The Tankerness House and Orkney Museum: A Historic Heart of Kirkwall
Explore Orkney’s rich history in the stunning 16th-century Tankerness House, home to the internationally significant Orkney Museum.
The Tankerness House in Kirkwall, Orkney, is a historic 16th-century townhouse that now houses the Orkney Museum. This A-listed building showcases Orkney's rich heritage from the Stone Age through Viking times to the modern era. Visitors can explore extensive archaeological collections, preserved family rooms, and tranquil walled gardens, all located opposite the iconic St Magnus Cathedral.
A brief summary to The Tankerness House
- Broad St, Kirkwall, KW15 1DG, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Admission to the Orkney Museum is free, but donations are welcome to support its preservation and exhibitions.
- Visit the Baikie Library and Drawing Room to see authentic 19th-century interiors preserved from the Baikie family home.
- Take time to explore the tranquil walled garden behind the house, a peaceful spot reflecting the site's historic charm.
- The museum is open Monday to Saturday from 10:30 to 17:00, making it a perfect destination for a daytime cultural visit.
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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Bus
Local bus services run regularly between Kirkwall town center and key points in Orkney, with stops within a 10-minute walk of Tankerness House. Travel times vary but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from nearby towns. Tickets cost approximately £2-£5. Services operate daily but check schedules for frequency and accessibility.
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Car
Driving to Kirkwall from other parts of Orkney takes between 20 and 60 minutes depending on your starting point. Parking near Broad Street is limited, with some public car parks within a 5-minute walk. Parking fees range from free to £3 per hour. Note that Kirkwall town center has narrow streets and some pedestrian-only zones.
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Walking
If staying in Kirkwall, Tankerness House is easily accessible on foot from most central accommodations. Walking times from the town center range from 5 to 15 minutes on paved, flat terrain. The route is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
The Tankerness 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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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Tankerness House
A Storied Residence Turned Museum
The Tankerness House, situated on Broad Street in Kirkwall, is one of Orkney's finest and most historically significant townhouses. Originally constructed in the 1530s, the house began as two separate manses serving St Magnus Cathedral clergy. After the Scottish Reformation, Gilbert Foulzie, the first Protestant minister, acquired the buildings and added the distinctive east wing and arched gateway in 1574, which still bears his coat of arms and Latin inscriptions. The house evolved over centuries, with the Baikie family purchasing it in 1642 and expanding it further. The Baikies, a prominent local family, owned the property for over 300 years before it was sold to Kirkwall Burgh Council in 1951 and later restored to become the Orkney Museum in 1968.Architectural Charm and Historic Features
Tankerness House is a sprawling two-storey complex arranged around a rectangular courtyard. Its architecture reflects layers of history, from the original 16th-century northern and southern wings to the 17th and 18th-century additions by the Baikies. Notable features include the grand arched gateway, the 'dole's seat' bench in the courtyard where alms were once given to beggars, and the beautifully maintained walled garden behind the house. The preserved Baikie Library and Drawing Room offer a glimpse into 19th-century domestic life, with original furnishings and a collection of nearly 500 volumes.A Window into Orkney’s Past
The Orkney Museum housed within Tankerness House presents a comprehensive narrative of Orkney’s history, spanning over 5,000 years. Its internationally important archaeological collection includes Neolithic stone tools from sites like Isbister Chambered Cairn, Bronze Age metalwork, enigmatic Pictish symbol stones, and remarkable Viking artefacts such as the whalebone 'dragon' plaque from the Scar boat burial. The museum also features social history galleries with photographs and objects that chronicle Orkney’s more recent history, providing a rich cultural context.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Tankerness House enjoy a tranquil and atmospheric setting, enhanced by the historic architecture and serene gardens. The museum’s layout encourages exploration, with rooms that transport visitors back in time and exhibitions that engage with Orkney’s archaeological and cultural heritage. The museum shop offers local crafts and books, complementing the educational experience. Accessibility features include an induction loop, accessible toilets, and stair lifts, ensuring a welcoming environment for diverse audiences.Location and Cultural Significance
Located directly opposite the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral, Tankerness House holds a central place in Kirkwall’s historic core. Its status as a Category A listed building underscores its architectural and cultural importance. The museum’s role in preserving and interpreting Orkney’s heritage makes it an essential destination for those seeking to understand the islands’ unique past, from prehistoric settlements through Viking influence to modern times.Preservation and Legacy
The transformation of Tankerness House from a private family residence to a public museum reflects Orkney’s commitment to preserving its heritage. The 1968 restoration respected the building’s historic fabric while adapting it for museum use. Today, the Orkney Museum continues to evolve, with temporary exhibitions and ongoing conservation efforts that maintain the house’s legacy as a cultural landmark in Kirkwall.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
10.2 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
10.5 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
The Cannon
19.7 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
John O'Groats Signpost
38.0 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Knap of Howar
41.0 km
Explore Knap of Howar, a Neolithic gem in Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Dunnet Head Lighthouse
42.0 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich heritage of Dunnet Head Lighthouse, Scotland's northernmost landmark with breathtaking coastal views.
Bucholie Castle
45.5 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views of Bucholie Castle, an enchanting historical landmark in Nybster, near Wick, Scotland.
Above and Beyond Tours
45.8 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
45.9 km
Explore the fascinating history of Caithness at Mary Ann's Cottage, a charming museum showcasing 19th-century life and culture.
