Stromness Museum: A Window into Orkney’s Maritime and Natural Heritage
Explore Orkney’s maritime past and natural wonders at Stromness Museum, a captivating cultural gem on the waterfront.
Stromness Museum, located in a charming waterfront building in the south end of Stromness, Orkney, offers a rich journey through the region’s maritime history, natural science, and local culture. Its exhibits include artefacts from the German High Seas Fleet, Hudson’s Bay, whaling history, and the explorer Dr John Rae. The museum’s first floor features taxidermy and marine life displays, making it a fascinating destination for all ages. Open Monday to Saturday with a small admission fee, it also hosts guided tours and seasonal refreshments.
A brief summary to Stromness Museum
- 52 Alfred St, Stromness, KW16 3DH, GB
- +441856850025
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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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 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during summer for extended opening hours and enjoy refreshments at the nearby Pumpwell Café.
- Book the curator-led guided tours on Wednesdays or Thursdays for an in-depth experience.
- Check opening hours in winter as they are shorter and the museum is closed on Sundays.
- Explore the museum shop for unique local souvenirs and gifts.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Kirkwall to Stromness, which runs approximately every hour and takes about 45-60 minutes. Buses stop near the town centre, a 10-minute walk from the museum. Tickets cost around £5-£7 one way.
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Car
Driving from Kirkwall to Stromness takes about 30-40 minutes via the A965 road. Parking is available near the museum but can be limited during peak times. There is no parking fee.
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Ferry and Taxi
If arriving by ferry to Stromness from mainland Scotland, a taxi ride from the ferry terminal to the museum takes about 5 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from £5 to £10.
Stromness Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Stromness Museum
Maritime Legacy and Local Stories
Stromness Museum is deeply rooted in the maritime heritage of Orkney, housed in a historic waterfront building at the town’s southern edge. The museum’s collection reflects Stromness’s seafaring past, featuring artefacts from the sunken German High Seas Fleet, which was scuttled in nearby Scapa Flow during World War I. Visitors can explore items linked to the Hudson’s Bay Company and the town’s whaling era, alongside displays dedicated to notable local figures such as the Arctic explorer Dr John Rae.Natural Science and Wildlife Exhibits
The museum’s first-floor galleries showcase an impressive array of stuffed birds, marine animals, and other wildlife native to Orkney. These natural science exhibits offer insight into the region’s biodiversity and are particularly popular with families and children. The carefully preserved specimens provide an engaging way to connect with Orkney’s natural environment and its ecological significance.Community and Cultural Significance
Beyond its collections, Stromness Museum serves as a cultural hub for the local community, preserving and promoting Orkney’s history and traditions. It hosts special exhibitions and educational programs that engage visitors with the stories of the people who shaped the islands. The museum’s location opposite the home of poet George Mackay Brown further enriches its cultural context.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Open Monday to Saturday from 11:00 to 15:30 during the winter months and extended hours in summer, the museum charges a modest admission fee (£7.50 for adults, £5.00 for students). Guided curator-led tours are available weekly, providing deeper insights into the exhibits. Seasonal refreshments, including soup, sandwiches, and cakes, can be enjoyed at the nearby Pumpwell Café during summer. The museum shop offers unique Stromness souvenirs, perfect for gifts and mementos.Architectural and Scenic Setting
The museum’s waterfront setting offers picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere that complements the historical and natural themes inside. Its building, characteristic of Stromness’s maritime townscape, adds to the authentic experience, blending heritage architecture with the scenic charm of Orkney’s coastline.Preserving Orkney’s Heritage for Future Generations
As an independent museum, Stromness Museum is committed to preserving Orkney’s rich heritage through ongoing curation and community involvement. It provides a vital link between past and present, inviting visitors to explore the island’s unique history, environment, and culture in an engaging and accessible way.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Cannon
0.2 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.
Above and Beyond Tours
37.3 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
37.3 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
40.3 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))
40.6 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
41.0 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
42.0 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
42.0 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
42.2 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
43.7 km
Explore Westray Heritage Trust, where history comes alive in the beautiful Orkney Islands, showcasing the island's rich culture and traditions.
Things Va
43.8 km
Uncover the secrets of Scotland's ancient heritage at Thurso Broch, a remarkable historical site that whispers tales of the past.
Noltland Castle
43.8 km
Explore the historical wonders of Noltland Castle in Orkney, where stunning architecture meets breathtaking landscapes.
