Pier Arts Centre: A Treasure of 20th Century British Art in Stromness
Discover a nationally significant collection of 20th century British art in Stromness’s award-winning Pier Arts Centre with free admission and inspiring exhibitions.
The Pier Arts Centre in Stromness, Orkney, is a distinguished art gallery and museum housing a nationally significant collection of 20th century British and contemporary art. Founded in 1979 to preserve the collection of philanthropist Margaret Gardiner, it features works by Barbara Hepworth, Ben Nicholson, and local artists. The centre offers free admission, a dynamic exhibition program, and a blend of historic and award-winning modern architecture overlooking Stromness harbour.
A brief summary to Pier Arts Centre
- 28-36 Victoria St, Stromness, KW16 3AA, GB
- +441856850209
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit between Tuesday and Saturday, 10:30am to 5pm, for full access to exhibitions and facilities.
- Admission is free, but consider donating to support the Centre’s ongoing programs and maintenance.
- Explore both the permanent collection and the rotating exhibitions to appreciate a wide range of modern and contemporary art.
- Take time to enjoy the views of Stromness harbour from the modern gallery extension.
- Use the Centre’s library and archive resources if you have an interest in art research or local history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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Public Bus
Regular bus services connect Kirkwall to Stromness with a journey time of approximately 45 minutes. Buses run several times daily but check schedules seasonally. A single adult fare costs around £5.00 GBP. The bus stop is a short walk from the Pier Arts Centre.
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Car
Driving from Kirkwall to Stromness takes about 30 minutes via the A965 road. Parking is available near the Centre but can be limited during peak times. No parking fees apply. The route offers scenic views along the coast.
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Taxi
Taxi services from Kirkwall to Stromness take approximately 30 minutes. Fares typically range from £30 to £40 GBP. Taxis provide a flexible option but should be booked in advance during busy periods.
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Walking
For adventurous visitors staying in Stromness, the Pier Arts Centre is accessible on foot with flat terrain and well-maintained pavements. Walking times vary depending on your starting point but generally take 10–20 minutes from central Stromness accommodations.
Pier Arts Centre 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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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Pier Arts Centre
A Legacy of Artistic Philanthropy and Vision
The Pier Arts Centre was established in 1979 to house the remarkable collection of British fine art donated by Margaret Gardiner, an author, peace activist, and philanthropist. Gardiner’s vision was to create a dedicated space in Orkney for the public to engage with modern British art. The collection reflects key developments in 20th century art, featuring seminal works by influential artists such as Barbara Hepworth, Ben Nicholson, Alfred Wallis, and Naum Gabo. This legacy endows the Centre with cultural significance extending well beyond Orkney, marking it as a Recognised Collection of National Significance to Scotland.Artistic Highlights and Contemporary Connections
The permanent collection is celebrated for its breadth and quality, encompassing modernist sculptures, paintings, and works by local Orkney artists like Sylvia Wishart and Stanley Cursiter. The Centre also embraces contemporary art, showcasing pieces by Sean Scully, Eva Rothschild, and Olafur Eliasson. This blend of historic and current art practices creates a dynamic dialogue within the galleries. The Pier Arts Centre is a partner of Tate and participates in the Plus Tate network, facilitating exchanges of exhibitions, ideas, and skills with major UK visual arts institutions.Architectural Harmony of Past and Present
Housed in a complex of historic buildings in Stromness, the Centre underwent a major redevelopment completed in 2007. This project included the addition of a striking modern gallery building on one of Stromness’s iconic piers, which won the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland’s Andrew Doolan Award for Best Building in Scotland. The architecture harmoniously blends the town’s maritime heritage with contemporary design, offering visitors inspiring views over Stromness harbour and a unique spatial experience.Engaging Exhibitions and Community Involvement
Beyond its permanent collection, the Pier Arts Centre curates a year-round programme of temporary exhibitions featuring local, national, and international artists. These exhibitions are complemented by educational and outreach initiatives designed for all ages, fostering community engagement and art appreciation. The Centre also maintains a valuable public library and archive, supporting research and learning.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30am to 5pm, with free admission, the Pier Arts Centre welcomes a diverse audience including families, art enthusiasts, and scholars. Facilities include level access, a hearing loop, baby changing, and a gift shop. The Centre’s location in Stromness makes it a cultural focal point within Orkney, easily accessible and offering a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere for visitors.Art in Context: Stromness and Orkney’s Cultural Landscape
Situated in the historic town of Stromness, the Pier Arts Centre benefits from its maritime surroundings and the rich cultural heritage of Orkney. The town’s piers and waterfront provide a scenic backdrop that complements the artistic experience. The Centre acts as a hub for local artists and contributes significantly to Orkney’s reputation as a destination for cultural tourism and creative expression.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Cannon
0.7 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
24.2 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
24.3 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
John O'Groats Signpost
37.8 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
37.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
40.9 km
Discover the captivating history and culture of Castletown at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, a unique museum in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
41.2 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Harold’s Tower
41.6 km
Discover the charm and history of Harold's Tower in Thurso, a stunning heritage site offering breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.
Caithness Agricultural Society
42.6 km
Experience the rich agricultural heritage of Caithness at the Caithness Agricultural Society, a vibrant hub for farming enthusiasts and tourists.
Old St Peter’s Church, Thurso
42.6 km
Discover the architectural splendor and rich history of Old St Peter’s Church, a must-visit historical landmark in Thurso, Scotland.
North Coast Visitor Centre
42.8 km
Discover the North Coast Visitor Centre in Thurso, a museum and café that showcases Scotland's stunning northern coastline and rich cultural heritage.
Westray Heritage Trust
43.1 km
Explore Westray Heritage Trust, where history comes alive in the beautiful Orkney Islands, showcasing the island's rich culture and traditions.
