Tealing, souterrain

Tealing Earth House is an Iron Age souterrain near the village of Tealing in Angus. It lies beneath a quiet field, its entrance marked by a low stone passage. The site dates from the first and second centuries AD and was likely used for storage. The souterrain curves gently through the ground for about 24 metres, with walls just over two metres high. Two decorated Bronze Age stones were reused in its construction, adding an unexpected touch of art to the underground space. The souterrain was discovered in 1871 by a farmer while ploughing. Three years later, antiquarian Andrew Jervise excavated the site and found compartments, a small room at the end, and various objects. These included animal bones, pottery fragments, ten quern-stones, and pieces of Roman glass and pottery. The finds suggest the souterrain was used over many centuries, even after the Iron Age. In the 1970s, repairs altered parts of the original structure to preserve it. Visitors today walk along a modern path that leads down into the souterrain. The underground passage is dimly lit, with stone walls curving overhead. The reused Bronze Age stones can still be seen embedded in the structure. The site offers a quiet, atmospheric glimpse into Iron Age life. Nearby fields stretch out under open skies, contrasting with the enclosed underground space.