Orkney Folklore and Storytelling Centre

A Living Tradition of Orkney's Oral Heritage

The Orkney Folklore and Storytelling Centre is a vibrant cultural hub nestled in Via House, Sandwick, just outside Stromness. It celebrates the rich oral traditions of the Orkney Islands, focusing on the stories and legends passed down through generations of local fishing and farming communities. The centre serves as a gathering place where tales of the sea, land, and island life are shared through storytelling sessions, workshops, and heritage events, keeping alive the unique cultural identity of Orkney.

Engaging Storytelling and Community Events

Visitors can attend regularly scheduled storytelling evenings known as Peatfire Tales, held on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, where traditional legends, folklore, and social customs are narrated around a peat fire. The centre also offers family and children’s story circles, fireside afternoons, and bespoke private group events. These sessions combine music, song, and dance, creating an immersive experience that connects audiences with Orkney’s past and present.

Guided Heritage Walks and Educational Workshops

Beyond indoor storytelling, the centre organizes Stromness Heritage Tales guided walks, led by qualified local guides. These walks explore the town’s maritime history, hidden closes, and seafaring characters from the last 400 years, offering a tangible connection to Orkney’s heritage. Workshops on folklore, storytelling techniques, and social customs provide hands-on opportunities to learn about the power of oral tradition and its role in community life.

A Resource for Local Culture and Literature

The centre houses the Heritage Library and the Hamnavoe Room, which contain collections of Orkney books, maps, photographs, and contemporary writings by local authors. Visitors can browse these resources to deepen their understanding of the islands’ history and cultural evolution. The Garden of Legend & Lore adjacent to the centre offers a tranquil outdoor space that complements the storytelling experience.

Location and Visitor Information

Situated on Via House, A967 in Sandwick, the centre is accessible from Stromness and lies within reach of other Orkney attractions including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. The venue is open year-round with scheduled events mostly in the evenings and afternoons. Booking is essential for most activities to ensure availability and personalized experiences.

Preserving Orkney’s Intangible Heritage

The Orkney Folklore and Storytelling Centre plays a vital role in safeguarding the intangible cultural heritage of the islands. By fostering community engagement and educating visitors, it ensures that the oral traditions, myths, and social customs continue to inspire and inform future generations. This centre is not just a visitor attraction but a living archive of Orkney’s soul.