Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre
Explore Orkney’s ancient fossils, wartime history, and island heritage at this engaging centre on Burray.
Situated on the island of Burray in Orkney, the Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre offers a fascinating journey through 300 million years of geological history alongside rich local heritage. Visitors can explore an extensive fossil collection, learn about the strategic naval history of Scapa Flow, and immerse themselves in Orkney island life from a century ago. The centre also features a heritage-themed tearoom and a gift shop, making it a well-rounded cultural stop.
A brief summary to Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre
- Viewforth, Burray, KW17 2SY, GB
- +441856731255
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Tuesday to Sunday between 10am and 5pm; the centre is closed on Mondays.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the fossil exhibits, Scapa Flow displays, and heritage sections.
- Check ahead if you want to enjoy the heritage-themed tearoom, as its opening hours can vary.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique fossils and scenic island surroundings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Car
Driving from Kirkwall, the main town of Orkney, takes approximately 20 minutes to reach Burray and the centre. Parking is available onsite free of charge. The route is straightforward but note that some roads on the islands are narrow.
-
Bus
Local bus services connect Kirkwall to Burray several times a day, with a journey time of around 40 to 50 minutes. Bus frequency is limited, so check the current timetable in advance. The stop is a short walk from the centre.
-
Bicycle
For a scenic and active approach, cycling from Kirkwall to Burray takes about 1 to 1.5 hours over mostly flat terrain. Roads can be quiet but share with occasional vehicles, so use caution and appropriate gear.
Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Windy Conditions
Discover more about Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre
Unearthing Orkney’s Ancient Past
The Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre is a treasure trove for anyone intrigued by natural history. Its extensive fossil collection showcases specimens dating back some 300 million years, providing a vivid glimpse into the prehistoric life that once roamed this northern archipelago. Among the highlights are fossilised remains of ancient beasts and rocks that intriguingly glow in the dark, offering a tactile and visual experience that brings deep time to life.Scapa Flow: A Naval Legacy
Beyond fossils, the centre delves into Orkney’s pivotal role during the World Wars with a dedicated Scapa Flow exhibition. This naval anchorage was a critical strategic base, and the displays shed light on wartime events, including the construction of the Churchill Barriers — impressive causeways that still connect the islands today. This section enriches visitors’ understanding of Orkney’s maritime and military heritage.A Window into Island Life
The heritage section invites visitors to step back roughly 100 years, exploring domestic objects and stories that depict everyday life on Orkney’s islands. This area captures the cultural fabric and resilience of island communities, providing context to the natural history and wartime narratives. The heritage-themed tearoom complements the experience with Orkney home baking and hearty lunches, although the café’s opening can vary seasonally.Engaging and Accessible Experience
The centre is designed to be welcoming and educational for visitors of all ages, including families and fossil enthusiasts. Exhibits are well explained and thoughtfully curated, with staff known for their friendliness and knowledge. The ground floor is fully accessible, while some heritage displays are located upstairs. The gift shop offers quality local products, perfect for souvenirs.Setting and Atmosphere
Located in the peaceful village of Viewforth on Burray, the centre’s exterior may seem modest, but inside it reveals a rich and engaging world. The surrounding landscape of Orkney’s islands adds a tranquil backdrop to the visit, enhancing the sense of connection to both nature and history. The centre’s location makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the Orkney archipelago.Visitor Practicalities
Open daily from 10am to 5pm except Mondays, the Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre offers reasonably priced admission with concessions available. Visitors typically spend 1–2 hours exploring, though enthusiasts may linger longer. While the café is community-run and may not always be open, the centre maintains a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Churchill Barriers
4.0 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
4.3 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
The Cannon
24.9 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
John O'Groats Signpost
25.5 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Above and Beyond Tours
36.5 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Old Keiss Castle
37.3 km
Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.
Whitegate broch
37.8 km
An atmospheric Iron Age broch perched on a Caithness headland, offering dramatic sea views and a powerful sense of Scotland’s ancient past.
Birsay Earl's Palace
38.1 km
Explore the stunning Birsay Earl's Palace, a historical landmark in the Orkney Islands showcasing Scotland's architectural grandeur and rich history.
Longaglebe Geo
38.2 km
Discover the stunning cliffs and rich geological history of Longaglebe Geo, a hidden gem in Orkney's breathtaking coastline.
Brough of Birsay
39.3 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning landscapes of Brough of Birsay, a premier historical landmark and tourist attraction in Orkney.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
39.6 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
39.8 km
Discover the captivating history and culture of Castletown at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, a unique museum in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Reiss Sands
43.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Reiss Sands, a pristine public beach near Wick, perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst Scotland's stunning coastline.
Harold’s Tower
43.9 km
Discover the charm and history of Harold's Tower in Thurso, a stunning heritage site offering breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.
Ackergill Tower
44.1 km
Experience the historic charm and stunning beauty of Ackergill Tower, a magnificent castle in the heart of Caithness, Scotland, perfect for your next getaway.
