Discover the Wonders of Orkney Attractions
Explore the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Orkney Islands at the Orkney Attractions Visitor Center in Stromness.
Orkney Attractions is a must-visit visitor center located in Stromness, providing tourists with rich insights into the history and natural beauty of the Orkney Islands. This center is your gateway to explore the breathtaking landscapes, archaeological sites, and vibrant culture that define this unique archipelago. With engaging exhibits and knowledgeable staff, it serves as an excellent starting point for your Orkney adventure.
A brief summary to Orkney Attractions
- Via House, A967, Stromness, Sandwick, Stromness, KW16 3JF, GB
- +441856841207
Local tips
- Visit early to avoid crowds and get personalized recommendations from the staff.
- Make sure to check the event schedule for local workshops and exhibitions.
- Pick up a map and brochure to help plan your itinerary across the islands.
- Ask about guided tours for a deeper understanding of Orkney's history and landmarks.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head towards Stromness. From the main town of Stromness, take the A967 road towards Sandwick. Follow the A967 for approximately 3 miles until you reach Via House, located on your right-hand side. There is parking available nearby.
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Public Transportation
To reach Orkney Attractions using public transport, take a local bus from Kirkwall or another town towards Stromness. Buses are operated by Orkney Islands Council and run regularly; check the local timetable for exact times. Once you arrive in Stromness, disembark at the main bus stop and walk approximately 15 minutes along the A967 towards Sandwick. Keep an eye out for Via House on your left.
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Taxi
For a more direct route, consider taking a taxi from your location in Orkney. Taxis are available in Kirkwall and Stromness. The journey from Kirkwall to Via House in Sandwick should take about 25 minutes and will cost approximately £25-£30. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
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Walking
If you're nearby and prefer to walk, you can take a scenic route from Stromness along the A967. The walk is roughly 1.5 miles and takes about 30-40 minutes. Ensure you are on the lookout for traffic, especially as the road can be busy at times.
Discover more about Orkney Attractions
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Cannon
7.6 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
26.9 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
27.1 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
John O'Groats Signpost
44.3 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Mary Ann's Cottage
44.7 km
Explore the fascinating history of Caithness at Mary Ann's Cottage, a charming museum showcasing 19th-century life and culture.
Above and Beyond Tours
44.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Duncansby Head Lighthouse
45.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Duncansby Head Lighthouse, a must-see landmark on Scotland's northern coast.
Duncansby Stacks
46.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Duncansby Stacks, a natural marvel of towering cliffs and vibrant wildlife on Scotland's stunning coastline.
Quoyness Chambered Cairn
47.0 km
Discover the ancient mysteries of Quoyness Chambered Cairn, a Neolithic burial site on Sanday Island, Orkney, steeped in history and natural beauty.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
47.8 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))
48.1 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
48.3 km
Discover the charm and history of Harold's Tower in Thurso, a stunning heritage site offering breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.
Old St Peter’s Church, Thurso
49.3 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
49.3 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
49.5 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
Orkney FolkLore and Storytelling Centre (Via House)
0.0 km
Experience Orkney’s rich maritime legends and island folklore around the peat fire in a unique cultural storytelling centre near Stromness.
Borwick Castle Sea Stack
3.5 km
Explore the dramatic Borwick Castle Sea Stack and ancient Iron Age broch perched on Orkney’s rugged, windswept coastline.
Broch of Borwick
3.5 km
Discover the atmospheric Broch of Borwick, a rugged Iron Age relic perched on Orkney’s wild west coast cliffs.
Skaill House Falconry
3.5 km
Experience Orkney’s captivating birds of prey up close in a family-run falconry set within historic grounds near Skara Brae.
Skaill House
3.5 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
3.6 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.
Yesnaby
3.7 km
Dramatic sandstone cliffs, ancient fossils, and the iconic two-legged sea stack create a captivating coastal experience on Orkney’s wild west shore.
Skara Brae Prehistoric Village
3.8 km
Step back 5,000 years at Skara Brae, Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic village with stone houses, ancient furniture, and immersive exhibitions.
