What to do in Stromness

Activities, attractions and tours

Stromness which includes a coastal town and a bay or harbour
Stromness
Stromness which includes a lake or waterhole and boating
Stromness which includes a hotel and a square or plaza
Stromness featuring rugged coastline and tranquil scenes

Places to Visit in Stromness

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Stromness, Scotland while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Stromness attractions from NZ$547, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Stromness tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 12 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Stromness. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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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 which includes heritage elements, a house and tranquil scenes

2. Dunnet Head Lighthouse

The Dunnet Head Lighthouse is located on the northernmost point of the Scottish mainland, perched on dramatic cliffs that plummet 300 feet (90 meters) into the turbulent Pentland Firth below. Drive or make the rewarding coastal hike up to this scenic viewpoint and enjoy vistas stretching over the sea to Orkney.
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Dunnet Head Lighthouse featuring cuddly or friendly animals and bird life

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 featuring a monument and heritage elements as well as a small group of people

4. 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 which includes tranquil scenes, a monument and heritage elements

5. 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 which includes tranquil scenes

What to do in Stromness

Discover the most popular places to visit in Stromness

Skara Brae featuring heritage architecture and heritage elements

Skara Brae

5/5(3 reviews)

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 featuring a monument and heritage elements as well as a small group of people

Ring of Brogdar

5/5(1 review)

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 interior views and heritage elements

Maes Howe

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

Maes Howe
Stromness which includes a bay or harbour, tranquil scenes and a beach

Bay of Skaill

5/5(2 reviews)

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

4/5(3 reviews)

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

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Stromness

St. Magnus Cathedral which includes heritage architecture, a cemetery and a church or cathedral

Kirkwall

Old Man of Hoy featuring rugged coastline

Hoy Island

Photo "Orphir" by Ian Balcombe (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Ian Balcombe (CC BY-SA)

Orphir

Photo "Harray" by Mark Crook (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Mark Crook (CC BY-SA)

Harray

Frequently asked questions

Is Stromness worth visiting?
Stromness offers an interesting mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into the outdoors, history or traditional food, there are many things you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Stromness?
Start your day with a visit to Stromness Museum and Longhope Lifeboat Museum. Then, check out different parts of Stromness for a quick bite and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Stromness?
The top tourist attraction in Stromness is Stromness Museum, so be sure to include it on your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Stromness?
Three days is enough for a short getaway in Stromness — you'll tick off the main spots and get a good feel for the place. But if you truly want to soak it all in, stay for at least seven to ten days to explore some nearby hotspots too.
What are some activities to do in Stromness with kids?
If you're looking for attractions and activities for all the family, have a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Stromness with kids.

What to do in Stromness for adults?
Lyness Naval Cemetery and Maes Howe are just a couple of the things to do in Stromness. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Stromness?
In Stromness, Stromness Museum is a popular spot for anyone planning to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a top way to explore the best free things to do in Stromness.