Unmissable attractions to see
Burn of Sutherland
1.0 km
Discover the peaceful Burn of Sutherland, a pristine Highland stream nestled in Orkney’s wild and historic landscape.
Viking Totem pole
1.7 km
A striking Viking-themed carved wooden pole on Burray’s beach, celebrating Orkney’s Norse heritage through local artistry.
Causeway
2.7 km
Historic WWII causeway built by Italian POWs, linking Orkney islands with stunning coastal views and rich heritage.
Italian Chapel
3.7 km
A stunning WWII chapel on Lamb Holm, crafted by Italian POWs, symbolizing faith, artistry, and resilience amid adversity.
Roseness Walk
5.8 km
Experience Orkney’s rugged coastal beauty and tranquil wildlife on the easy, scenic Roseness Walk near Cornquoy.
Olav's Wood
10.5 km
A magical mixed woodland sanctuary in Orkney, blending rare trees, wildlife, and tranquil streams in a unique northern landscape.
Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café
11.4 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery in a restored church, where ancient enamelling techniques meet contemporary design.
Scapa Beach
12.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history of Scapa Beach, a scenic coastal gem near Kirkwall in Orkney.
Highland Park Whisky Distillery
12.5 km
Explore the northernmost Scotch whisky distillery, blending Viking heritage and Orkney’s unique peat smoke into world-renowned single malts.
Waulkmill Bay
13.1 km
Discover Waulkmill Bay, Orkney’s peaceful golden beach with stunning Scapa Flow views and a hidden coastal charm perfect for picnics and nature lovers.
Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces
14.0 km
Explore Kirkwall’s medieval and Renaissance palaces where Norse kings and notorious earls shaped Orkney’s history.
St Magnus Cathedral
14.0 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest cathedral, a stunning medieval masterpiece and spiritual heart of Orkney, rich with Norse history and vibrant cultural life.
The Tankerness House
14.0 km
Explore Orkney’s rich history in the stunning 16th-century Tankerness House, home to the internationally significant Orkney Museum.
The Orkney Museum
14.0 km
Discover Orkney’s story from ancient times to today in the historic Tankerness House, home to nationally significant archaeology and vibrant cultural exhibits.
Badly Drawn Cat
14.2 km
A cozy vegan café and art gallery in Kirkwall blending plant-based delights with local creativity and friendly charm.
Essential places to dine
The Sands Hotel, Orkney
1.6 km
A welcoming coastal retreat on Burray Island with stunning sea views, excellent dining, and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney.
The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant
4.6 km
Historic charm meets fresh seafood in Orkney’s welcoming Murray Arms Hotel, a cozy coastal retreat in St Margaret's Hope.
The Foveran
12.2 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Sakura Kitchen
13.5 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
Skerries Bistro
13.8 km
Experience fresh, locally sourced seafood with breathtaking Pentland Firth views at Skerries Bistro, South Ronaldsay’s coastal dining jewel.
Happy Haddock
13.9 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
The Orkney Hotel
13.9 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Lucano
13.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
14.0 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms
14.2 km
A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms.
Trenabies Cafe Bistro
14.2 km
Cozy cafe and bistro in Kirkwall offering hearty local dishes, great coffee, and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Twenty One
14.2 km
A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Pomona Cafe
14.2 km
A cozy, traditional Kirkwall cafe serving hearty breakfasts and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney’s capital.
Busters Diner
14.3 km
A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
Bothy Bar
14.3 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Celina Rupp Jewellery
4.3 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery and café where island stories become wearable art.
Workshop & Loft Gallery
4.5 km
Discover authentic Orcadian knitwear, crafts, and art in the welcoming Workshop & Loft Gallery of St Margaret's Hope.
Deerness Stores
12.2 km
Explore the charming Deerness Stores in Orkney for local goods and delightful snacks, embodying the spirit of island life.
The Original Orkney Hamper Company
13.8 km
Discover authentic Orkney flavors and handcrafted gifts in charming hampers from Kirkwall’s beloved local shop.
Orkney Tweed
13.9 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Blue Joe's
14.0 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
14.0 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
14.1 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Aurora Jewellery
14.1 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
14.1 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
14.2 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
14.2 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Kairds
14.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Poundstretcher
14.2 km
Discover unbeatable value and variety at Poundstretcher Kirkwall, your go-to discount store in the heart of Orkney’s town center.
The Orcadian Bookshop
14.2 km
Discover Orkney’s stories and culture at The Orcadian Bookshop, Kirkwall’s independent literary gem in the historic city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
4.5 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 West End Guest House
13.7 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
13.9 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
14.2 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
14.3 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Oot The Back
14.4 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Torvhaug
14.4 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Skippers
14.4 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Highland Park Bar
14.4 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.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
14.4 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
The Mey Hotel
30.8 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
The Taversoe
31.1 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
36.5 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Village Inn
38.0 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
The Belsair
45.2 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Orkney Club
14.4 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
45.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
47.3 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- 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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly