The Iron Age Crannogs of Ayrshire

Crannogs were Iron Age loch dwellings, dating from around 800BC to 200 AD. They were mainly built from wood with an approach by a causeway, log boat or both. Scotland has at least 350 and Ireland many more with a solitary example in Wales. They may also have been used a religious sites and/or the dwelling of tribal chiefs. Some crannogs were in use until medieval times. Scotland has had a few floating natural islands but although not used as crannogs they are said to have been strong enough to support cattle.