Noltland Castle
43.2 km
Explore the historical wonders of Noltland Castle in Orkney, where stunning architecture meets breathtaking landscapes.
Things Va
44.4 km
Uncover the secrets of Scotland's ancient heritage at Thurso Broch, a remarkable historical site that whispers tales of the past.
Bucholie Castle
45.1 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views of Bucholie Castle, an enchanting historical landmark in Nybster, near Wick, Scotland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Statue of Dr John Rae, Artic Explorer
0.1 km
Discover the legacy of Orcadian Arctic explorer Dr John Rae at his commemorative statue in the historic harbor town of Stromness.
Stromness Harbour
0.4 km
Historic Stromness Harbour: a sheltered maritime gateway blending rich heritage with vibrant coastal charm in Orkney.
Stromness Museum
0.6 km
Explore Orkney’s maritime past and natural wonders at Stromness Museum, a captivating cultural gem on the waterfront.
Ness Battery
1.3 km
Explore Ness Battery, a preserved World War coastal defense site in Stromness, revealing Orkney’s vital naval history and wartime stories.
Hoy High Lighthouse
3.4 km
Explore Hoy High Lighthouse, a historic gem in Orkney, where maritime history meets stunning coastal views and natural beauty.
Unstan Chambered Cairn
3.8 km
Explore a unique 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial cairn blending ancient architectural styles and famed for its distinctive pottery in Orkney.
Maeshowe Visitor Centre
5.8 km
Discover the ancient mysteries of Maeshowe, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb famed for its winter solstice alignment and Viking runes in Orkney.
Ring of Brodgar
5.8 km
Explore the majestic Neolithic Ring of Brodgar, a vast stone circle and henge steeped in mystery and ancient ritual on Orkney’s Mainland.
RSPB Scotland Brodgar Nature Reserve
6.0 km
A peaceful wildlife sanctuary set within Orkney’s ancient Neolithic landscape, blending natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.
Ness of Brodgar
6.1 km
Explore the monumental Neolithic heart of Orkney, where ancient ceremonial grandeur and intricate artistry reveal 5,000 years of history.
Standing Stones of Stenness
6.2 km
Explore the ancient Standing Stones of Stenness, a mystical Neolithic henge and one of the oldest stone circles in the British Isles, set amidst Orkney’s stunning landscapes.
Barnhouse Settlement
6.4 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic Barnhouse Settlement, a unique village near the Stones of Stenness revealing 5,000-year-old social and ritual life in Orkney.
Orkney Attractions
6.9 km
Immerse yourself in Orkney’s rich oral heritage through storytelling, guided walks, and cultural workshops at this unique visitor centre.
Orkney FolkLore and Storytelling Centre (Via House)
6.9 km
Experience Orkney’s rich maritime legends and island folklore around the peat fire in a unique cultural storytelling centre near Stromness.
Yesnaby Coastal Walk
6.9 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and ancient fossil-rich sandstone of Yesnaby Coastal Walk near Stromness, a dramatic and scenic Orkney hiking experience.
Essential places to dine
Ferry Inn Stromness
0.1 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
0.2 km
Cozy cafe in Stromness offering freshly made rolls with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Adam's Place
0.2 km
Fresh local seafood and an acclaimed wine list await you at Adam's Place, a cozy culinary highlight on Stromness’s waterfront.
The Hamnavoe Restaurant
0.2 km
A cozy, historic Stromness restaurant serving innovative seasonal dishes blending Orkney seafood with European and Asian flavors.
The Skerries Restaurant
10.8 km
Experience exquisite local seafood with breathtaking views at The Skerries Restaurant by Loch of Harray in Orkney’s tranquil natural setting.
Leigh's Real Taste of Orkney
11.6 km
Discover Orkney’s finest takeaway flavors at Leigh's, where local produce meets generous portions and friendly service in Finstown.
Emily’s
14.3 km
Charming and quirky café in Lyness offering homemade treats and warm hospitality near Stromness ferry terminal.
The Foveran
16.7 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Happy Haddock
19.3 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
19.3 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Lucano
19.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
The Orkney Hotel
19.4 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Sakura Kitchen
19.4 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
Busters Diner
19.5 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
19.5 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Waterfront Gallery
0.2 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and local artistry at Waterfront Gallery, a cultural gem in the heart of Stromness.
Cream
0.2 km
Explore Cream in Stromness for unique gifts, local art, and a taste of Orkney's creativity.
Vintage Paper Co
0.4 km
Discover handmade papers, artisanal bookbinding, and unique stationery in the heart of Stromness at Vintage Paper Co.
Heksmoar
9.3 km
A charming craft shop in Stromness showcasing handcrafted Orcadian textiles, ceramics, jewellery and art in a warm, welcoming space.
Wild Heather Crafts
14.4 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and handmade treasures at Wild Heather Crafts, a cozy artisan shop in Stromness.
Orkney Antique Centre
17.2 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through a captivating collection of antiques in the historic former community centre of Birsay.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
18.9 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Orkney Tweed
19.4 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Blue Joe's
19.4 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
19.5 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
19.5 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Aurora Jewellery
19.5 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
19.5 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
19.6 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Kairds
19.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The West End Guest House
19.4 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
19.4 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
19.4 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
19.4 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Oot The Back
19.4 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
The Neuk
19.5 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Highland Park Bar
19.6 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
19.6 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
19.6 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
The Taversoe
23.7 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
24.9 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
36.5 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
38.2 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
41.7 km
Experience delightful flavors and breathtaking views at Peerie Cafe, your cozy retreat by the Thurso harbor.
The Grove Lounge
42.9 km
A cozy and lively bar in Thurso offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Orkney Club
19.6 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
43.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
59.1 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
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
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
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly