Skaill House: Orkney’s Finest 17th Century Mansion and Gateway to Ancient History
Explore Skaill House, Orkney’s finest 17th-century mansion, steeped in history and linked to the ancient Neolithic village of Skara Brae.
Skaill House is a remarkable 17th-century manor located in Sandwick, Orkney, overlooking the Bay of Skaill and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Skara Brae. Built originally in 1620 by Bishop George Graham, it has been home to twelve generations of the Graham family and stands as Orkney’s most complete historic mansion. The house offers rich insights into Orkney’s layered past, with period furnishings, family collections, and connections to the nearby Neolithic village discovered on its grounds.
A brief summary to Skaill House
- Stromness, Sandwick, KW16 3LR, GB
- +441856841501
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure entry, especially during peak season from April to October.
- Combine your visit with the nearby Skara Brae Neolithic site for a comprehensive historical experience.
- Allow between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours to fully appreciate the house, its collections, and gardens.
- Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside; check for any restrictions upon arrival.
- Children can enjoy the Viking hunt activity, making the visit engaging for families.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services run regularly between Stromness and Sandwick, with a stop near Skaill House. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Check seasonal schedules as frequency may reduce in winter. Tickets cost around £3-£5 GBP one way.
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Car
Driving from Stromness to Skaill House takes about 15 minutes via the A965 and local roads. Limited parking is available on site. Note that rural roads can be narrow and winding. No parking fees apply.
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Walking
For active travelers, a scenic 2-hour walk from Stromness to Skaill House follows coastal and country paths. Terrain is moderate with some uneven surfaces. Suitable for those with good mobility and sturdy footwear.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Stromness and Kirkwall, with a typical journey time of 15-25 minutes to Skaill House. Expect fares in the range of £15-£25 GBP depending on pickup location and time of day.
Skaill House 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 Skaill House
A Living Testament to Orkney’s History
Skaill House, situated in Sandwick parish on Mainland, Orkney, is a Grade A listed 17th-century mansion renowned as the most intact country house of its era in the region. Originally constructed in 1620 by Bishop George Graham, the estate has been continuously inhabited by his descendants, the Lairds of Breckness, for nearly four centuries. The house’s architecture reflects centuries of additions and renovations, blending early Scottish baronial style with Victorian influences, crow-stepped gables, and harled walls. Its location on a hillside affords sweeping views over the Bay of Skaill and the surrounding valley, linking it visually and historically to the landscape it has long overseen.Architectural and Artistic Heritage
The mansion’s structure forms a U-plan around a central courtyard, with two- and three-storey sections that reveal the evolution of architectural tastes and domestic needs over generations. Inside, visitors encounter richly decorated rooms featuring ornate plasterwork ceilings, grand fireplaces, and intricate wood panelling. The house contains an extensive collection of period furnishings, paintings—including works by Stanley Cursiter—and artefacts such as Captain Cook’s dinner service. The interior walls are adorned with historical portraits and family memorabilia, creating a deeply personal atmosphere that reflects the lives of the twelve Lairds who have maintained the estate.Connection to Skara Brae and Ancient Roots
Skaill House is uniquely intertwined with the discovery and preservation of Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic village in Western Europe, located just a short walk from the house. The 7th Laird of Breckness, William Graham Watt, unearthed Skara Brae in 1850 after a severe storm exposed the ancient settlement. The southern wing of Skaill House itself stands on a pre-Norse burial ground, adding to the estate’s profound connection to millennia of human history. Exhibits within the house detail these archaeological discoveries, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore the continuum from prehistoric times to the modern era in one location.Gardens, Grounds, and Contemporary Use
The estate’s grounds include restored gardens that historically provided both pleasure and sustenance, with ongoing efforts to revive their former glory. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful courtyard, which offers seating areas and a seafood shack, perfect for relaxing while soaking in views of the Bay of Skaill. Skaill House also provides self-catering accommodation in two spacious apartments within a private wing, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the estate’s ambiance. The house hosts cultural events such as storytelling evenings and music sessions, enriching the visitor experience with local traditions and heritage.Preservation and Public Access
After a period of dereliction in the late 20th century, Skaill House underwent extensive restoration and opened to the public in 1997. It is now managed with a commitment to preserving its historical integrity while welcoming visitors from April to October. Admission is offered as part of a joint ticket with Skara Brae, encouraging exploration of both the manor and the Neolithic site. The house remains privately owned, currently under the stewardship of Katie Waugh, and continues to serve as a vibrant cultural and historical landmark in Orkney.Visitor Experience and Educational Value
Exploring Skaill House offers a deeply immersive journey through Orkney’s layered past, from medieval times through the Renaissance and Victorian periods to the present day. The house’s collections, architectural features, and archaeological connections provide rich educational opportunities for history enthusiasts, families, and cultural travelers. Children can engage with interactive activities such as the Viking hunt, enhancing the appeal for younger visitors. The onsite gift shop features locally produced crafts and literature, complementing the educational visit with unique souvenirs.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Cannon
10.3 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
30.3 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
30.5 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
Above and Beyond Tours
47.1 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
47.4 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Bay of Sannick
47.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of the Bay of Sannick, a stunning coastal gem in John o' Groats, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Quoyness Chambered Cairn
48.1 km
Discover the ancient mysteries of Quoyness Chambered Cairn, a Neolithic burial site on Sanday Island, Orkney, steeped in history and natural beauty.
