Tamnafalloch 2012
The bustling town of Callander is the gateway to the spectacular scenery of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. However, this peaceful tourist centre was once a hotly contested frontier zone fought over by bands of warring Celts and Romans.
Callander’s Celtic Forts seeks to provide an active introduction to archaeology through the excavation of one of three forts -Tamnafalloch – that guard the routes through Callander to the north.
Tamnafalloch (hill of strife) NGR NN 6291 0084 – is a natural hillock and the highest point of a ridge overlooking the nature reserve of Flanders Moss. On the hillock are the remains of a small fort, oval on plan and consisting of a single earth rampart and outer ditch. This fort is similar in all respects to Easter Torrie and Brackland Glen, the three forming a compact local type.
Local tradition says that a clan battle was fought at Tamnafalloch between the early families of Menteith and some of their neighbours.
Tamnafalloch overlooks the nature reserve of Flanders Moss
- Project Dates: 15-18 June 2012
- Location: The Trossachs, Scotland
- Cost: 295 UKP includes bunkhouse accommodation. Food and transport to and from site is included (meet at Strathyre outdoor centre at 9 am on Friday 15 June). We also offer archaeology taster days during the project at a cost of £50 per day (N.B. the taster day does not include meals or accommodation).
- Accommodation: bunkhouse (two rooms of 6), with kitchen facilities and showers. All meals are provided in the cost and will be a continental breakfast, packed lunch and cooked dinner (some evening meals maybe provided at the local pub).
- Experience required: None, as training will be provided by professional archaeologists.
- Other activities: There will be tours to nearby Neolithic burial mounds and a Roman fort. On Friday evening there will be an opportunity to attend an informal folk evening at the Lade Inn, Kilmahog.
- What to wear: Scottish weather can change at any time. Sometimes there are four seasons in one day. It is therefore recommended that you come prepared with warm, light-weight clothing, a waterproof coat and stout boots, sun block and a hat.
- Project type: Open to students and volunteers of any age group. Please note that under 16s have to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
This is a joint venture between the team from Rampart Scotland who will carry out the archaeological work and Natural Trossachs who have local specialist knowledge and will be providing the tours and accommodation.
If you would like to book a place or find out more information please contact Anthony Phillips of Natural Trossachs at: mail@naturaltrossachs.co.uk or Mobile: +44 (0) 7917674967
If you have any questions concerning the archaeology please contact Murray Cook at: info@rampartscotland.co.uk
Accommodation will be on the shores of Loch Lubnaig