Skara Brae Prehistoric Village
Step back 5,000 years at Skara Brae, Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic village with stone houses, ancient furniture, and immersive exhibitions.
Skara Brae is Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic village, located on Orkney’s Bay of Skaill. Dating back over 5,000 years, this remarkable archaeological site features eight stone houses with intact furniture, connected by covered passageways. Visitors can explore the original village ruins from designated paths and experience a full-scale reconstruction of House 7. The site includes a visitor centre with exhibitions, artefacts, and a café, offering a vivid glimpse into prehistoric life before the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge were built.
A brief summary to Skara Brae Prehistoric Village
- Stromness, Sandwick, KW16 3LR, GB
- +441856841815
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and parking, especially during peak summer months.
- Visit the full-scale House 7 reconstruction to experience the interior of a Neolithic home.
- Allow 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the visitor centre, exhibition, village site, and nearby Skaill House.
- Wear sturdy footwear for walking the paths around the village, which include some steps and uneven surfaces.
- Consider attending summer evening tours for a quieter, atmospheric visit after regular hours.
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
Take the Stagecoach bus service from Kirkwall to Sandwick, which runs several times daily with a journey time of approximately 40 to 50 minutes. From Sandwick, a 20-minute walk or local taxi can bring you to Skara Brae. Bus fares range from £5 to £8 one way.
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Car
Driving from Kirkwall to Skara Brae takes about 30 minutes via the A965 and local roads. Parking is available on site but limited, so booking your ticket online in advance secures a parking space. Parking is free for visitors.
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Taxi
Local taxi services operate from Kirkwall and Stromness to Skara Brae, with journey times around 30 minutes. A taxi fare typically ranges from £30 to £40 one way. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season.
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Walking
For the adventurous, walking from Sandwick village to Skara Brae takes about 20 minutes along a coastal path with some uneven terrain. This option is suitable for visitors with moderate fitness levels and proper footwear.
Skara Brae Prehistoric Village 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 Skara Brae Prehistoric Village
A Window into Neolithic Life
Skara Brae is a unique archaeological treasure, revealing the daily lives of a farming community that thrived around 3,100 to 2,500 BC. Buried under sand for millennia until uncovered by a storm in 1850, the village’s semi-subterranean stone houses remain astonishingly intact. Each house contains built-in stone furniture such as beds, dressers, and seats, offering unparalleled insight into prehistoric domestic architecture and lifestyle. The village’s layout, with interconnected homes and covered passageways, illustrates a sophisticated community planning far ahead of its time.Visitor Centre and Exhibitions
The modern visitor centre serves as the gateway to Skara Brae, featuring a comprehensive exhibition of artefacts excavated from the site. Interactive displays and a short introductory film set the historical context, while the centre’s café and gift shop provide amenities for visitors. Adjacent to the centre is the full-scale reconstruction of House 7, furnished with animal skins and replicas of Neolithic tools, allowing visitors to step inside and imagine life 5,000 years ago.Exploring the Site and Surroundings
From the visitor centre, a well-maintained path leads to the village ruins, winding along the scenic Bay of Skaill. For conservation reasons, visitors observe the houses from designated walkways, which offer clear views into each room. The path features a timeline marked by stones, illustrating key historical events proportionally to distance, helping visitors appreciate the village’s ancient origins relative to other world milestones. Nearby, Skaill House, a 17th-century mansion included in the ticket price during summer months, adds further historical depth to the visit.Preservation and Environmental Challenges
Skara Brae is protected by a sea wall to guard against coastal erosion, a constant threat due to its exposed location. Managed by Historic Environment Scotland, the site is maintained meticulously to preserve its fragile remains. Despite its remote setting, Skara Brae welcomes visitors year-round, with reduced hours in winter. Evening tours during summer offer a rare chance to experience the site without crowds, enhancing the atmosphere of this ancient village.Significance within the Heart of Neolithic Orkney
Skara Brae forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, alongside other monumental sites like the Ring of Brodgar and Maeshowe chambered tomb. This collective heritage highlights Orkney’s importance as a centre of prehistoric culture and innovation. The village’s abandonment around 2,500 BC remains a mystery, with theories ranging from environmental changes to gradual societal shifts.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
A typical visit lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, encompassing the visitor centre, House 7 reconstruction, and the archaeological site. The paths are surfaced and accessible for most visitors, though some steps around the village may limit full wheelchair access. The site is family-friendly, with informative boards and staff available to answer questions. Booking tickets online in advance is advised, especially during busy summer months when cruise ship tours increase visitor numbers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Cannon
10.5 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
30.6 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
30.9 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
47.3 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
47.6 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
48.1 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
48.3 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
48.6 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Duncansby Head Lighthouse, a must-see landmark on Scotland's northern coast.
