What to do in Stenness

Activities, attractions and tours

Maes Howe showing tranquil scenes
Maes Howe which includes heritage elements and art
Standing Stones of Stenness which includes tranquil scenes, heritage elements and a monument
Standing Stones of Stenness featuring a monument, general coastal views and heritage elements
Standing Stones of Stenness which includes tranquil scenes, a monument and heritage elements

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Top places to visit

1. Skara Brae

Learn about prehistoric life at Skara Brae, a small settlement that, despite being thousands of years old, still retains its original shape and structure. The buildings here form one of the best preserved sites of its kind in the British Isles. The layout of the ancient village is still intact, with several of the houses even displaying their original furnishings.
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Skara Brae showing heritage architecture and heritage elements

2. Standing Stones of Stenness

Discover ancient history at the Standing Stones of Stenness. This collection of monoliths forms one of the oldest henge sites in the British Isles and is an ideal starting point to explore the prehistoric legacy of the Orkney Islands. The stunning landscape and diverse wildlife provide additional appeal to this iconic Orcadian landmark.
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Standing Stones of Stenness featuring a monument, general coastal views and heritage elements

3. Ring of Brogdar

The Ring of Brodgar is both an enigmatic historical attraction and an area of spectacular natural beauty. Here, 27 standing stones form a perfect circle with a diameter of about 340 feet (104 meters). Examine the UNESCO-listed site, which sits amid the rolling hills and tranquil lochs of the Orkney Mainland.
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Ring of Brogdar showing a monument and heritage elements as well as a small group of people

4. Earl's Palace

With only a two-story section left standing, the Earl’s Palace lies mostly in ruins today, but it was once considered to be one of Scotland’s most remarkable Renaissance buildings. Discover the remnants of the palace’s beautiful entrance decorations and step inside to see its spectacular fireplace.
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Earl\'s Palace showing a ruin, château or palace and heritage architecture

5. St. Magnus Cathedral

St. Magnus Cathedral is among Orkney’s most recognizable and striking landmarks. Known as the “Light in the North,” this medieval cathedral dominates the skyline of Kirkwall. Inside are memorials to a number of prominent Orcadians. Take a guided tour of the building’s upper levels for wonderful views over the cathedral itself and the surrounding landscape.
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St. Magnus Cathedral showing a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and a cemetery

6. Maes Howe

Maes Howe is among Europe’s finest Neolithic burial chambers. Built around 3,000 B.C., this mysterious structure features remarkably sophisticated stonework. Take a tour of the tomb’s interior and admire its massive sandstones, as well as the intriguing runic graffiti that was added thousands of years after its construction.
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Maes Howe showing heritage elements and interior views

What to do in Stenness

Popular places to visit

Skara Brae showing heritage architecture and heritage elements

Skara Brae

Discover the secrets of Orkney’s earliest inhabitants and find out what life was like during prehistoric times at this beautifully preserved ancient village.

Skara Brae
Ring of Brogdar showing a monument and heritage elements as well as a small group of people

Ring of Brogdar

Delve into the mysteries of this prehistoric landmark, comprising a ring of standing stones set against the wild landscape of the Orkney Islands.

Ring of Brogdar
Maes Howe showing heritage elements and interior views

Maes Howe

Part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site, this fascinating chambered tomb predates the Egyptian pyramids.

Maes Howe
Stromness showing a sandy beach, tranquil scenes and a bay or harbour

Bay of Skaill

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Bay of Skaill during your travels in Stromness. Stroll along the marina or experience the area's museums.

Bay of Skaill

Stromness Ferry Terminal

Explore the waterfront in Stromness with a trip to Stromness Ferry Terminal. Discover the area's hot springs and countryside.

Stromness Ferry Terminal

Stromness Museum

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Stromness Museum during your trip to Stromness. You can enjoy the bars while in the area.

Stromness Museum

Piers Art Centre

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Piers Art Centre in Stromness. Stroll along the marina or discover the area's hot springs.

Piers Art Centre

Barony Mill

Find out about the history of Stromness when you spend time at Barony Mill. Stroll along the marina or experience the area's museums.

Barony Mill