Bucholie Castle
44.6 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views of Bucholie Castle, an enchanting historical landmark in Nybster, near Wick, Scotland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pier Arts Centre
0.6 km
Discover a nationally significant collection of 20th century British art in Stromness’s award-winning Pier Arts Centre with free admission and inspiring exhibitions.
Statue of Dr John Rae, Artic Explorer
0.7 km
Discover the legacy of Orcadian Arctic explorer Dr John Rae at his commemorative statue in the historic harbor town of Stromness.
Ness Battery
0.7 km
Explore Ness Battery, a preserved World War coastal defense site in Stromness, revealing Orkney’s vital naval history and wartime stories.
Stromness Harbour
1.0 km
Historic Stromness Harbour: a sheltered maritime gateway blending rich heritage with vibrant coastal charm in Orkney.
Hoy High Lighthouse
2.9 km
Explore Hoy High Lighthouse, a historic gem in Orkney, where maritime history meets stunning coastal views and natural beauty.
Unstan Chambered Cairn
4.4 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
6.2 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
6.4 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
6.6 km
A peaceful wildlife sanctuary set within Orkney’s ancient Neolithic landscape, blending natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.
RSPB Scotland Hoy nature reserve
6.6 km
Explore rugged cliffs, vibrant seabird colonies, and wild moorland at RSPB Scotland Hoy Nature Reserve, a sanctuary of natural beauty and wildlife.
Ness of Brodgar
6.6 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
6.7 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
6.9 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.
Yesnaby Coastal Walk
7.3 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and ancient fossil-rich sandstone of Yesnaby Coastal Walk near Stromness, a dramatic and scenic Orkney hiking experience.
Yesnaby Castle sea stack
7.4 km
Dramatic 115-foot sandstone sea stack with a natural arch, set amid wild cliffs and crashing Atlantic waves on Orkney’s west coast.
Essential places to dine
The Hamnavoe Restaurant
0.4 km
A cozy, historic Stromness restaurant serving innovative seasonal dishes blending Orkney seafood with European and Asian flavors.
Ferry Inn Stromness
0.7 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
0.8 km
Cozy cafe in Stromness offering freshly made rolls with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Adam's Place
0.8 km
Fresh local seafood and an acclaimed wine list await you at Adam's Place, a cozy culinary highlight on Stromness’s waterfront.
The Skerries Restaurant
11.4 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
12.0 km
Discover Orkney’s finest takeaway flavors at Leigh's, where local produce meets generous portions and friendly service in Finstown.
Emily’s
13.8 km
Charming and quirky café in Lyness offering homemade treats and warm hospitality near Stromness ferry terminal.
The Foveran
16.8 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Happy Haddock
19.5 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
19.5 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Lucano
19.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
Sakura Kitchen
19.6 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
The Orkney Hotel
19.6 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Busters Diner
19.8 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
19.8 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vintage Paper Co
0.2 km
Discover handmade papers, artisanal bookbinding, and unique stationery in the heart of Stromness at Vintage Paper Co.
Cream
0.4 km
Explore Cream in Stromness for unique gifts, local art, and a taste of Orkney's creativity.
Waterfront Gallery
0.4 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and local artistry at Waterfront Gallery, a cultural gem in the heart of Stromness.
Heksmoar
9.6 km
A charming craft shop in Stromness showcasing handcrafted Orcadian textiles, ceramics, jewellery and art in a warm, welcoming space.
Wild Heather Crafts
13.9 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and handmade treasures at Wild Heather Crafts, a cozy artisan shop in Stromness.
Orkney Antique Centre
17.7 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through a captivating collection of antiques in the historic former community centre of Birsay.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
19.1 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Orkney Tweed
19.6 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Blue Joe's
19.7 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
19.7 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.
The Longship
19.7 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Aurora Jewellery
19.8 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
19.8 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
19.8 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Kairds
19.8 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
19.6 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
19.6 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
19.6 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
19.7 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Oot The Back
19.7 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
The Neuk
19.8 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Highland Park Bar
19.9 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.
Skippers
19.9 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
19.9 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
The Taversoe
24.3 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
24.7 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 Mey Hotel
36.0 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
37.6 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
41.1 km
Experience delightful flavors and breathtaking views at Peerie Cafe, your cozy retreat by the Thurso harbor.
The Grove Lounge
42.3 km
A cozy and lively bar in Thurso offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