Duncansby Stacks
49.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Duncansby Stacks, a natural marvel of towering cliffs and vibrant wildlife on Scotland's stunning coastline.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
50.2 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
50.4 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))
50.5 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
51.3 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
0.3 km
Explore Skaill House, Orkney’s finest 17th-century mansion, steeped in history and linked to the ancient Neolithic village of Skara Brae.
Skara Brae Visitor Centre
0.4 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.
Skaill House Falconry
0.4 km
Experience Orkney’s captivating birds of prey up close in a family-run falconry set within historic grounds near Skara Brae.
Bay of Skaill
0.6 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.
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.
Orkney FolkLore and Storytelling Centre (Via House)
3.8 km
Experience Orkney’s rich maritime legends and island folklore around the peat fire in a unique cultural storytelling centre near Stromness.
Orkney Attractions
3.8 km
Immerse yourself in Orkney’s rich oral heritage through storytelling, guided walks, and cultural workshops at this unique visitor centre.
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
5.3 km
Experience Orkney’s dramatic cliffs, vibrant seabird colonies, and poignant history at RSPB Scotland Marwick Head Nature Reserve.
Marwick Head
5.7 km
Dramatic cliffs, vast seabird colonies, and a poignant WWI memorial converge at Orkney’s breathtaking Marwick Head.
Castaway Crafts
6.6 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
6.6 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
9.7 km
Cozy cafe in Stromness offering freshly made rolls with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Adam's Place
9.7 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
9.8 km
A cozy, historic inn on Stromness harbour offering hearty local cuisine and warm hospitality just steps from the ferry terminal.
The Hamnavoe Restaurant
10.0 km
A cozy, historic Stromness restaurant serving innovative seasonal dishes blending Orkney seafood with European and Asian flavors.
Leigh's Real Taste of Orkney
14.0 km
Discover Orkney’s finest takeaway flavors at Leigh's, where local produce meets generous portions and friendly service in Finstown.
Eviedale Bistro & Bakehouse
15.1 km
Orkney's pioneering sourdough bakery and wood-fired pizzeria, where artisanal craft meets island hospitality.
The Foveran
21.8 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
23.0 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Happy Haddock
23.0 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Busters Diner
23.0 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
23.0 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Helgi's
23.0 km
A vibrant harbourfront gastropub blending Orkney’s Viking heritage with fresh local fare and lively community spirit.
Lucano
23.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
Dil Se Restaurant
23.1 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
10.0 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and local artistry at Waterfront Gallery, a cultural gem in the heart of Stromness.
Cream
10.0 km
Explore Cream in Stromness for unique gifts, local art, and a taste of Orkney's creativity.
Vintage Paper Co
10.2 km
Discover handmade papers, artisanal bookbinding, and unique stationery in the heart of Stromness at Vintage Paper Co.
Heksmoar
13.6 km
A charming craft shop in Stromness showcasing handcrafted Orcadian textiles, ceramics, jewellery and art in a warm, welcoming space.
Woolshed
13.7 km
Discover authentic Orkney woolcraft at The Woolshed, a historic knit shop and workshop set amidst stunning island landscapes.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
22.5 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Judith Glue
23.1 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
23.1 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
The Longship
23.1 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Blue Joe's
23.1 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
23.1 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
23.1 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Orkney Souvenirs
23.1 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and local treasures in Kirkwall’s welcoming souvenir shop, celebrating island heritage and artistry.
Poundstretcher
23.1 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
19.5 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
22.8 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Oot The Back
22.9 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Auld Motor Hoose
23.0 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
23.0 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Highland Park Bar
23.0 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
23.1 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
23.1 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
23.1 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
23.1 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
33.3 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
46.3 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
The Belsair
46.9 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
47.6 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Orkney Club
23.0 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
51.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
69.0 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- 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
- Solo Female Friendly