Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
In 2001 renovation of the Old Scrabster Ice House created what is now the Captain's Galley, serving around 20 different species of seafood all freshly caught by the local fisherman.
Fun Days Out
No recommended Fun Days Out found within 30 miles of this property.
Beach
No recommended Beach found within 30 miles of this property.
Biking & Hiking
No recommended Cycling & Hiking found within 30 miles of this property.
Golf & Sports
No recommended Golf & Sporting Activities found within 30 miles of this property.
Nature Reserves
No recommended Nature Reserves found within 30 miles of this property.
Gardens & Woodlands
No recommended Gardens & Woodlands found within 30 miles of this property.
Local Attractions
Piers Arts Centre is located in a beautiful old stone building in Stromness in Orkney enjoying views out over the waterfront. It is a small building but serves as a valuable art community resource for the local community. It is a bright airy contemporary space that is well laid out and has a nice flow, it houses a permanent collection, as well as temporary exhibits and events throughout the year. It was initially established in 1979 for the purpose of housing art works donated by the renowned author Margaret Gardiner. Today it is home to an important collection of works by a number of notable 20th century artists, as well as talented and recognised local artists. Although not a large centre it is considered to have one of the best collections of 20th century art in the United Kingdom. The temporary exhibits change frequently so there is always something new to see here. Throughout the year a number of events take place that are open to all and can include workshops as well as study groups. In addition to the arts centre, you will also find a library here as well as being home to a number of local community initiatives. Piers Arts Centre is a valuable commodity to the town and is unusual to see in such a rural place it is more like something you would expect to find in London, making it even more special, it would challenge many larger established galleries and is definitely worth a visit if you are here in Orkney.
Orkney Uncovered Tours are specialists in providing private guided tours and small group shore excursions of the Orkney Islands. They incorporate all of Orkney's history, culture, economy, traditions and more, through one of their tours you will discover the true Orkney. Each tour is individual and catered to your personal requirements. They operate everyday of the year and all guides are professional, animated, interactive and knowledgeable, they are passionate about the islands and this enthusiasm is infectious. The itineraries are full but you are at no way rushed during your tour, it is thoroughly enjoyable, informative and interesting. You see so much stunning scenery and the amount of history there is about the islands is astonishing. Orkney Uncovered Tours are a professional company who will give you an unparalleled tour of Orkney, leaving you with many fantastic memories and an appreciation of these fabulous islands.
Wildabout Orkney Tours offer the opportunity to discover all about the past history and mysteries associated with the islands. With a history that extends to 5,000 years there is lots to learn about these fascinating and beguiling islands. You will see some of the finest scenery along this stretch of Scotland and find some of the most welcoming people and the warmest hospitality around. During your time here you will delve into the history, archaeology, culture, wildlife, folklore and spirituality of this remarkable region. Wildabout Orkney offer a choice of personal guided tours, holidays as well as cruise ship shore excursions that are catered to groups or individual travellers. The guides are all highly professional, friendly, passionate and knowledgeable and will enlighten you with lots of information on the islands and its inhabitants. If you are wanting a memorable and enriching experience then a visit to these amazing islands are just what you need, unforgettable.
Orkney Archaeology Tours are the sole tour company in Orkney that are operated by archaeologists, in addition they live and work here throughout the year so have a true comprehension of the island. If you are wanting to delve into Orkney's archaeology, cultural traditions and history then you need to look no further, in addition they know where all the prime spots are to see the seals. They offer a range of all-inclusive holidays that are kept to small numbers with no more than eight guests being on a tour. These tours are extremely popular and do sell out really quickly owing to the quality of these tours. The tour guides are all fully trained and professional as well as being friendly, passionate and informative. They impart so much knowledge about the islands, its archaeology, its cultures and traditions and its inhabitants, their enthusiasm is infectious. Having a professional archaeologist guide is a huge advantage when visiting these islands as there is so many archaeology sites dating from neolithic through to the Second World War. During your time on the islands you will encounter some of the most friendly and welcoming people you will ever encounter. Orkney Archaeology Tours are so well organised and all the equipment needed for your explorations are provided so it is not necessary to take anything other than good walking shoes with you, and you will leave with many fantastic and memorable memories.