Yesnaby Castle sea stack
3.9 km
Dramatic 115-foot sandstone sea stack with a natural arch, set amid wild cliffs and crashing Atlantic waves on Orkney’s west coast.
RSPB Scotland Brodgar Nature Reserve
4.2 km
A peaceful wildlife sanctuary set within Orkney’s ancient Neolithic landscape, blending natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.
Yesnaby Coastal Walk
4.2 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and ancient fossil-rich sandstone of Yesnaby Coastal Walk near Stromness, a dramatic and scenic Orkney hiking experience.
Bay of Skaill
4.3 km
Explore Bay of Skaill’s sweeping sands and ancient shores, home to the remarkable Neolithic village of Skara Brae and dramatic Atlantic vistas.
Ring of Brodgar
4.5 km
Explore the majestic Neolithic Ring of Brodgar, a vast stone circle and henge steeped in mystery and ancient ritual on Orkney’s Mainland.
Unstan Chambered Cairn
5.0 km
Explore a unique 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial cairn blending ancient architectural styles and famed for its distinctive pottery in Orkney.
Ness of Brodgar
5.5 km
Explore the monumental Neolithic heart of Orkney, where ancient ceremonial grandeur and intricate artistry reveal 5,000 years of history.
Essential places to dine
The Skerries Restaurant
5.0 km
Experience exquisite local seafood with breathtaking views at The Skerries Restaurant by Loch of Harray in Orkney’s tranquil natural setting.
Adam's Place
6.7 km
Fresh local seafood and an acclaimed wine list await you at Adam's Place, a cozy culinary highlight on Stromness’s waterfront.
Julia's Cafe Bistro
6.7 km
Cozy cafe in Stromness offering freshly made rolls with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Ferry Inn Stromness
6.8 km
A cozy, historic inn on Stromness harbour offering hearty local cuisine and warm hospitality just steps from the ferry terminal.
The Hamnavoe Restaurant
7.1 km
A cozy, historic Stromness restaurant serving innovative seasonal dishes blending Orkney seafood with European and Asian flavors.
Leigh's Real Taste of Orkney
10.6 km
Discover Orkney’s finest takeaway flavors at Leigh's, where local produce meets generous portions and friendly service in Finstown.
Eviedale Bistro & Bakehouse
14.4 km
Orkney's pioneering sourdough bakery and wood-fired pizzeria, where artisanal craft meets island hospitality.
The Foveran
18.1 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
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.
Happy Haddock
19.6 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Busters Diner
19.6 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
19.6 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Helgi's
19.6 km
A vibrant harbourfront gastropub blending Orkney’s Viking heritage with fresh local fare and lively community spirit.
Lucano
19.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
The Orkney Hotel
19.7 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Waterfront Gallery
7.1 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and local artistry at Waterfront Gallery, a cultural gem in the heart of Stromness.
Cream
7.1 km
Explore Cream in Stromness for unique gifts, local art, and a taste of Orkney's creativity.
Vintage Paper Co
7.3 km
Discover handmade papers, artisanal bookbinding, and unique stationery in the heart of Stromness at Vintage Paper Co.
Heksmoar
9.9 km
A charming craft shop in Stromness showcasing handcrafted Orcadian textiles, ceramics, jewellery and art in a warm, welcoming space.
Orkney Antique Centre
10.3 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through a captivating collection of antiques in the historic former community centre of Birsay.
Woolshed
14.2 km
Discover authentic Orkney woolcraft at The Woolshed, a historic knit shop and workshop set amidst stunning island landscapes.
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.
Judith Glue
19.6 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
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.
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
19.7 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
19.7 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
19.7 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Poundstretcher
19.7 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
18.6 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
19.5 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Oot The Back
19.5 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Auld Motor Hoose
19.6 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
19.6 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
19.7 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.
Highland Park Bar
19.7 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
19.7 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The West End Guest House
19.7 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Torvhaug
19.7 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
29.4 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
43.4 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
45.1 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Belsair
45.8 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
Peerie Cafe
48.3 km
Experience delightful flavors and breathtaking views at Peerie Cafe, your cozy retreat by the Thurso harbor.
