golf clubs, the club is managed solely by its female members, although men and boys are also welcome to play.

The golf club's inception can be traced back to May 30, 1890, when it was mentioned in The Scotsman newspaper as the site of a women's competition on a temporary 9-hole course. The formal establishment of the club occurred in the following year, 1891, on a portion of the land now occupied by Lundin Golf Club. The ladies' club moved to its current location, Standing Stanes Park, in 1910. James Braid, a five-time Open Champion, designed the park's course.

The stones stand guard on the northern edge of the Ladies' golf course's second fairway, a stone's throw from the main A road through Lundin Links village. Permission should be sought from the clubhouse or Starter's hut if it is open.

From the hut, the silhouettes of the stones are easily discernible, but visitors should remain cautious of golfers. I had known these standing stones were tall, but only upon seeing them in person did I genuinely grasp their enormity - they are simply colossal!

Positioned within the meticulously maintained landscape of a golf course, these standing stones contrast the typically rugged and untamed locations of most British stone circles. This juxtaposition only enhances their allure, making the Lundin Links stones an even more striking sight to behold.

Three Standing Stones of Lundin

These megaliths, crookedly shaped and crafted from sandstone, are impressive in their size and antiquity. Towering between 14 to 17 feet tall, they command attention and respect, reminiscent of the remarkable engineering skills of our ancestors.

These colossal pillars are believed to date back to the Bronze Age, around the 2nd millennium BCE, making them some of the oldest historical artefacts in the region. Their origin sparks curiosity and intrigue, inviting visitors to delve into the mysteries of the past.

The standing stones are thought to be remnants of an ancient stone circle, a typical monument in prehistoric Europe. These circles were often constructed as part of rituals, ceremonies, or for astronomical purposes, although their exact function remains a subject of speculation and debate among historians and archaeologists.

At some point, the site was used for burials as a skull was found in 1844 within a coffin built of loose slabs directly next to the stones.

Interestingly, the Lundin Links standing stones were originally a quartet. However, the fourth stone went missing in the 18th century, and its whereabouts remain unknown. Despite this loss, the remaining trio continues to capture the imagination of those who visit, offering a glimpse into an ancient world that once was.

More information can be obtained on the Canmore website.

How to get to Lundin Links Standing Stones

The stones are located just 120m north of the Old Manor Hotel, off the A915 (Leven Road) at Lundin Links Golf Course, and directly opposite Pilmuir Road. There is an entrance to the site on Woodielea Road, a further 500m along Leven Road (on the east side of the golf course), where visitors need to ask for permission to access the standing stones. Please don't just waltz through the golf course to access the stones.

The stones are impossible to miss as they rise majestically above the flat expanse of the greens, a stark contrast to their carefully groomed surroundings.

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Directions:

1. Enter Lundin Links village from the east or west via the A915.

2. Park at Lundin Ladies Golf Club by turning north off the A915; brown tourist signs mark the way.

3. Enquire within the golf club to get permission to visit the stones.

4. Follow the path westwards to reach the stones.

FAQs on Lundin Links Stones

Here are a few frequently asked questions on Lundin Links Standing Stones.

Are the Lundin Links Standing Stones publicly accessible?

Before venturing to the stones, permission should be sought from the Lundin Ladies Golf Club starter hut or building. Watch out for golf balls!

Are the Lundin Stones the tallest standing stones in Scotland?

No, even bigger stones can be found on the Isle of Lewis! Clach an Trushal is the tallest stone at 19ft / 5.8m found near the village of Ballantrushal.

Are the Lundin Links Standing Stones related to the Picts?

No, the standing stones predate the Picts by thousands of years. If you're interested in the Picts, you could visit Strathmiglo Pictish Symbol Stone some distance to the northwest.

Key information on Standing Stones of Lundin

• Lundin Links is a small village in Fife, Scotland, known for its historic golf courses, one of which is the Lundin Links Ladies Golf Course.

• On the second hole of this golf course, there are three standing stones dating back to the Bronze Age, believed to be the remnants of an ancient stone circle.

• These megaliths, made of sandstone, stand between 14 to 17 feet tall.

• The Lundin Links Ladies Golf Course is one of the world's oldest remaining ladies' golf clubs, having been established in 1891.

• The stones became a scheduled monument in 1937.

• The stones are located on the northern edge of the Ladies' golf course's second fairway. Permission should be sought from the clubhouse or Starter's hut to visit them.

• There were originally four stones, but the fourth one went missing in the 18th century.

• Visitors should ask permission from the Lundin Ladies Golf Club starter hut or building before venturing to the stones.

Conclusion - Lundin links Standing Stones

Although the Lundin Links aren't the biggest or most impressive standing stones in Scotland, their size and shape are unique and worth visiting while in central Fife.