Orkney Aviation Museum
Explore millennia of Orkney's history, from Stone Age to Vikings and WWII, in a charming 1570s townhouse. Free entry!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Orkney Aviation Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore millennia of Orkney's history, from Stone Age to Vikings and WWII, in a charming 1570s townhouse. Free entry!
"A highly recommended and free way to spend a few hours highlighting Orkney's history from 5000 yrs ago to present."
Free Entry, Suggested Donation
Entry is free, but a £5 donation is suggested to support this amazing historical resource. :moneybag:
Interactive Viking Experience
Chat with 'Ragna,' an interactive Viking character, for a unique glimpse into life 1000 years ago. :viking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Viking Treasures
Orkney Museum
Discover incredible artifacts from Orkney's Viking era, including the famed Pierowall Viking sword.
Stone Age to Present Day
Orkney Museum
Explore millennia of Orkney's history, from prehistoric tools to exhibits on the oil industry.
Historic Townhouse Setting
Orkney Museum
Experience history within a beautifully preserved 1570s townhouse, complete with charming old floorboards.
Tranquil Rear Garden
Orkney Museum
A peaceful escape with a well-maintained garden, offering a lovely contrast to the museum's historical displays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big History
A Glimpse into Orkney's Soul
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry, Suggested Donation
Entry is free, but a £5 donation is suggested to support this amazing historical resource. :moneybag:
Interactive Viking Experience
Chat with 'Ragna,' an interactive Viking character, for a unique glimpse into life 1000 years ago. :viking:
Explore the Garden
Don't miss the beautiful and well-kept garden at the rear of the museum for a moment of tranquility. :seedling:
Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff
Staff are happy to chat and share insights about the exhibits and Orkney's history. :smiley:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry, Suggested Donation
Entry is free, but a £5 donation is suggested to support this amazing historical resource. :moneybag:
Interactive Viking Experience
Chat with 'Ragna,' an interactive Viking character, for a unique glimpse into life 1000 years ago. :viking:
Explore the Garden
Don't miss the beautiful and well-kept garden at the rear of the museum for a moment of tranquility. :seedling:
Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff
Staff are happy to chat and share insights about the exhibits and Orkney's history. :smiley:
Rich Historical Layers
From Stone Age to WWII and the oil industry, the museum covers an incredible span of Orkney's past. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Orkney Museum for its comprehensive and engaging presentation of the island's rich history, from ancient times to the present day. The free entry, coupled with the wealth of artifacts and the friendly, knowledgeable staff, makes it a highly recommended stop for anyone visiting Orkney. Some visitors noted the historic building might present minor accessibility challenges.
"A highly recommended and free way to spend a few hours in a wonderfully eclectic building highlighting Orkneys history from 5000 yrs ago right up to the present day , from prehistoric man to the vikings to the medieval earls to WW2 and to the oil industry of the 20th century each exhibit is beautifully laid out and described in detail with loads to see , hear and in the case of Ragna you can interact with a viking from a 1000yrs ago"
Tork Mackenzie
"A wonderful educational and esthetic tour of history, culture of Orkney. From stone age through Picts to Roman times. Many extraordinary items. Well worth your time."
Mark Mellinger
"Fantastic place. Lovely friendly staff had time to chat and explained about the history of exhibits. Incredible Bronze age, Iron age and Viking artifacts. All in a beautiful building with lovely old floorboards.
Wanted to see the Pierowall Viking sword. Saw it... wasn't disappointed. Well worth a visit, and see all Orkney history still alive and telling it's story."
Bernadette MacDonald-Wilson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Orkney Museum is located in Kirkwall, the main town on Orkney. If you're arriving by ferry or plane, you can take a local bus or taxi to the town center. The museum is easily walkable once you're in Kirkwall. Many visitors explore Kirkwall on foot after arriving. +1
Parking in Kirkwall can be limited, especially during peak times. There are several public car parks in the town center, a short walk from the museum. Consider using public transport or walking if possible.
Yes, the Orkney Museum is a great stop for a day trip to Kirkwall. It's centrally located and offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of Orkney's history, making it ideal for visitors with limited time. +1
Kirkwall is a charming town to wander. Visit St. Magnus Cathedral, explore local shops like Grooves Records, and enjoy the general atmosphere. Many visitors find it a pleasant place for a stroll. +3
The museum is right in the heart of Kirkwall, close to St. Magnus Cathedral, the Bishop's Palace, and the Earl's Palace. These historical sites offer a fantastic complement to your museum visit. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Orkney Museum offers free admission to all visitors. However, they do suggest a donation of around £5 to help with the upkeep and preservation of their extensive collections.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check the official Orkney Museum website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Orkney Museum due to its free entry policy. You can usually just walk in during opening hours.
Visiting on weekday afternoons, especially outside of peak tourist season, tends to be less crowded. Early mornings can also be quieter.
Yes, donations are highly encouraged and greatly appreciated. A suggested donation of £5 helps the museum continue its work preserving Orkney's heritage.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum boasts a diverse range of exhibits covering Orkney's history from the Stone Age, Pictish and Viking periods, through medieval times, to WWII and the modern oil industry. You'll find extraordinary artifacts and relics. +2
Yes, the museum is very engaging for children, with interactive elements like the 'Ragna' Viking character and a wide array of fascinating objects that spark curiosity about history.
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the museum thoroughly and appreciate the exhibits. Some may spend longer if they delve deeply into specific periods.
Absolutely! The museum features interactive displays, including the chance to interact with a Viking character named Ragna, offering a unique educational experience.
The museum is housed in a historic building, which may present some challenges. While efforts are made to accommodate visitors, it's advisable to contact the museum directly regarding specific accessibility needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the Orkney Museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask a staff member. Flash photography might be restricted to protect artifacts.
The Viking artifacts, the historic townhouse architecture, and the tranquil rear garden all offer great photographic opportunities. The Pierowall Viking sword is a particularly iconic subject.
Yes, Kirkwall itself offers many photo opportunities, including the stunning St. Magnus Cathedral and the charming streets. The view from the Bishop's Palace tower is also excellent.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Orkney's Rich Historical Tapestry
The narrative continues through the medieval period, highlighting the influence of the Earls of Orkney, with displays detailing their lives and governance. The museum also doesn't shy away from more recent history, featuring exhibits on Orkney's role in World War II, including its strategic importance and the experiences of its people. Finally, it brings the story up to the 20th century and beyond, with insights into the development of the oil industry and its impact on the islands. This comprehensive approach ensures that every visitor can find a period of history that resonates with them.
What truly sets the Orkney Museum apart is its presentation. Housed within a beautifully preserved 1570s townhouse, the exhibits are thoughtfully laid out, making the journey through time both educational and aesthetically pleasing. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer further insights, enhancing the visitor experience. The inclusion of interactive elements, such as the chance to engage with a Viking character, makes history come alive for all ages.
Exploring Kirkwall: Beyond the Museum
Adjacent to the cathedral are the Bishop's Palace and the Earl's Palace. The Bishop's Palace, a 12th-century structure with a 16th-century tower, offers panoramic views of the cathedral and town rooftops. The Earl's Palace, a grand 17th-century ruin, speaks to the power and influence of Orkney's historical rulers. Exploring these sites provides a deeper understanding of Kirkwall's strategic and political importance throughout history.
Kirkwall also boasts unique local businesses, such as Grooves Records, noted as the most remote record shop in the UK, offering a different kind of cultural immersion. Wandering through the town's streets, you'll discover charming shops, cafes, and a palpable sense of history. The town's atmosphere, especially during events like the Ba' game, offers a vibrant glimpse into Orkney traditions.
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