Taken from a cross-slab dating from the 8th century, the Shandwick Stone is part of a triad of stones found along the eastern coast of Ross-shire within a few miles of each other. With the Nigg and Hilton of Cadboll Stones, they are said to be monuments to three Norse brothers whose bodies were washed up on the shore after a great storm. According to the folktale, they were trying to rescue their sister from the evil Earl of Ross at Balnagown Castle.