Sheila Fleet Jewellery Workshop & Kirk Gallery

Handcrafted Orkney jewellery in a restored church, where ancient enamelling techniques meet contemporary design.

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Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café

Sheila Fleet Jewellery is a renowned designer-maker studio and gallery housed in a beautifully restored former parish church in Tankerness, Orkney. Founded by OBE-recipient Sheila Fleet in 1993, the workshop-by-the-sea showcases exquisite handcrafted jewellery in silver, gold, and platinum, featuring distinctive vibrant enamels inspired by Orkney's dramatic landscapes. Visitors can tour the working studio, browse the gallery, and enjoy café fare in this creative hub on Scotland's northern islands.

A brief summary to Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café

Sheila Fleet Jewellery, The Workshop, Orkney, Tankerness, KW17 2QT, GB
+441856861758
Visit website
Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Mixed
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 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

Book a table at the Kirk Café in advance, especially during peak season, as it fills quickly. The café offers excellent Orcadian dishes and homemade cakes in a uniquely atmospheric setting.
Take advantage of the free workshop tour to watch jewellery makers and enamellers at work. This behind-the-scenes experience reveals the craftsmanship and labour-intensive techniques that define each piece.
All jewellery is made-to-order, so alterations and bespoke commissions are possible. Discuss custom options with the retail team, including sizing and personalisation.
Explore the smaller gift section featuring work by other Orkney artisans. The gallery also stocks pieces under £100, making it accessible for those seeking entry-level designer jewellery.
Visit during quieter weekday mornings to enjoy a more intimate browsing experience and easier access to staff for detailed conversations about designs and techniques.

Getting There

Car from Kirkwall

From Kirkwall town centre, take the A960 eastbound towards Deerness. After passing Kirkwall Airport, turn left into Tankerness and follow brown Creative Trail signs to the Kirk Gallery & Café. The journey takes approximately 10–12 minutes and covers roughly 8 kilometres. Ample car parking is available on-site. The route is straightforward and suitable for all vehicles.
Taxi or ride-share from Kirkwall

Taxis and ride-share services operate from Kirkwall town centre. The journey to Tankerness takes 10–15 minutes depending on traffic and exact pickup location. Expect to pay approximately £12–18 for a single journey. Pre-booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.
Bus from Kirkwall

Local bus services connect Kirkwall to Tankerness, with services running several times daily. Journey time is approximately 15–20 minutes depending on route and stops. Fares are modest (typically £2–4 per journey). Check current timetables with Orkney Islands Council transport services, as schedules vary seasonally.
Walking from Tankerness village

If staying in Tankerness village, the Kirk Gallery is accessible on foot via local roads, though the terrain is hilly and the walk takes 20–30 minutes depending on starting point. The route follows country lanes without dedicated pedestrian paths, so visibility and weather conditions should be considered. Not recommended in poor visibility or heavy rain.

Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café location weather suitability

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Discover more about Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café

A Designer's Vision Rooted in Orkney

Sheila Fleet's jewellery empire began modestly in 1993 when she converted a shed in her garden into a working studio. Inspired by her childhood on an Orcadian farm and her formal training at Edinburgh College of Art, Sheila developed a distinctive design language that captures the essence of her island home—the rugged coastlines, ancient monuments, and ever-changing light. Today, she stands as one of Scotland's most celebrated designer-makers, holding an OBE and honorary doctorates from both UHI Orkney and the University of Edinburgh. Every piece bearing her name reflects her personal vision, as Sheila designs each collection by hand before her master pattern maker, Olivia, transforms sketches into three-dimensional reality.

The Workshop-by-the-Sea: Craft in Motion

Situated close to Mill Sand beach in Tankerness, the state-of-the-art workshop has evolved dramatically since those early days. Built in 1995 and subsequently extended, it now houses a skilled team of enamellers, jewellery makers, and craftspeople who bring Sheila's designs to life using time-honoured techniques. The lost-wax casting process forms the foundation of production: wax replicas are created from master patterns, assembled into wax trees, encased in plaster, and fired in kilns where the wax melts away, leaving a cavity for molten metal. Visitors can observe this mesmerising process firsthand during complimentary workshop tours, watching artisans hammer, polish, and refine pieces with meticulous attention to detail.

The Ancient Art of Enamelling

Colour is the soul of Sheila Fleet's aesthetic. Drawing on techniques perfected by ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Celts, the workshop's enamellers apply finely ground glass granules by hand using quills, creating a vitreous enamel that vibrates with life. Each piece is individually fired in kilns for one to three minutes, depending on size and colour, resulting in jewellery that glows with warmth and personality. This labour-intensive process, combined with hand-assembly quality control, ensures that every item meets exacting standards before dispatch.

The Kirk Gallery: Sacred Space Reimagined

The Kirk Gallery & Café occupies a beautifully restored former parish church, a transformation that honours both history and creativity. Stepping through the original church entrance, visitors encounter a seamless blend of traditional Orkney stonework and contemporary design. Original brass lamps now illuminate display cabinets of silver and gold; the historic pulpit overlooks the jewellery collections; and a carving of the Birsay Disc—Sheila's first design from 1993—is embedded in the wooden ceiling. This architectural sensitivity extends to the Kirk Café, where Orcadian dishes and homemade cakes offer respite amid the visual feast of jewellery.