Caithness Broch Centre
47.8 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
48.3 km
Discover the enchanting Nybster Broch, an ancient Iron Age site in Scotland offering a unique glimpse into Pictish history amidst stunning coastal vistas.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
49.1 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
49.1 km
Discover the captivating history and culture of Castletown at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, a unique museum in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Old Keiss Castle
50.0 km
Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.
Whitegate broch
50.5 km
An atmospheric Iron Age broch perched on a Caithness headland, offering dramatic sea views and a powerful sense of Scotland’s ancient past.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Orkney Museum
0.0 km
Discover Orkney’s story from ancient times to today in the historic Tankerness House, home to nationally significant archaeology and vibrant cultural exhibits.
St Magnus Cathedral
0.1 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest cathedral, a stunning medieval masterpiece and spiritual heart of Orkney, rich with Norse history and vibrant cultural life.
Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces
0.1 km
Explore Kirkwall’s medieval and Renaissance palaces where Norse kings and notorious earls shaped Orkney’s history.
Badly Drawn Cat
0.2 km
A cozy vegan café and art gallery in Kirkwall blending plant-based delights with local creativity and friendly charm.
The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre
0.3 km
Discover Orkney’s hand-crafted spirits and rich heritage at Kirkwall’s vibrant distillery and visitor centre on the historic harbour front.
Spirit of Orkney
0.3 km
Explore the historic heart of Kirkwall where Orkney’s rich Norse heritage and vibrant local culture come alive.
Orkney Wireless Museum
0.4 km
Explore a century of wireless communication and wartime heritage in Orkney’s volunteer-run museum with interactive exhibits and rare memorabilia.
Grain Earth House
1.1 km
Discover the enchanting Grain Earth House, a historical landmark in Kirkwall, Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Highland Park Whisky Distillery
1.5 km
Explore the northernmost Scotch whisky distillery, blending Viking heritage and Orkney’s unique peat smoke into world-renowned single malts.
Scapa Beach
2.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history of Scapa Beach, a scenic coastal gem near Kirkwall in Orkney.
Wideford Hill Scenic View
3.8 km
A quiet Orkney hilltop with sweeping views over Kirkwall, the Bay of Firth, and the surrounding countryside, perfect for panoramic photos and peaceful reflection.
Wideford Hill Cairn
4.1 km
Explore Wideford Hill Cairn, a majestic 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb in Orkney, blending ancient architecture with celestial mysteries and stunning views.
Rennibister Earth House
5.4 km
Discover the Rennibister Earth House, a prehistoric marvel nestled in the Orkney Islands, embodying ancient heritage and natural beauty.
Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café
6.9 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery in a restored church, where ancient enamelling techniques meet contemporary design.
Waulkmill Bay
7.9 km
Discover Waulkmill Bay, Orkney’s peaceful golden beach with stunning Scapa Flow views and a hidden coastal charm perfect for picnics and nature lovers.
Essential places to dine
Lucano
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
The Orkney Hotel
0.1 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
0.2 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Happy Haddock
0.2 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Busters Diner
0.3 km
A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
Trenabies Cafe Bistro
0.3 km
Cozy cafe and bistro in Kirkwall offering hearty local dishes, great coffee, and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Twenty One
0.3 km
A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Bothy Bar
0.3 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Pomona Cafe
0.3 km
A cozy, traditional Kirkwall cafe serving hearty breakfasts and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney’s capital.
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms
0.3 km
A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms.
Helgi's
0.4 km
A vibrant harbourfront gastropub blending Orkney’s Viking heritage with fresh local fare and lively community spirit.
Dil Se Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Kirkwall’s award-winning Dil Se Restaurant, blending tradition with local freshness.
The Shore
0.4 km
Modern waterfront hotel in Kirkwall's harbor district with clean rooms, full breakfast, and walking access to town attractions.
Sakura Kitchen
0.5 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
The Foveran
3.9 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Judith Glue
0.0 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.
Blue Joe's
0.0 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and unique souvenirs at Blue Joe's, Kirkwall’s charming gift shop full of local treasures and stories.
The Longship
0.1 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Orkney Tweed
0.1 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Aurora Jewellery
0.1 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
0.2 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
0.2 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Kairds
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Poundstretcher
0.2 km
Discover unbeatable value and variety at Poundstretcher Kirkwall, your go-to discount store in the heart of Orkney’s town center.
The Orcadian Bookshop
0.3 km
Discover Orkney’s stories and culture at The Orcadian Bookshop, Kirkwall’s independent literary gem in the historic city centre.
Orkney Souvenirs
0.4 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and local treasures in Kirkwall’s welcoming souvenir shop, celebrating island heritage and artistry.
Anchor Shopping Centre
0.4 km
A compact, modern shopping mall in central Kirkwall, offering everyday essentials, fashion, health and beauty, and practical services in a convenient indoor setting.
The Original Orkney Hamper Company
0.4 km
Discover authentic Orkney flavors and handcrafted gifts in charming hampers from Kirkwall’s beloved local shop.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
0.6 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Celina Rupp Jewellery
10.0 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery and café where island stories become wearable art.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
0.1 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.
Auld Motor Hoose
0.2 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
0.3 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Oot The Back
0.3 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
The West End Guest House
0.3 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
0.4 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Highland Park Bar
0.4 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
0.4 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
0.4 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
17.1 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
17.3 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 Belsair
34.6 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
The Mey Hotel
41.4 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
45.8 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
50.5 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
0.4 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
53.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
60.3 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
- Cultural Heritage
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
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
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
