Bay of Skaill: Gateway to Neolithic Wonders and Coastal Heritage
Explore Bay of Skaill’s sweeping sands and ancient shores, home to the remarkable Neolithic village of Skara Brae and dramatic Atlantic vistas.
Bay of Skaill, located on Mainland Orkney’s west coast, is a sweeping sandy bay renowned for its proximity to the extraordinary Neolithic village of Skara Brae. This dramatic coastal landscape offers visitors a blend of prehistoric history, natural beauty, and cultural significance, with views of the Atlantic Ocean, eroding archaeological sites, and the historic Skaill House estate nearby.
A brief summary to Bay of Skaill
- GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance for Skara Brae and Skaill House, as access to the Neolithic village is ticketed and popular.
- Visit at low tide to experience the full expanse of the sandy beach and explore the Hole o' Row sea cave.
- Wear sturdy footwear for walking along the uneven coastal paths and dunes around the bay.
- Combine your visit with Skaill House to gain insight into the historical continuity of the area from Neolithic to modern times.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Kirkwall to Sandwick, which runs several times daily and takes approximately 40–50 minutes. From Sandwick, a 15-minute walk along well-marked paths leads to Bay of Skaill. Bus fares range from £5 to £8 one way. Service frequency may be limited on weekends and public holidays.
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Car
Driving from Kirkwall to Bay of Skaill takes about 25 minutes via the A965 and B9056 roads. Limited parking is available near the Skara Brae visitor centre and Skaill House. Parking is free but can fill quickly during peak season. The roads are narrow and rural, so cautious driving is advised.
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Walking
For the adventurous, a scenic 2-hour walk from Stromness to Bay of Skaill follows coastal footpaths with varied terrain, including some uneven and rocky sections. Suitable for experienced walkers with good footwear. No facilities en route.
Bay of Skaill location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bay of Skaill
Ancient Roots and Archaeological Significance
The Bay of Skaill is best known as the setting for Skara Brae, one of the most complete and well-preserved Neolithic settlements in northern Europe, dating back to around 3100–2500 BC. Discovered after a violent storm in 1850 uncovered stone structures beneath the earth, Skara Brae reveals a cluster of ten stone-built houses with hearths, cupboards, and an early sewer system, offering a rare glimpse into prehistoric life. The bay itself has witnessed millennia of change, with rising sea levels and shifting sands gradually reshaping the landscape and exposing archaeological remains, including Norse longhouses and Iron Age sites such as the nearby Castle of Snusgar and the Knowe of Verron broch on the cliffs above the bay.Natural Beauty and Coastal Atmosphere
The bay stretches as a wide sandy beach below the ancient village, offering expansive views across the Atlantic Ocean. When the tide recedes, the beach extends for miles, creating a tranquil yet wild environment where visitors can breathe in the fresh sea air, watch surfers riding the waves, or explore the dramatic Hole o' Row—a sea-worn hole carved through the cliffs. The surrounding dunes and grasslands add to the rugged charm, providing habitats for local wildlife and a scenic backdrop to this historic coastline.The Legacy of Skaill House and Historical Continuity
Overlooking the bay stands Skaill House, a 17th-century mansion with deep ties to the area’s history. Built in 1620 for Bishop George Graham and later expanded by the Watt family, Skaill House was home to William Watt, the laird who first excavated Skara Brae. Today, the house offers visitors a chance to explore centuries of Orkney’s social and political history, with period furnishings, family memorabilia, and exhibits linking the estate to the Neolithic past. The estate’s gardens and terraces provide peaceful spaces to reflect on the continuity of human habitation here from prehistoric times to the present.Visitor Experience and Cultural Context
The Bay of Skaill is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site, a cultural landscape that includes ceremonial stone circles and burial sites, underscoring the area’s importance in prehistoric Europe. Visitors can explore Skara Brae via a ticketed visitor centre that offers interactive exhibits and a replica house, enhancing understanding of Neolithic life. The bay itself is popular for walking, sandcastle building, and observing the natural coastal environment. Its Norse heritage is also evident in place names and archaeological finds, reflecting a long history of human settlement and maritime activity.Environmental and Archaeological Challenges
Coastal erosion remains a significant concern, with parts of the ancient settlement and surrounding archaeological sites threatened by the sea’s encroachment. Ongoing research and conservation efforts aim to protect and interpret this fragile heritage. The landscape’s dynamic nature, shaped by natural forces over thousands of years, continues to reveal new insights into Orkney’s past while offering visitors a vivid connection to the rhythms of the natural world.Engagement with Orkney’s Living Heritage
Beyond its ancient monuments, the Bay of Skaill area remains a vibrant part of Orkney’s community life. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the bay’s open spaces for recreation, and cultural events such as the Orkney Archaeology Festival highlight the region’s rich history. The juxtaposition of prehistoric ruins, historic estates, and natural beauty makes Bay of Skaill a compelling destination for those interested in archaeology, history, and coastal landscapes.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Cannon
11.1 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
30.9 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
31.2 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
Above and Beyond Tours
47.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
John O'Groats Signpost
48.2 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Bay of Sannick
48.6 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of the Bay of Sannick, a stunning coastal gem in John o' Groats, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Duncansby Head Lighthouse
49.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Duncansby Head Lighthouse, a must-see landmark on Scotland's northern coast.
