Stromness: Orkney’s Historic Seaport and Cultural Hub
Historic Stromness: Orkney’s charming seaport where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and stunning coastal landscapes.
Stromness is a captivating historic town on Orkney’s Mainland, renowned for its maritime heritage, winding stone streets, and vibrant arts scene. Nestled on the sheltered shores of Hamnavoe inlet, this picturesque town offers a blend of old-world charm, cultural attractions like the Pier Arts Centre, and access to nearby islands. Its rich history as a Viking safe haven and key trading port is reflected in its architecture and museums, making it a unique gateway to Orkney’s natural and cultural treasures.
A brief summary to Hoy
- Stromness, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the Pier Arts Centre for world-class contemporary art in a stunning waterfront setting.
- Explore the narrow winding streets on foot to discover hidden alleys, local shops, and historic plaques.
- Take a ferry from Stromness to nearby islands like Hoy and Graemsay for scenic walks and wildlife spotting.
- Attend the Orkney Folk Festival in May to experience lively traditional music and local culture.
- Don’t miss the Stromness Museum for fascinating exhibits on the town’s maritime and Arctic exploration history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Ferry
NorthLink Ferries operate regular sailings between Stromness and Scrabster on mainland Scotland, with journeys lasting approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Tickets range from £20 to £50 depending on season and booking time. The ferry terminal is adjacent to the town center, offering convenient access but limited parking nearby.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Stromness to Kirkwall and other Orkney destinations, with travel times from Kirkwall around 40 to 60 minutes. Buses depart from the Stromness Travel Centre near the ferry terminal. Tickets are affordable, typically under £5, but services may be less frequent on weekends.
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Car
Driving to Stromness from Kirkwall takes about 30 to 40 minutes via the A965 road. Parking is available in town but can be limited during peak times. Roads are well maintained but narrow in places; caution is advised during winter months.
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Cycling
Cycle hire is available in Stromness, allowing exploration of the town and surrounding areas at your own pace. The terrain includes some hills, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Booking in advance is advised during summer months.
Hoy 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 Hoy
A Maritime Legacy Shaping Stromness
Stromness’s story is deeply intertwined with the sea. Originally known as Hamnavoe, meaning ‘haven bay’, it served as a safe anchorage for Viking ships and later became a vital harbor during the 17th and 18th centuries when British maritime routes shifted due to war. The town’s sheltered inlet, Hamnavoe, provided refuge for whaling fleets, Hudson’s Bay Company ships, and explorers such as Captain Cook, whose vessels stopped here in 1780. The harbor remains the town’s heart, bustling with fishing boats, dive vessels exploring the nearby Scapa Flow wrecks, and ferries connecting to surrounding islands.Historic Streets and Architectural Character
Stromness’s compact old town stretches along a single winding main street, lined with tightly packed stone houses and shops. The street changes names multiple times as it meanders between the shoreline and the hillside, intersected by narrow alleys and lanes that reveal the town’s layered history. Early buildings were constructed from local flagstone quarried nearby, and Victorian villas built by prosperous sea captains still grace the hillsides. The town’s architecture reflects its evolution from a fishing and maritime service center to a vibrant community with a strong cultural identity.Culture and Artistic Vibrancy
Beyond its maritime roots, Stromness is a thriving cultural hub. The Pier Arts Centre showcases exceptional modern and contemporary art, drawing visitors year-round. The Stromness Museum offers fascinating exhibits on the town’s history, including Inuit artifacts and whaling relics brought back by local sailors. Annual events like the Orkney Folk Festival enliven the town with traditional music and celebrations, while independent shops, galleries, and cafes add to its welcoming atmosphere.Natural Beauty and Coastal Experiences
The town’s location on Orkney’s west coast provides spectacular coastal views and access to rugged cliffs, beaches, and walking trails. The Point of Ness headland offers panoramic vistas of the Atlantic and nearby islands such as Hoy and Graemsay. Stromness is also a gateway for exploring Orkney’s renowned archaeological sites, including the nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites of Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar, blending natural beauty with ancient history.Modern Amenities and Connectivity
Stromness balances its historic charm with modern facilities. It serves as the main ferry port for Orkney, with regular sailings to mainland Scotland and neighboring islands. The town offers amenities including shops, eateries, and public services, making it a convenient base for visitors. The marina caters to leisure sailors and divers, supporting the local economy and tourism. Despite its small size, Stromness remains lively and accessible, with bus connections and cycle hire available.A Living Town with Deep Roots
With a population of around 2,500, Stromness retains a strong community spirit. Its streets echo with centuries of maritime tales, from Viking times through whaling and Atlantic trade, to modern renewable energy initiatives. The town’s layered history, cultural richness, and stunning setting make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking both heritage and natural splendor.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Cannon
11.4 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
Churchill Barriers
25.0 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
25.0 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Above and Beyond Tours
25.8 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
27.7 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
29.1 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Geise Farm
34.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Geise Farm in Thurso, where nature, tranquility, and rural charm come together for a perfect escape.