MV Valkyrie is a specialist operator of diving holidays on board this 22m former fishing boat. The boat is well maintained and fully equipped with all modern conveniences and has six roomy and comfortable cabins, each with their own sink with both hot and cold water and lots of storage spaces and central heating. On board are two regular toilets and two showers, there are two social areas on board, the passenger lounge is equipped with comfortable seating, a large television, DVD player, large selection of DVD's and books and magazines. The galley accommodates 12 people around the large table, has a hot water urn for tea/coffee, microwave, dishwasher, oven, fridge-freezer. Additionally they have a diver lift with safety mechanism. The boat is served by three professional and capable crew who offer the ultimate in customer service. The food is top notch, freshly cooked and plentiful. They offer a range of diving experiences that vary in length. With MV Valkyrie you are assured a dive with a skilled crew who offer a full dive brief beforehand, detailed diagrams and first class insights into the history of the wrecks here. Scapa Flow offers some of the very best diving in the world and the areas of Orkney and Shetland are fantastic too. MV Valkyrie is a premier diving operator that strives to deliver the top customer service to its customers and ensure a memorable trip.
Peedie Orkney Tours provides a broad choice of private guided tours that can be adapted to your individual requirements. Your tour is aboard a roomy and comfortable vehicle, that can accommodate up to six passengers. If you are a larger group you can be accommodated as well. In addition they offer a service where they will join you in your own vehicle and provide the tour from here. There is a huge number of attractions to see when in Orkney including, amazing archaeological sites, stunning scenery, lots of local wildlife and places of interest like the Highland Park Whisky Distillery. Your guide Diane was born and has lived in Orkney almost all her life so is well qualified to guide you around this wonderful island. She has so much local knowledge and stories to share, Diane is friendly, knowledge and so enthusiastic about Orkney you can't help but fall under its spell. There is lots to see so the help of a guide is invaluable in getting the most out of your visit. So whether you are here for a fleeting visit or a longer stay you can choose a tour that suits you, with choices like Orkney through the Ages, Wartime, Whisky and Vikings, Coasts, Cliffs and Cairns or Orkney's Viking Heritage. Peedie Orkney Tours offer incredible value for money and will leave you with a lasting impression of this fantastic place.
Dawn Star Boat Trips offer an alternative tour of Orkney from the waters. The boat is very comfortable and easily seats six people in the cockpit with further seating available in the wheelhouse, in addition she is fully equipped with all modern electronics and life saving equipment. Your skipper is Laurence and he will run through any particular points on interest you have and try to incorporate them into your trip. Generally a trip will last for 2 1/2 to 3 hours and will take in a number of sites including the war grave/wreck site of the HMS Royal Oak, you will see seals and lots of wildlife as well as seabirds in addition to getting a different view of Orkneys scenery and much more. Laurence has so much information and stories to tell, you will find him to be animated, engaging and passionate. There are binoculars an board should you wish to avail of them. If a photo opportunity should arise just let Laurence know he will be happy to stop. Dawn Star Boats Trips are very reasonably priced, professional, fun and informative and should not be missed if you are in Orkney, whatever your interest history or wildlife this trip is perfect.
Historical & Heritage Sites
Stromness Museum is a quaint independent museum that is operated by a dedicated team of volunteers. It has evolved into a gem of a museum with the purpose to promote natural science and to preserve local history, with a strong emphasis on maritime which, has a big influence on the island. This is done through a range of permanent and temporary exhibits. There are a number of interesting artefacts, it is quite an eclectic collection with fossils, sea shells, stuffed birds, photographs, artefacts from a recent dig on the Ness of Brodgar, WWII memorabilia and much more. It is quite a large museum set out over a number of floors but, it is well laid out and the exhibits are well presented with the relevant information shown and stories about the items on display too. They are open daily and there is a small entrance fee that goes towards the running costs of the museum. The volunteers are so friendly, helpful and obliging and will answer any questions you might have. Stromness Museum represents am old style museum and makes for a fascinating visit with lots to see and so much information is available on the history and wildlife of Orkney, highly recommended as there is something to entertain all ages.
