Stromness

Erected in memory of Orcadian Explorer Dr John Rae, who discovered the fate of Sir John Franklin’s lost 1845 expedition to the Arctic. Rae is also credited as having found the final portion of the North West Passage. He is buried in the cemetery at St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, with his statue overlooking the harbour front at Stromness.

Founded by the Orkney Natural History Society in 1837, Stromness Museum tells the stories of Orcadians at home and abroad. In addition to housing the most extensive natural history collection in the islands, the museum is packed with a fascinating variety of artefacts and objects spanning thousands of years. Highlights include unique displays about the life and work of explorer Dr John Rae and an amazing array of items recovered from the German High Seas Fleet after it was scuttled in Scapa Flow. Small admission fee.

Marking the westerly entrance to Stromness, with wonderful views across to the island of Hoy and the turbulent waters of Hoy Sound.

Ness Battery was a crucial element of the defences of the western entrance to Scapa Flow, the main fleet base for the Royal Navy in both World Wars. Several of the original wooden huts, which formed the accommodation camp, are still intact, and in one of these is a painted mural covering three walls, depicting rural English scenes. An extensive programme of stabilisation and renovation was completed in 2012 and the site is now open for guided tours.

Guided tours by arrangement only - call 00 44 7759 857298 or email: [email protected]

The Pier Arts Centre is a Visit Scotland five star Art Gallery and Museum situated in the town’s Victoria Street, close to the harbour. Established in 1979 to provide a home for an important collection of British fine art donated by the author, peace activist and philanthropist Margaret Gardiner, the Centre also curates a year round programme of changing exhibitions and events for the education and enjoyment of the general public.

A very popular links course with a stunning setting overlooking the Hills of Hoy and Warbeth Beach. Non-members welcome.

All facilities to be found within one buidling at Stromness Pier. Archive on the Hudson bay company and the history of the growth of the town of Stromness. Free wifi.

Dedicated to the Stromness born writer and poet George Mackay Brown – and maintained by local volunteers - the garden is situated opposite Stromness Golf Club and Bowling Green.