Knowe of Lairo
34.8 km
Explore the ancient burial site of Knowe of Lairo on Rousay Island, a key historical attraction in Orkney, rich in Neolithic heritage and stunning landscapes.
Knowe Of Yarso
35.0 km
Explore the ancient Knowe Of Yarso, a Neolithic chambered cairn in Rousay, Orkney, steeped in history and stunning natural beauty.
Taversöe Tuick
35.8 km
Explore the ancient mysteries of Taversöe Tuick, a stunning chambered cairn nestled in Orkney's breathtaking landscape, rich in history and natural beauty.
Caithness Broch Centre
35.9 km
Explore the ancient Iron Age at the Caithness Broch Centre, a unique attraction that unveils the mysteries of Scotland's historic broch structures.
Midhowe Tomb & Chambered Cairn
35.9 km
Explore the ancient mysteries of Midhowe Tomb & Chambered Cairn in the Orkney Islands, a remarkable historical landmark reflecting Neolithic heritage.
Quern of Whisber
36.0 km
Explore the Quern of Whisber: An ancient Orkney site showcasing traditional milling techniques amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Midhowe Broch
36.0 km
Discover the ancient Midhowe Broch in Orkney, a well-preserved Iron Age structure offering insights into Scotland's prehistoric past amidst stunning coastal views.
Nybster Broch
36.5 km
Discover the enchanting Nybster Broch, an ancient Iron Age site in Scotland offering a unique glimpse into Pictish history amidst stunning coastal vistas.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rackwick Beach
3.3 km
Remote and scenic Rackwick Beach on Hoy offers dramatic cliffs, rich wildlife, and access to Orkney’s iconic Old Man of Hoy sea stack.
Dwarfie Stane
3.3 km
Explore the only Neolithic rock-cut tomb in Orkney, where ancient craftsmanship meets legend in a remote, atmospheric valley on Hoy.
Cra'as Nest
4.6 km
Discover the authentic 18th-century Orcadian croft life at Cra'as Nest Museum, perched above scenic Rackwick Bay on Hoy Island.
RSPB Scotland Hoy nature reserve
4.9 km
Explore rugged cliffs, vibrant seabird colonies, and wild moorland at RSPB Scotland Hoy Nature Reserve, a sanctuary of natural beauty and wildlife.
Old Man of Hoy
6.1 km
Soaring 450 feet above the Atlantic, the Old Man of Hoy is a breathtaking sea stack and iconic Orkney landmark beloved by climbers and nature enthusiasts.
Scapa Flow Museum
7.8 km
Explore Orkney’s naval heritage at Scapa Flow Museum, where history and interactive exhibits bring two World Wars to life in the heart of Hoy.
Sunken Fleet
8.1 km
A haunting cluster of wartime wrecks resting in the clear waters off Stromness, offering divers a powerful encounter with Orkney’s naval past.
Hoy High Lighthouse
9.5 km
Explore Hoy High Lighthouse, a historic gem in Orkney, where maritime history meets stunning coastal views and natural beauty.
Ness Battery
10.9 km
Explore Ness Battery, a preserved World War coastal defense site in Stromness, revealing Orkney’s vital naval history and wartime stories.
Stromness Museum
11.5 km
Explore Orkney’s maritime past and natural wonders at Stromness Museum, a captivating cultural gem on the waterfront.
Hackness Martello Tower and Battery
11.6 km
Explore Orkney’s historic Napoleonic coastal defences at Hackness Martello Tower and Battery, a rare and well-preserved military site overlooking Scapa Flow.