The Viking Centre is the best place to start learning more about the proud history of the Norse people. The centre is located in the area because many Orcadians are descendants of the Norse. Visitors can see authentic Viking landmarks and structures and explore what life was like during the time of the Vikings.
Highland Park Distillery has been producing its award winning whiskies for the past 200 years. The distillery is housed in a beautiful old building and continues to maintain its traditional malting methods, turning the malt by hand and using local ingredients and products, as well as traditional oak casks that all contribute to giving their whiskies their distinctive flavours. They offer a range of tours from the Standard Tour through to the Magnus Eunson Tour, all tours are equally good and all incorporate a short film followed by a tour of the distillery accompanied by a tour guide, and a sample session, you take in the malting floor, the kilns, the casks and ageing process. The more expensive tours are longer and involve an opportunity to taste more of the whiskies from the Highland Park range. The tours are well organised and the tours guides are all excellent, very friendly, knowledgeable and their enthusiasm is infectious. At the end of the tour is a nice gift shop that has a nice array of related souvenirs, glassware and whisky to purchase. Whether you are a whisky connoisseur or not you will thoroughly enjoy a tour of the Highland Park Distillery, it is interesting and informative.
The Orkney Museum is located in Tankerness House, an A-listed building that served as the family home of the Baikie family of Tankerness for 300 hundred years, before becoming a museum in 1968. The museum narrates the story of Orkney, from the Stone Age through the ages right up to current day, covering 5,000 years of history. You are taken through a labyrinth of rooms where, the story unfolds through old photos, exhibits, artefacts, there is so much information at hand here. There are some items that are particularly interesting including the Pict stones and Viking items. It also covers the geography, geology history and archaeological treasures of the island. There are a number of activities and interactive activities available to keep the younger visitors entertained. A visit to the Baikie Library and Drawing Room gives an indication of how the house would have looked when it was a family home. The staff here are very friendly and helpful and will gladly answer any questions that you might have. The museum is open throughout the year with different opening times for Summer and Winter, best to check the website for opening hours and there is no charge for entry. There is a nice museum shop selling a collection of gifts and souvenirs. The Orkney Museum should not be missed if you are in the area, it is really interesting and informative.
Saint Magnus Cathedral holds the title of being Britains most northerly cathedral. The cathedral is also referred to as the "Light in the North", and dates back to 1137 when it was founded by the Vikings, it has seen many changes over the years. The cathedral is a familiar landmark on the landscape and you will find this friendly and welcoming cathedral in the centre of Kirkwall, being the capital city of the Orkney Islands. The doors are open to those who wish to come and worship with the congregation, you will be most welcome. Saint Magnus Cathedral still remains much of its original structure and original carvings that have been weathered through the passage of time. In restoration of the cathedral many of the earlier features have been uncovered and lovingly restored, not least the beautiful stained glass windows, the 250 year old tombs and the little carved bot by Stanley Curister. Today as well as serving as a place of worship, it serves a s a place of tranquillity and reflection within its calming interior. If there is a custodian about, they will be happy to give you a guided tour of this lovely building and and tell you some of the stories surrounding the cathedral and its people, otherwise tours can be arranged in advance with the Cathedral Custodian. The upstairs tour is very good and worth doing as on a nice day the views from the spire tower are superb, well worth the climb. There is no charge to see this lovely cathedral and they do rely on donations for its upkeep. Saint Magnus Cathedral is a gem of a cathedral and should not be missed.
Discover the life-time home of Mary Ann Calder. Built by her grandfather in 1850, the croft's preservation is a tribute to her family but also an important social and historical monument. Take a journey through time and explore this little snippet of history.
Learn all about the Vikings with interactive audiovisual displays at this great visitor centre. Immerse yourself in the pre-Viking kingdom of Catli, admire the hard work in making the iconic Viking long ship and see some Viking coins.
