Stromness

Travel Guide

A cobblestone street with historic stone buildings, a clock tower, and a sign for The Stromness Hotel.
A coastal town with stone buildings and a red boat in the water.
A narrow stone alleyway with red doors and windows.
A coastal town with stone buildings, a lifeboat station, and a moored boat.
A harbor with several boats docked, a stone wall, and buildings in the background.

Spend time in Stromness to explore its museums, art centers, local distilleries, scenic walks, and nearby archaeological sites.

Stromness is an ideal destination for culture and beach travelers. You can explore the Stromness Museum, which showcases natural history, and visit the Piers Art Centre, known for its diverse art exhibitions. For a moment of reflection, the John Rae Memorial Statue stands as a testament to history. Additionally, you can enjoy activities at the Stromness Golf Club, while nearby, several distilleries, such as Highland Park Distillery, Scapa Distillery, and Orkney Brewery, offer insights into local craftsmanship. The natural beauty of the area is complemented by scenic footpaths like Riverside Walk and Victoria Walk, located nearby.

While you're in Stromness, consider exploring some of its interesting nearby areas. Quoyloo and Stenness are known for their cultural and scenic experiences, with Stenness featuring the significant archaeological site of Maes Howe. Another nearby area, Hoy Island, is recognized for outdoor family experiences and boasts attractions like the Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and the Old Man of Hoy, a striking rock formation. These nearby places offer a glimpse into the rich history and stunning landscapes that surround Stromness.

The best time to visit Stromness is from June to September, when the weather is cool, mostly dry, and often cloudy. During these months, you can enjoy outdoor activities without the worry of heavy rain. Visitor demand remains fairly steady throughout the year, but it tends to be a little busier in April and from June to July. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the months of October to December, when you can explore the area with fewer crowds.

The Stromness Hotel

The Stromness Hotel

2 out of 5
The Pierhead Stromness Scotland
$76 nightly
The price is $92 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$92 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Stromness. Enjoy free WiFi and housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Piers Art Centre and ...
6.8/10 (102 reviews)
"Arrived to find the door locked with a number to phone to arrange check in, once inside we discovered the foyer to be dirty and dated and in need of up grading, our room was dated and showed signs of dampness on the ceiling, we will not stay hear again and advise all travellers to stay clear"

Reviewed on Nov 2, 2026

The Stromness Hotel
Ferry Inn Stromness

Ferry Inn Stromness

3 out of 5
10 John Street, Orkney Stromness Scotland
Stay at this hotel in Stromness. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (183 reviews)
"Wonderful staff!"

Reviewed on Sep 29, 2026

Ferry Inn Stromness
The Royal Hotel Stromness

The Royal Hotel Stromness

3 out of 5
55-57 Victoria St Stromness Scotland
Book a stay at this golf inn in Stromness. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
The Royal Hotel Stromness
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
2 bedroom accommodation in Stromness

2 bedroom accommodation in Stromness

Stromness
Stay at this cottage in Stromness. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Ring of Brogdar and Stromness Ferry Terminal are located ...
2 bedroom accommodation in Stromness
Stromness Apartments

Stromness Apartments

3.5 out of 5
Milldam, Cauldhame Road, Orkney Stromness Scotland
Book a stay at this family-friendly apartment in Stromness. Enjoy free parking, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Stromness Ferry Terminal ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (31 reviews)
"Property was as expected. Very convenient for our 3 day stay."

Reviewed on Sep 24, 2026

Stromness Apartments
Withi-Gill - Bay of Ireland Views 50m From Beach

Withi-Gill - Bay of Ireland Views 50m From Beach

Stromness
Stay at this cottage in Stromness. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Standing Stones of Stenness and Maes Howe are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (2 reviews)
"Our host was brilliant at communicating and in the prep of the property for our arrival. Very welcoming experience, from the info about the property and the area prior our stay; including reaching out straight away to offer any suggestions, assistance, etc. AND fantastic local crafted treats awaiting ..."

Reviewed on Oct 12, 2026

Withi-Gill - Bay of Ireland Views 50m From Beach
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Stromness attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Stromness worth visiting?
Stromness is worth visiting for its unique historical attractions, including the ancient village of Skara Brae and the impressive Ring of Brogdar. Travelers can also find convenient local grocers for self-catering needs, making it easy to enjoy a longer stay.
When is the best time to visit Stromness?
The best time to visit Stromness is from June through October, when the climate is most favorable. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering a different experience with cooler weather.
What is Stromness known for?
Stromness is known for its ancient historical sites, including Skara Brae, a well-preserved Neolithic village, and the impressive Ring of Brogdar stone circle. Travelers can also explore Maes Howe, a significant prehistoric chambered cairn, all found in this United Kingdom city.
What is a good itinerary length for Stromness?
A good itinerary length for Stromness is two to three days to explore key highlights like Skara Brae, the Ring of Brogdar, and Maes Howe. An extended stay of four to five days allows travelers to enjoy more in-depth experiences, perhaps with a Historic Orkney Private Odyssey Tour, and delve deeper into the area's rich history. See Stromness Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Stromness?
Stromness offers a journey through ancient history and local culture, with many fascinating sites to explore:

  • Explore Skara Brae, a well-preserved prehistoric village.
  • Visit the ancient Ring of Brogdar, a monumental stone circle.
  • Discover Maes Howe, a remarkable Neolithic chambered cairn.
  • Take a Neolithic Orkney Full Day Guided Tour to experience the region's ancient past.
  • Browse the exhibits at Stromness Museum to learn about local history and maritime heritage.

How do I plan a trip to Stromness?
To plan your trip to Stromness, search for hotels and flights on Expedia. Book activities like Bespoke Private Guided Tours or a Cruise Ship Orkney Day Tour in advance. A rental car helps explore landmarks such as Skara Brae and the Ring of Brogdar. Always have indoor backups for outdoor plans, ensuring weather flexibility.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Stromness?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Stromness by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Stromness with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Stromness trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Stromness?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Stromness can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Stromness trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Stromness trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Stromness trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Stromness trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Stromness?
If it's your first trip to Stromness, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Stromness hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Stromness hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia