Stromness

Travel Guide

Stromness featuring a coastal town and a bay or harbor
Stromness
Stromness showing a lake or waterhole and boating
Stromness showing a hotel and a square or plaza
Stromness showing rocky coastline and tranquil scenes

The quaint, winding streets of Stromness are home to captivating museums and galleries, compelling historic landmarks and stunning natural views.

The main seaport for Orkney Mainland, Stromness is a charming, characterful town. Historic stone buildings line the quay and seem to grow out of the hillside beyond the waterfront. Stroll around the attractive port and the surrounding town to discover its fascinating history and lively culture.

Stromness was originally named Hamnavoe, which means “safe haven.” Vikings, tradesmen and sailors found shelter from the seas here as they navigated around Britain. The town often served as the last port of call for transatlantic services. Learn about how each group left its mark at the Stromness Museum, which documents the natural and social history of the area.

Browse British art at the Pier Arts Centre, a sleek modern gallery overlooking the quay. The center features a large collection of contemporary paintings from the 20th century, as well as a program of visiting exhibitions.

Enjoy the wild landscapes and seascapes that surround Stromness and choose from a wide range of outdoor activities. Dive down to the shipwrecks at Scapa Flow on a scuba tour, rent a bike or explore the hills and coastal paths outside the town on foot.

The Orkney Islands are rich in historical landmarks. Find prehistoric sites just a short drive away from Stromness. The Neolithic stone circles at the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness set amid spectacular landscapes exude an air of mystery. Walk through the past at Skara Brae, a prehistoric village featuring the beautifully preserved remains of ancient houses more than 5,000 years old.

Travel to Stromness by ferry for the most rewarding vistas of the town. Boats leave from Scrabster and cruise around the coastline of the archipelago. Stromness is 19 miles (30 kilometers) away from Kirkwall Airport.

Summer in Stromness offers long days that stay light well into the evening. Arrange your visit for May to witness the traditional music and dance events of the Orkney Folk Festival.

Stromness Apartments

Stromness Apartments

3.5 out of 5
Milldam, Cauldhame Road, Orkney, Stromness, Scotland
Stay at this 3.5-star apartment in Stromness. Enjoy free parking, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Stromness Ferry Terminal and Piers Art ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (23 reviews)
"An awesome place!"

Reviewed on May 20, 2025

Stromness Apartments
Harbour Cottage

Harbour Cottage

3.5 out of 5
Ferry Road, Stromness, Scotland
Stay at this 3.5-star cottage in Stromness. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and Netflix. Popular attractions Stromness Ferry Terminal and Piers Art Centre are ...
"We loved the cottage. It was perfect in every way and David was a great host, even helping us with our bags from the ferry."

Reviewed on Oct 19, 2024

Harbour Cottage
Withi-gill - Cottage - Bay of Ireland Views

Withi-gill - Cottage - Bay of Ireland Views

3 out of 5
Stromness
Stay at this 3-star cottage in Stromness. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Stromness Ferry Terminal and Standing Stones of Stenness ...
Withi-gill - Cottage - Bay of Ireland Views
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.

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