Things to do in Stromness

The Dunnet Head Lighthouse is located on the northernmost point of the Scottish mainland, perched on dramatic cliffs that plummet 300 feet (90 meters) into the turbulent Pentland Firth below. Drive or make the rewarding coastal hike up to this scenic viewpoint and enjoy vistas stretching over the sea to Orkney.

Learn about prehistoric life at Skara Brae, a small settlement that, despite being thousands of years old, still retains its original shape and structure. The buildings here form one of the best preserved sites of its kind in the British Isles. The layout of the ancient village is still intact, with several of the houses even displaying their original furnishings.

Discover ancient history at the Standing Stones of Stenness. This collection of monoliths forms one of the oldest henge sites in the British Isles and is an ideal starting point to explore the prehistoric legacy of the Orkney Islands. The stunning landscape and diverse wildlife provide additional appeal to this iconic Orcadian landmark.

The Ring of Brodgar is both an enigmatic historical attraction and an area of spectacular natural beauty. Here, 27 standing stones form a perfect circle with a diameter of about 340 feet (104 meters). Examine the UNESCO-listed site, which sits amid the rolling hills and tranquil lochs of the Orkney Mainland.

Maes Howe is among Europe’s finest Neolithic burial chambers. Built around 3,000 B.C., this mysterious structure features remarkably sophisticated stonework. Take a tour of the tomb’s interior and admire its massive sandstones, as well as the intriguing runic graffiti that was added thousands of years after its construction.