04 – House Byres 10 and 11

An artist's impression of buildings 10 and 11 during occupation
An artist's impression of buildings 10 and 11 during occupation

Most of the buildings are house byres similar to Building 13, but each has its own characteristics, and several have undergone changes of use indicated both by floor plans and the range of objects found. The position of the crucks in most of the buildings must have been above floor level as the slots were not found.

Building No 10 had been extensively demolished but it was still possible to see that the byre drain had been filled in to create a house with a raised sleeping area for the inhabitants. Note the broken rotary quern used as a floor stone. The gable at the byre end has been replaced, reducing the length of the building.

Building No 11 was well preserved with three successive hearths at the house end and a small chamber of unknown use. At the byre end the drain can clearly be seen. A common feature is the cobbled roadway between the buildings.

Buildings 10 and 11
Plan of buildings 10 and 11

Route Marker 5