‘Rare' historic artefacts uncovered by archaeologists at site of brand new Scottish golf course
Some of the historical evidence dates back as far as 6,000 years
ANICENT FINDS 'Rare' historic artefacts uncovered by archaeologists at site of brand new Scottish golf course
ARTEFACTS dating back thousands of years have been uncovered by archaeologists at the site of a brand new golf course in the Scottish Highlands.
Excavations conducted by Avon Archaeology Highland found evidence of at least 25 Neolithic wooden buildings, a prehistoric ceremonial circle, a 3,500-year-old Bronze Age urn plus historic artefacts, including a chariot wheel.
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The findings were revealed on the site of a brand new Scottish golf course which opens next year
Credit: Cabot Highland Archaeology
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The historical evidence dates back thousands of years
Credit: Cabot Highland Archaeology
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Many ancient artefacts were discovered during the dig
Credit: Cabot Highland Archaeology
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The items were uncovered by Avon Archaeology Highland
Credit: Cabot Highland Archaeology
The chariot wheel has been described as "rare" by archaeologists.
The finds were revealed during the construction of the Old Petty Championship Golf Course at Cabot Highlands, near Inverness.
The site covered 50 hectares and archaeologists say the findings "painted a picture" of ancient life in the Highlands, with evidence of medieval field systems and grain-drying kilns also uncovered.
It's believed some origins date back around 6,000 years through to the Middle Ages, which ended around 500 years ago.
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Stuart McColm, Vice-President of Golf Development at Cabot, said: "This has been a remarkable journey from pre-historic times to the present, right here on our doorstep.
'It's humbling to think that our new championship course, Old Petty, will rest on such historically rich ground. We're proud to preserve this heritage while creating a world-class golf experience."
Andy Young, principal archaeologist at Avon Archaeology Highland, labelled the chariot wheel as the best discovery from the dig.
"The partnership with Cabot Highlands has been exemplary," Young also stated.
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"Their commitment to preserving the past while shaping the future is a model for responsible development."
The findings will be documented in detail, with final reports and carbon dating confirmation expected before the end of 2025.
The artefacts will ultimately be submitted to Treasure Trove Scotland and will most likely be retained by either The National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh or the Inverness Museum.
The new Old Petty golf course will open for Preview Play between August 1 and September 30, with the grand opening taking place in the spring of 2026.
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An ancient urn was found
Credit: Cabot Highland Archaeology
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A full report will be made on the discoveries
Credit: Cabot Highland Archaeology
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The site panned across 50 hectares
Credit: Cabot Highland Archaeology
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