Pier Arts Centre
12.1 km
Discover a nationally significant collection of 20th century British art in Stromness’s award-winning Pier Arts Centre with free admission and inspiring exhibitions.
Statue of Dr John Rae, Artic Explorer
12.2 km
Discover the legacy of Orcadian Arctic explorer Dr John Rae at his commemorative statue in the historic harbor town of Stromness.
Orkneyinga Saga Centre
12.2 km
Explore Orkney’s Viking saga through immersive exhibits and historic ruins in the tranquil village of Orphir.
Earls Bu & Church : Orphir
12.2 km
Explore the unique 12th-century Norse estate with Scotland’s only medieval round church, steeped in Viking saga and history.
Essential places to dine
Emily’s
6.6 km
Charming and quirky café in Lyness offering homemade treats and warm hospitality near Stromness ferry terminal.
The Hamnavoe Restaurant
11.9 km
A cozy, historic Stromness restaurant serving innovative seasonal dishes blending Orkney seafood with European and Asian flavors.
Ferry Inn Stromness
12.2 km
A cozy, historic inn on Stromness harbour offering hearty local cuisine and warm hospitality just steps from the ferry terminal.
Julia's Cafe Bistro
12.3 km
Cozy cafe in Stromness offering freshly made rolls with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Adam's Place
12.3 km
Fresh local seafood and an acclaimed wine list await you at Adam's Place, a cozy culinary highlight on Stromness’s waterfront.
Leigh's Real Taste of Orkney
20.7 km
Discover Orkney’s finest takeaway flavors at Leigh's, where local produce meets generous portions and friendly service in Finstown.
The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant
21.3 km
Historic charm meets fresh seafood in Orkney’s welcoming Murray Arms Hotel, a cozy coastal retreat in St Margaret's Hope.
The Foveran
21.4 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
The Skerries Restaurant
22.8 km
Experience exquisite local seafood with breathtaking views at The Skerries Restaurant by Loch of Harray in Orkney’s tranquil natural setting.
The Sands Hotel, Orkney
23.7 km
A welcoming coastal retreat on Burray Island with stunning sea views, excellent dining, and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney.
Sakura Kitchen
24.9 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
Happy Haddock
25.0 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
25.1 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
The Orkney Hotel
25.1 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Lucano
25.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Wild Heather Crafts
6.7 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and handmade treasures at Wild Heather Crafts, a cozy artisan shop in Stromness.
Vintage Paper Co
11.7 km
Discover handmade papers, artisanal bookbinding, and unique stationery in the heart of Stromness at Vintage Paper Co.
Cream
11.9 km
Explore Cream in Stromness for unique gifts, local art, and a taste of Orkney's creativity.
Waterfront Gallery
11.9 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and local artistry at Waterfront Gallery, a cultural gem in the heart of Stromness.
Heksmoar
17.7 km
A charming craft shop in Stromness showcasing handcrafted Orcadian textiles, ceramics, jewellery and art in a warm, welcoming space.
Workshop & Loft Gallery
21.3 km
Discover authentic Orcadian knitwear, crafts, and art in the welcoming Workshop & Loft Gallery of St Margaret's Hope.
Celina Rupp Jewellery
24.7 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery and café where island stories become wearable art.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
24.7 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Orkney Tweed
25.1 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Blue Joe's
25.2 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and unique souvenirs at Blue Joe's, Kirkwall’s charming gift shop full of local treasures and stories.
Judith Glue
25.2 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
25.3 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Aurora Jewellery
25.3 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
25.3 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
25.4 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
21.5 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 Mey Hotel
24.9 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
The West End Guest House
25.0 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
25.1 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.
Auld Motor Hoose
25.3 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
25.3 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Oot The Back
25.4 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
The Neuk
25.4 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Highland Park Bar
25.5 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
25.5 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
25.5 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
26.1 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Grove Lounge
31.0 km
A cozy and lively bar in Thurso offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Top Joe's
31.1 km
A welcoming and lively pub in Thurso serving great Guinness, live sports, and a friendly Highland atmosphere.
Mr C's Bar
31.1 km
Lively cocktail bar in Thurso crafting fresh drinks with hand-selected spirits in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Orkney Club
25.5 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
31.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
47.8 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
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- 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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
