Things to do in Stenness

Activities, attractions and tours

This is a photo of scheduled monument number
Photo by Stevekeiretsu (page does not exist) (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0)
This is a photo of scheduled monument number
Photo by Stevekeiretsu (page does not exist) (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0)
A ring of Neolithic standing stones on Orkney forming part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Photo by Schwerdf (Creative Commons Attribution 4.0)
A stone near the Standing Stones of Stenness on Orkney, but separate from the ring.
Photo by Schwerdf (Creative Commons Attribution 4.0)
Asentamiento de Barnhouse. Edad del Bronce. Islas Orcadas
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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 a house, interior views and heritage elements

2. 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 showing heritage elements, a monument and tranquil scenes

3. Earl's Palace

With only a two-story section left standing, the Earl’s Palace lies mostly in ruins today, but it was once considered to be one of Scotland’s most remarkable Renaissance buildings. Discover the remnants of the palace’s beautiful entrance decorations and step inside to see its spectacular fireplace.
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Earl\'s Palace which includes building ruins, a castle and heritage architecture

4. 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 a monument, general coastal views and heritage elements

5. 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 which includes tranquil scenes

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What to do in Stenness

Popular places to visit

Skara Brae showing heritage elements and heritage architecture

Skara Brae

4.5/5(22 reviews)

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 heritage elements and a monument as well as a small group of people

Ring of Brogdar

4.5/5(6 reviews)

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 showing interior views and heritage elements

Maes Howe

5/5(5 reviews)

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

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

Bay of Skaill

4.5/5(6 reviews)

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

4/5(16 reviews)

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

Stromness Ferry Terminal

Stromness Museum

4.5/5(7 reviews)

You can spend time studying the exhibits at 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

Piers Art Centre

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

Piers Art Centre

 

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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 travellers 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 holidaying 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 neighbourhoods, 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 travelling adventures.