Things to do in Stenness

Activities, attractions and tours

Maes Howe featuring tranquil scenes
Maes Howe which includes heritage elements and art
Standing Stones of Stenness showing tranquil scenes, heritage elements and a monument
Standing Stones of Stenness which includes general coastal views, tranquil scenes and heritage elements
Standing Stones of Stenness featuring cycling, a monument and heritage elements
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Top places to visit

1. Skara Brae

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.
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Skara Brae which includes heritage architecture and heritage elements

2. Standing Stones of Stenness

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.
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Standing Stones of Stenness which includes general coastal views, heritage elements and tranquil scenes

3. Ring of Brogdar

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.
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Ring of Brogdar which includes a monument and heritage elements as well as a small group of people

4. St. Magnus Cathedral

St. Magnus Cathedral is among Orkney’s most recognizable and striking landmarks. Known as the “Light in the North,” this medieval cathedral dominates the skyline of Kirkwall. Inside are memorials to a number of prominent Orcadians. Take a guided tour of the building’s upper levels for wonderful views over the cathedral itself and the surrounding landscape.
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St. Magnus Cathedral which includes a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and heritage elements

5. Old Man of Hoy

An imposing 450-foot (137-meter) high rock stack located off the island’s western coast, the Old Man of Hoy is one of Orkney’s most recognizable landmarks and a popular challenge for experienced climbers. The stack can also be viewed by following the pleasant footpath from nearby Rackwick. Stroll along this picturesque path and enjoy spellbinding views over Rackwick Bay.
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Old Man of Hoy featuring rocky coastline

6. Maes Howe

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.
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Maes Howe featuring heritage elements and interior views

What to do in Stenness

Popular places to visit

Skara Brae which includes heritage architecture and heritage elements

Skara Brae

Discover the secrets of Orkney’s earliest inhabitants and find out what life was like during prehistoric times at this beautifully preserved ancient village.

Skara Brae
Ring of Brogdar which includes a monument and heritage elements as well as a small group of people

Ring of Brogdar

Delve into the mysteries of this prehistoric landmark, comprising a ring of standing stones set against the wild landscape of the Orkney Islands.

Ring of Brogdar
Maes Howe featuring heritage elements and interior views

Maes Howe

Part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site, this fascinating chambered tomb predates the Egyptian pyramids.

Maes Howe
Stromness featuring a bay or harbor, a sandy beach and tranquil scenes

Bay of Skaill

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Bay of Skaill during your travels in Stromness. Stroll along the marina or experience the area's museums.

Bay of Skaill

Stromness Ferry Terminal

Explore the waterfront in Stromness with a trip to Stromness Ferry Terminal. Discover the area's hot springs and countryside.

Stromness Ferry Terminal

Piers Art Centre

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Piers Art Centre in Stromness. Stroll along the marina or discover the area's hot springs.

Piers Art Centre

Stromness Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Stromness Museum during your trip to Stromness. You can enjoy the bars while in the area.

Stromness Museum

Barony Mill

Find out about the history of Stromness when you spend time at Barony Mill. Stroll along the marina or experience the area's museums.

Barony Mill

Frequently asked questions

Is Stenness worth visiting?
Known for its history and coastal beaches, finding fun things to do in Stenness is a breeze. Be sure to add Stromness Museum to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Stenness?
Start your adventures with a visit to Stromness Museum and Skara Brae. Then, explore other parts of Stenness for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Stenness?
You can't go home without checking out Stromness Museum, rated the top tourist attraction in Stenness.
Is three days enough to stay in Stenness?
You can easily tick off popular sights like Stromness Museum, Ring of Brogdar and Maes Howe with a three-day stay in Stenness. On average, many travelers book three days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a while longer and venture to Thurso.
What are some activities to do in Stenness with kids?
Planning what to do in Stenness with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're vacationing with teenagers or little ones, there are lots of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Stenness for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Stenness, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Barony Mill.
Are there free things to do in Stenness?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around exciting neighborhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Stenness. If you're in need of ideas, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. Stromness Museum is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their traveling adventures.