Duncansby Head Lighthouse
48.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Duncansby Head Lighthouse, a must-see landmark on Scotland's northern coast.
Duncansby Stacks
49.5 km
Discover the breathtaking Duncansby Stacks, a natural marvel of towering cliffs and vibrant wildlife on Scotland's stunning coastline.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
50.1 km
Discover the captivating history and culture of Castletown at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, a unique museum in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Harold’s Tower
50.3 km
Discover the charm and history of Harold's Tower in Thurso, a stunning heritage site offering breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
50.4 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Old St Peter’s Church, Thurso
51.2 km
Discover the architectural splendor and rich history of Old St Peter’s Church, a must-visit historical landmark in Thurso, Scotland.
Caithness Agricultural Society
51.3 km
Experience the rich agricultural heritage of Caithness at the Caithness Agricultural Society, a vibrant hub for farming enthusiasts and tourists.
North Coast Visitor Centre
51.4 km
Discover the North Coast Visitor Centre in Thurso, a museum and café that showcases Scotland's stunning northern coastline and rich cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Skaill House Falconry
0.0 km
Experience Orkney’s captivating birds of prey up close in a family-run falconry set within historic grounds near Skara Brae.
Skara Brae Visitor Centre
0.1 km
Explore one of Europe’s oldest and best-preserved Neolithic villages with a modern visitor centre and rich archaeological insights on Orkney’s stunning coast.
Skara Brae Prehistoric Village
0.3 km
Step back 5,000 years at Skara Brae, Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic village with stone houses, ancient furniture, and immersive exhibitions.
Bay of Skaill
0.8 km
Explore Bay of Skaill’s sweeping sands and ancient shores, home to the remarkable Neolithic village of Skara Brae and dramatic Atlantic vistas.
Broch of Borwick
2.1 km
Discover the atmospheric Broch of Borwick, a rugged Iron Age relic perched on Orkney’s wild west coast cliffs.
Borwick Castle Sea Stack
2.2 km
Explore the dramatic Borwick Castle Sea Stack and ancient Iron Age broch perched on Orkney’s rugged, windswept coastline.
Yesnaby
2.9 km
Dramatic sandstone cliffs, ancient fossils, and the iconic two-legged sea stack create a captivating coastal experience on Orkney’s wild west shore.
Orkney FolkLore and Storytelling Centre (Via House)
3.5 km
Experience Orkney’s rich maritime legends and island folklore around the peat fire in a unique cultural storytelling centre near Stromness.
Orkney Attractions
3.5 km
Immerse yourself in Orkney’s rich oral heritage through storytelling, guided walks, and cultural workshops at this unique visitor centre.
Yesnaby Castle sea stack
3.6 km
Dramatic 115-foot sandstone sea stack with a natural arch, set amid wild cliffs and crashing Atlantic waves on Orkney’s west coast.
Yesnaby Coastal Walk
4.0 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and ancient fossil-rich sandstone of Yesnaby Coastal Walk near Stromness, a dramatic and scenic Orkney hiking experience.