Duncansby Stacks
50.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Duncansby Stacks, a natural marvel of towering cliffs and vibrant wildlife on Scotland's stunning coastline.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
50.8 km
Discover the captivating history and culture of Castletown at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, a unique museum in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Harold’s Tower
51.0 km
Discover the charm and history of Harold's Tower in Thurso, a stunning heritage site offering breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
51.2 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Old St Peter’s Church, Thurso
51.9 km
Discover the architectural splendor and rich history of Old St Peter’s Church, a must-visit historical landmark in Thurso, Scotland.
Caithness Agricultural Society
51.9 km
Experience the rich agricultural heritage of Caithness at the Caithness Agricultural Society, a vibrant hub for farming enthusiasts and tourists.
North Coast Visitor Centre
52.0 km
Discover the North Coast Visitor Centre in Thurso, a museum and café that showcases Scotland's stunning northern coastline and rich cultural heritage.
Things Va
53.2 km
Uncover the secrets of Scotland's ancient heritage at Thurso Broch, a remarkable historical site that whispers tales of the past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Skara Brae Prehistoric Village
0.6 km
Step back 5,000 years at Skara Brae, Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic village with stone houses, ancient furniture, and immersive exhibitions.
Skara Brae Visitor Centre
0.7 km
Explore one of Europe’s oldest and best-preserved Neolithic villages with a modern visitor centre and rich archaeological insights on Orkney’s stunning coast.
Skaill House Falconry
0.8 km
Experience Orkney’s captivating birds of prey up close in a family-run falconry set within historic grounds near Skara Brae.
Skaill House
0.8 km
Explore Skaill House, Orkney’s finest 17th-century mansion, steeped in history and linked to the ancient Neolithic village of Skara Brae.
Broch of Borwick
2.7 km
Discover the atmospheric Broch of Borwick, a rugged Iron Age relic perched on Orkney’s wild west coast cliffs.
Borwick Castle Sea Stack
2.8 km
Explore the dramatic Borwick Castle Sea Stack and ancient Iron Age broch perched on Orkney’s rugged, windswept coastline.
Yesnaby
3.5 km
Dramatic sandstone cliffs, ancient fossils, and the iconic two-legged sea stack create a captivating coastal experience on Orkney’s wild west shore.
Yesnaby Castle sea stack
4.2 km
Dramatic 115-foot sandstone sea stack with a natural arch, set amid wild cliffs and crashing Atlantic waves on Orkney’s west coast.
HMS TERN (RNAS Twatt)
4.2 km
Explore HMS TERN in Twatt, Orkney—a historical landmark offering insights into naval aviation and the region's wartime heritage amidst stunning natural beauty.
Orkney FolkLore and Storytelling Centre (Via House)
4.2 km
Experience Orkney’s rich maritime legends and island folklore around the peat fire in a unique cultural storytelling centre near Stromness.
Orkney Attractions
4.3 km
Immerse yourself in Orkney’s rich oral heritage through storytelling, guided walks, and cultural workshops at this unique visitor centre.
Yesnaby Coastal Walk
4.6 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and ancient fossil-rich sandstone of Yesnaby Coastal Walk near Stromness, a dramatic and scenic Orkney hiking experience.
RSPB Scotland Marwick Head Nature Reserve
4.7 km
Experience Orkney’s dramatic cliffs, vibrant seabird colonies, and poignant history at RSPB Scotland Marwick Head Nature Reserve.
Marwick Head
5.1 km
Dramatic cliffs, vast seabird colonies, and a poignant WWI memorial converge at Orkney’s breathtaking Marwick Head.
