St Orland's Stone

This stone, also known as the Cossins Stone, requires a bit of effort, but repays the output with a magnificent Class 2. Head north from Glamis towards Kirriemuir on the A928. Pass Bridgend on the left, then the turning for Linross, (signposted Linross 1 ¼ miles) also on the left. Slow, and watch for a small turning on the right, leading to what appears to be a cart track. This track is signed "Miekle Cossans 1 ¼ miles" Those without a 4x4 vehicle - park here carefully, trust me! If you have a flash off-road vehicle and know how to use it, carry on up the track, which is designed for tractors and off-road vehicles only.... you have been warned! The track runs parallel to a disused railway line which can be seen on the right hand side. Approximately 1 ¼ miles up this track, past the (now derelict) farm called Cossans, the track bears hard right. If still in a vehicle, park carefully here so as not to block the track.

At this point , bear off to the left and you will find yourself on a good quality path on the disused railway track bed. Walk along this for approximately 500 metres and you will see the stone against the horizon, in the field on your right. . Immediately abreast of the stone, you will see a path leading down the railway embankment and over a stile (the deer fence is otherwise unclimbable). A short walk parallel to the deer fence will bring you to the stone, which is carefully fenced off and has an information plate provided by Historic Scotland. You may enter the enclosure, but remember to close the gate once you've exited. The stone itself is superb, set in a locale with stunning views. The cross face (east) is a classic, though heavily weathered. The west face, however, is possibly more interesting, containing as it does a carving of several men in a boat, which is an unusual feature of Pictish symbols. This stone more than adequately repays any efforts incurred in getting to the site!

My grateful thanks to Peter J. Allan for his update on access to the stone.