Stenness is right in the middle of some wonderful ancient and historical sites and also sits on the southern tip of Loch Harray reputedly the best trout waters in the world.

For example we can see the Ring of Brodgar, a circle of sixty stones around half of which still stand as they did all those years ago. Wouldn't it be great if we could find out for what and for why they exist at all. Perhaps if we knew that one they woudn't be such a mysterious attraction for that is just what they are.

The standing Stones of Stenness recorded as 3000B.C. another wonder left for our amazement and the nearby Barnhouse Neolithic Village adjudged to have been the dwellings of the builders of the other two sites are there to tease our imaginations.

At Maes Howe what is believed to be a tomb consisting of a number of chambers dating from around 2500- 3000 B.C. is another mind boggling attraction. We do know however that the Vikings used the chambers for some of their more romantic or even naughty adventures for like most uneducated males their braggings were inscribed on the walls of the chambers and still they remain there for us to see.

Orkney's last major battle was fought at nearby Summerdale when the men of the islands defeated an army under the command of the Earl of Caithness. The usual tax rebellion, which seem to permeate throughout British history, even down to recent times and I think of the poll tax, which our great and mighty never seem to learn from, was the reason on this occasion for James V to let the locals see who was boss. Unfortunately he was to be taught a sharp lesson at the hands of the islanders for his stupidity.

For the anglers this is great fishing country and it's free. The walks are exhilarating with much in the way of wildlife and plantlife to take in. Golf is available at the nearby courses of Kirkwall and Stromness where a challenging round is on offer for those who like to beat up the wee white ball. Cycling is a good relaxing way to move around the island if you want to explore the more isolated parts.

Travel is by bus or car.
For the tourists from abroad the nearest airports are Kirkwall and on by bus or taxi. Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness and Wick all have services to Kirkwall.

Ferries to the Island are via the port of Stromness and on by bus or taxi. Scrabster near Thurso and Aberdeen both have sailings to Stromness.

A Tourist Board Brochure is freely available from this site.

Comments or photos to improve this page most welcome.

back to top

Hom

e