HMS TERN (RNAS Twatt)
4.7 km
Explore HMS TERN in Twatt, Orkney—a historical landmark offering insights into naval aviation and the region's wartime heritage amidst stunning natural beauty.
RSPB Scotland Marwick Head Nature Reserve
5.5 km
Experience Orkney’s dramatic cliffs, vibrant seabird colonies, and poignant history at RSPB Scotland Marwick Head Nature Reserve.
Marwick Head
5.9 km
Dramatic cliffs, vast seabird colonies, and a poignant WWI memorial converge at Orkney’s breathtaking Marwick Head.
Castaway Crafts
6.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures and authentic Orkney artistry at Castaway Crafts, nestled in the cozy charm of Rose Cottage, Dounby.
Essential places to dine
The Skerries Restaurant
6.4 km
Experience exquisite local seafood with breathtaking views at The Skerries Restaurant by Loch of Harray in Orkney’s tranquil natural setting.
Julia's Cafe Bistro
9.5 km
Cozy cafe in Stromness offering freshly made rolls with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Adam's Place
9.5 km
Fresh local seafood and an acclaimed wine list await you at Adam's Place, a cozy culinary highlight on Stromness’s waterfront.
Ferry Inn Stromness
9.6 km
A cozy, historic inn on Stromness harbour offering hearty local cuisine and warm hospitality just steps from the ferry terminal.
The Hamnavoe Restaurant
9.8 km
A cozy, historic Stromness restaurant serving innovative seasonal dishes blending Orkney seafood with European and Asian flavors.
Leigh's Real Taste of Orkney
13.7 km
Discover Orkney’s finest takeaway flavors at Leigh's, where local produce meets generous portions and friendly service in Finstown.
Eviedale Bistro & Bakehouse
14.9 km
Orkney's pioneering sourdough bakery and wood-fired pizzeria, where artisanal craft meets island hospitality.
The Foveran
21.4 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
22.6 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Happy Haddock
22.7 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Busters Diner
22.7 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
22.7 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Helgi's
22.7 km
A vibrant harbourfront gastropub blending Orkney’s Viking heritage with fresh local fare and lively community spirit.
Lucano
22.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
Dil Se Restaurant
22.7 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Kirkwall’s award-winning Dil Se Restaurant, blending tradition with local freshness.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Orkney Antique Centre
7.9 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through a captivating collection of antiques in the historic former community centre of Birsay.
Waterfront Gallery
9.8 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and local artistry at Waterfront Gallery, a cultural gem in the heart of Stromness.
Cream
9.8 km
Explore Cream in Stromness for unique gifts, local art, and a taste of Orkney's creativity.
Vintage Paper Co
10.0 km
Discover handmade papers, artisanal bookbinding, and unique stationery in the heart of Stromness at Vintage Paper Co.
Heksmoar
13.3 km
A charming craft shop in Stromness showcasing handcrafted Orcadian textiles, ceramics, jewellery and art in a warm, welcoming space.
Woolshed
13.6 km
Discover authentic Orkney woolcraft at The Woolshed, a historic knit shop and workshop set amidst stunning island landscapes.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
22.2 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Judith Glue
22.7 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.
Orkney Tweed
22.7 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
The Longship
22.7 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Blue Joe's
22.7 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and unique souvenirs at Blue Joe's, Kirkwall’s charming gift shop full of local treasures and stories.
Aurora Jewellery
22.7 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
22.7 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Orkney Souvenirs
22.8 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and local treasures in Kirkwall’s welcoming souvenir shop, celebrating island heritage and artistry.
Poundstretcher
22.8 km
Discover unbeatable value and variety at Poundstretcher Kirkwall, your go-to discount store in the heart of Orkney’s town center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Taversoe
19.2 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
22.5 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Oot The Back
22.6 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Auld Motor Hoose
22.6 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
22.7 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Highland Park Bar
22.7 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
22.7 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
22.7 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
22.7 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.
The West End Guest House
22.8 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
33.0 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
46.1 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
The Belsair
46.7 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
47.5 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
50.1 km
Experience delightful flavors and breathtaking views at Peerie Cafe, your cozy retreat by the Thurso harbor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
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