Collections Inspired by Island Heritage

Sheila's designs draw deeply from Orkney's rich cultural landscape. The Runic Collection, for instance, takes inspiration from inscriptions found inside Maeshowe, a chambered cairn built around 2800 BC. Fiddle pendants celebrate Orkney's musical traditions, while wave-inspired pieces echo the surrounding seascapes. Each collection begins as a hand-drawn sketch and evolves through collaboration between designer and maker, resulting in jewellery that tells stories of place, history, and craftsmanship. All pieces are made-to-order, allowing for personalisation and alterations that transform a purchase into a bespoke treasure.

A Global Craft Enterprise with Local Roots

While Sheila Fleet Jewellery is collected worldwide and stocked in galleries across the UK and Europe, the heart of the operation remains rooted in Tankerness. The family-run business, now led by Sheila alongside her son Martin and his wife Mairi, maintains its commitment to hand-finishing every piece. The workshop is one of only two jewellers authorised to work with Scottish Gold from Cononish, Scotland's sole commercial gold mine, adding another layer of authenticity to collections that celebrate Scottish heritage and craftsmanship.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole

7.2 km

A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.

Churchill Barriers

7.5 km

Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.

The Cannon

25.8 km

Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.

John O'Groats Signpost

36.9 km

Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.

Quoygrew settlement

43.2 km

Explore the ancient Quoygrew Settlement on Westray Island, a fascinating glimpse into Orkney's rich history and stunning natural beauty.

Dunnet Head Lighthouse

43.8 km

Experience the stunning beauty and rich heritage of Dunnet Head Lighthouse, Scotland's northernmost landmark with breathtaking coastal views.

Knap of Howar

43.9 km

Explore Knap of Howar, a Neolithic gem in Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and breathtaking coastal landscapes.

Bucholie Castle

44.0 km

Discover the rich history and stunning views of Bucholie Castle, an enchanting historical landmark in Nybster, near Wick, Scotland.

Caithness Broch Centre

46.5 km

Explore the ancient Iron Age at the Caithness Broch Centre, a unique attraction that unveils the mysteries of Scotland's historic broch structures.

Nybster Broch

46.9 km

Discover the enchanting Nybster Broch, an ancient Iron Age site in Scotland offering a unique glimpse into Pictish history amidst stunning coastal vistas.

Above and Beyond Tours

47.0 km

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.

Mary Ann's Cottage

47.1 km

Explore the fascinating history of Caithness at Mary Ann's Cottage, a charming museum showcasing 19th-century life and culture.

Old Keiss Castle

48.8 km

Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.

Whitegate broch

49.3 km

An atmospheric Iron Age broch perched on a Caithness headland, offering dramatic sea views and a powerful sense of Scotland’s ancient past.

Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))

50.1 km

Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.

Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))

Historic WWII causeway built by Italian POWs, linking Orkney islands with stunning coastal views and rich heritage.

A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.

Discover authentic Orkney crafts and local treasures in Kirkwall’s welcoming souvenir shop, celebrating island heritage and artistry.

MadeitOrkney

7.0 km

Discover authentic Orcadian crafts and handmade treasures in the tranquil setting of Deerness, Orkney Mainland’s artisan hub.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The West End Guest House

6.8 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

6.9 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.

Torvhaug

6.9 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

6.9 km

Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.

Highland Park Bar

6.9 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.

The Neuk

7.0 km

A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.

Auld Motor Hoose

7.0 km

A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

Oot The Back

7.1 km

Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.

Ayre Hotel & Apartments

7.1 km

Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.

Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar

15.7 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 Taversoe

22.1 km

A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The Belsair

33.8 km

A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.

The Mey Hotel

41.7 km

Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.

Dunnet Bay Escapes

47.0 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

49.4 km

A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

The Orkney Club

7.0 km

A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.

Skinandi's Nightclub

55.9 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.

The Waterfront

58.7 km

Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.

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Sheila Fleet Jewellery Workshop & Kirk Gallery

A brief summary to Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Car from Kirkwall

Taxi or ride-share from Kirkwall

Bus from Kirkwall

Walking from Tankerness village

Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café

A Designer's Vision Rooted in Orkney

The Workshop-by-the-Sea: Craft in Motion

The Ancient Art of Enamelling

The Kirk Gallery: Sacred Space Reimagined

Collections Inspired by Island Heritage

A Global Craft Enterprise with Local Roots

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole

Churchill Barriers

The Cannon

John O'Groats Signpost

Quoygrew settlement

Dunnet Head Lighthouse

Knap of Howar

Bucholie Castle

Caithness Broch Centre

Nybster Broch

Above and Beyond Tours

Mary Ann's Cottage

Old Keiss Castle

Whitegate broch

Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))

Unmissable attractions to see

Highland Park Whisky Distillery

Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces

St Magnus Cathedral

Spirit of Orkney

Badly Drawn Cat

The Tankerness House

The Orkney Museum

Scapa Beach

Orkney Wireless Museum

The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre

Italian Chapel

Grain Earth House

Roseness Walk

The Gloup

Causeway

Essential places to dine

Sakura Kitchen

The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms

Pomona Cafe

The Orkney Hotel

Trenabies Cafe Bistro

Twenty One

Lucano

Dil Se Restaurant

The Shore

Happy Haddock

Bothy Bar

Helgi's

Empire Chinese Restaurant

Busters Diner

The Foveran

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Deerness Stores

The Original Orkney Hamper Company

The Orcadian Bookshop

Kairds

Logo Orkney

Poundstretcher

Blue Joe's

Orkney Tweed

Aurora Jewellery

Starlings