Skara Brae
Step back 5,000 years at Skara Brae, Europe’s most complete Neolithic village and one of the world’s most remarkable prehistoric monuments. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers an unparalleled glimpse into the daily lives of Neolithic people.
Visitor Information:
- Location: Adjacent to the Bay of Skaill, 13 miles north of Stromness
- Opening Hours: Generally 9:30am-5:30pm April-September, shorter hours October-March
- Admission: Adults £9.00, Concessions £7.20, Children £5.40 (prices may vary)
- Facilities: Visitor center, café, gift shop, parking, toilets
- Estimated visit duration: 1-2 hours
Uncovered by a violent storm in 1850, Skara Brae features eight clustered houses with remarkably preserved stone furniture including beds, dressers, and hearths. The level of preservation is so exceptional that archaeologists have nicknamed it the “Scottish Pompeii.” The visitor center includes interactive displays and a full-scale reconstruction of one of the houses, allowing you to step inside and imagine life in Neolithic Orkney.
Maeshowe
Maeshowe stands as one of Europe’s finest chambered tombs, demonstrating the remarkable architectural and astronomical knowledge of Neolithic people. This 5,000-year-old monument is aligned so that the winter solstice sunset illuminates its inner chamber.
Visitor Information:
- Location: Near Stenness, 9 miles northeast of Stromness
- Access: By guided tour only, advance booking recommended
- Opening Hours: Varies seasonally, typically 9:30am-5:30pm April-September
- Admission: Adults £9.00, Concessions £7.20, Children £5.40 (prices may vary)
- Facilities: Visitor center with exhibition, parking, toilets
- Tour duration: Approximately 45 minutes
The tomb’s interior is notable not only for its precise construction but also for the extensive Viking runes carved inside—the largest collection in Northern Europe. These 12th-century inscriptions were left by Norse crusaders who sheltered in the tomb, essentially creating the “graffiti” of their day. The site’s perfect alignment with the midwinter sunset demonstrates the sophisticated understanding of celestial movements possessed by its builders.
The Standing Stones of Stenness
Among the oldest stone circles in Britain, the Standing Stones of Stenness date to around 3100 BCE. Though only four of the original twelve megaliths remain standing, their imposing height—up to 6 meters (19 feet)—creates an awe-inspiring presence in the landscape.
Visitor Information:
- Location: Near the Bridge of Brodgar, 8 miles northeast of Stromness
- Access: Open year-round, 24 hours daily, free entry
- Parking: Small car park shared with nearby sites
- Facilities: Information panels; no toilet facilities
- Estimated visit duration: 30 minutes
The site originally included a large hearth encircled by the stones and was surrounded by a rock-cut ditch and bank. Archaeological evidence suggests it was a place for important ceremonies and gatherings. The central hearth particularly indicates its likely role in communal feasting and rituals. Standing at the stones offers beautiful views across the Loch of Stenness and connecting you to ceremonies performed by Orcadians thousands of years ago.
The Ring of Brodgar
The magnificent Ring of Brodgar is one of the largest and most impressive stone circles in Britain. Originally comprising 60 stones (of which 27 remain standing), this perfect circle spans 104 meters (341 feet) in diameter and is surrounded by a rock-cut ditch.
Visitor Information:
- Location: Approximately 9 miles northeast of Stromness
- Access: Open year-round, 24 hours daily, free entry
- Parking: Dedicated car park
- Facilities: Information panels, paths around site, occasional ranger tours
- Estimated visit duration: 45-60 minutes
- Photography: Particularly atmospheric at sunset or misty mornings
Dating to around 2500-2000 BCE, the Ring of Brodgar forms part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unlike many comparable monuments, it remains unexcavated, preserving its mysteries for future generations. The site occupies a dramatic position on an isthmus between two lochs, and archaeologists believe it served as a major ceremonial center for ancient Orcadians. The area surrounding the main circle contains numerous burial mounds and other archaeological features, suggesting this entire landscape held special significance.
The Brough of Birsay
The Brough of Birsay is a tidal island accessible only at low tide via a causeway, offering a fascinating journey through multiple periods of Orkney’s past. The island contains Pictish, Norse, and medieval remains, making it a unique three-layered archaeological site.
Visitor Information:
- Location: Northwest coast of Mainland, approximately 14 miles north of Stromness
- Access: Check tide times before visiting; causeway is covered except at low tide
- Opening Hours: Historic Scotland site on island open April-September, 9:30am-5:30pm
- Admission: Island access free; Historic Scotland site: Adults £6.00, Concessions £4.80, Children £3.60 (prices may vary)
- Facilities: Small visitor center, café and toilets in nearby Birsay village
- Estimated visit duration: 2-3 hours including crossing time
- Essential: Check tide times and allow plenty of time to return before the causeway floods
Visitors can explore the remains of the Norse settlement including a 12th-century church, the Earl’s palace, and houses. Earlier Pictish carved stones discovered here are now housed in the National Museum of Scotland, though replicas can be seen on site. The island is also home to a small lighthouse and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. The dramatic cliffs on the western side provide nesting sites for numerous seabirds, while the surrounding waters are often visited by seals and occasionally whales or dolphins.
Planning Your Visit
- Transportation: A car is the most convenient way to explore the West Mainland. Limited public bus services are available to some sites.
- Weather: Orkney’s weather can change rapidly; always bring waterproof clothing and dress in layers.
- Explorer Passes: If visiting multiple Historic Scotland sites (Skara Brae, Maeshowe, Brough of Birsay), consider purchasing an Explorer Pass for savings.
- Timing: Many historic sites have seasonal opening hours, with reduced hours or closure during winter months.
- Guided Tours: Local guides offer insightful tours combining multiple sites with transportation from Stromness or Kirkwall.
The West Mainland of Orkney offers an unforgettable journey through time, from ancient Neolithic monuments to dramatic natural landscapes shaped over millennia. We’re happy to help arrange tours or provide more specific information for any of these attractions during your stay with us.