Castaway Crafts
6.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures and authentic Orkney artistry at Castaway Crafts, nestled in the cozy charm of Rose Cottage, Dounby.
Essential places to dine
The Skerries Restaurant
6.6 km
Experience exquisite local seafood with breathtaking views at The Skerries Restaurant by Loch of Harray in Orkney’s tranquil natural setting.
Julia's Cafe Bistro
10.3 km
Cozy cafe in Stromness offering freshly made rolls with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Adam's Place
10.3 km
Fresh local seafood and an acclaimed wine list await you at Adam's Place, a cozy culinary highlight on Stromness’s waterfront.
Ferry Inn Stromness
10.3 km
A cozy, historic inn on Stromness harbour offering hearty local cuisine and warm hospitality just steps from the ferry terminal.
The Hamnavoe Restaurant
10.6 km
A cozy, historic Stromness restaurant serving innovative seasonal dishes blending Orkney seafood with European and Asian flavors.
Leigh's Real Taste of Orkney
14.2 km
Discover Orkney’s finest takeaway flavors at Leigh's, where local produce meets generous portions and friendly service in Finstown.
Eviedale Bistro & Bakehouse
14.8 km
Orkney's pioneering sourdough bakery and wood-fired pizzeria, where artisanal craft meets island hospitality.
The Foveran
22.0 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
23.1 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Busters Diner
23.2 km
A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
Happy Haddock
23.2 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Bothy Bar
23.2 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Helgi's
23.2 km
A vibrant harbourfront gastropub blending Orkney’s Viking heritage with fresh local fare and lively community spirit.
Lucano
23.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
Dil Se Restaurant
23.2 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Kirkwall’s award-winning Dil Se Restaurant, blending tradition with local freshness.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Orkney Antique Centre
7.3 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through a captivating collection of antiques in the historic former community centre of Birsay.
Waterfront Gallery
10.6 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and local artistry at Waterfront Gallery, a cultural gem in the heart of Stromness.
Cream
10.6 km
Explore Cream in Stromness for unique gifts, local art, and a taste of Orkney's creativity.
Vintage Paper Co
10.8 km
Discover handmade papers, artisanal bookbinding, and unique stationery in the heart of Stromness at Vintage Paper Co.
Woolshed
13.3 km
Discover authentic Orkney woolcraft at The Woolshed, a historic knit shop and workshop set amidst stunning island landscapes.
Heksmoar
13.9 km
A charming craft shop in Stromness showcasing handcrafted Orcadian textiles, ceramics, jewellery and art in a warm, welcoming space.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
22.7 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Judith Glue
23.2 km
Discover Kirkwall’s charming Aladdin’s Cave of local gifts, knitwear, and jewellery at Judith Glue, a beloved hub of Orcadian craftsmanship since 1976.
The Longship
23.2 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Orkney Tweed
23.2 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Blue Joe's
23.2 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and unique souvenirs at Blue Joe's, Kirkwall’s charming gift shop full of local treasures and stories.
Aurora Jewellery
23.2 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
23.2 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Orkney Souvenirs
23.2 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and local treasures in Kirkwall’s welcoming souvenir shop, celebrating island heritage and artistry.
Anchor Shopping Centre
23.3 km
A compact, modern shopping mall in central Kirkwall, offering everyday essentials, fashion, health and beauty, and practical services in a convenient indoor setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Taversoe
19.1 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
23.0 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Oot The Back
23.1 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Auld Motor Hoose
23.1 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
23.2 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Highland Park Bar
23.2 km
A cozy Kirkwall bar serving an extensive range of Highland Park whiskies and local drinks in a warm, inviting atmosphere within the Kirkwall Hotel.
Skippers
23.2 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
23.2 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
23.2 km
Discover Kirkwall’s historic Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar, home to over 1,000 whiskies, 160 gins, and authentic Orcadian hospitality in a 350-year-old setting.
The West End Guest House
23.3 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
33.7 km
A warm, family-run coffeehouse and bar in historic St Margaret's Hope, serving traditional fare, local drinks, and inclusive menus in a charming setting.
The Belsair
46.6 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
The Mey Hotel
46.9 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
48.2 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Peerie Cafe
50.7 km
Experience delightful flavors and breathtaking views at Peerie Cafe, your cozy retreat by the Thurso harbor.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Orkney Club
23.2 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
52.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
69.5 km
Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly