Skara Brae
Step back 5,000 years at Skara Brae, a remarkably preserved Neolithic village older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Skara Brae
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back 5,000 years at Skara Brae, a remarkably preserved Neolithic village older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids.
"Older than the Pyramid and Stonehenge, come and visit Skara Brae with me. A 5000 year old village on Orkney."
Book Skara Brae tickets early
:admission_tickets: Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
Wear sturdy shoes
:athletic_shoe: The site involves walking on uneven ground; comfortable footwear is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Neolithic Village
Main archaeological site
Step back 5,000 years into Europe's best-preserved Neolithic village. Marvel at the remarkably intact stone houses.
House 7 Reconstruction
Adjacent to the main site
A full-scale reconstruction of a Skara Brae house, offering a tangible glimpse into prehistoric domestic life.
Visitor Centre Exhibition
Entrance area
Discover fascinating artifacts and an introductory film that sets the scene for this ancient settlement.
Skaill Beach
Adjacent to Skara Brae
A beautiful, windswept beach offering stunning coastal views and a peaceful contrast to the ancient ruins.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Embrace the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Skara Brae tickets early
:admission_tickets: Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
Wear sturdy shoes
:athletic_shoe: The site involves walking on uneven ground; comfortable footwear is essential.
Dress for Orkney weather
:cloud: Pack layers and waterproofs – it can be windy and wet, even in summer.
Utilize the reconstruction
:house: House 7 reconstruction offers a great insight into daily life.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Skara Brae tickets early
:admission_tickets: Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
Wear sturdy shoes
:athletic_shoe: The site involves walking on uneven ground; comfortable footwear is essential.
Dress for Orkney weather
:cloud: Pack layers and waterproofs – it can be windy and wet, even in summer.
Utilize the reconstruction
:house: House 7 reconstruction offers a great insight into daily life.
Combine with Skaill House
:camerawithflash: Visit the nearby Skaill House for a fuller historical experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Skara Brae for its incredible preservation and historical significance, calling it a 'fantastic historical site' and a 'huge amount of archaeological interest.' The visitor centre and House 7 reconstruction are highlighted as excellent aids to understanding the ancient village. Some reviewers note that the site can get crowded, and the walk to the ruins can be a bit long.
"Huge amount of archaeological interest. Well preserved and organised by Historic Scotland.. Well worth the effort. An excellent introductory film and thoughtful walk displays. You need to walk past the mock up of one of the village houses but do look as it’s really helpful to set the scene. A longish walk then to the site. Well preserved and signed. Worth the effort"
Andrew C
"Incredible archaeological site on the doorstep of Skaill House. This fragile site has remarkable structures dating to 3100BCE. The on site reconstruction helps deepen our understanding of how the site was used when occupied. Information boards dotted throughout the site further add to understanding the site. Way too many people walking around ruins. Visitor information center was good too. 👍👍👍"
D F
"Fantastic historical site! Stone age, oldest habitat for Neolithic man settlement in Europe. So much to explain on this site. If you are visiting the Oakney islands you must come over."
John Shaw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Skara Brae is located on the Orkney Mainland. You can reach it by car, bus, or as part of an organized tour. The scenic bus route from Kirkwall or Stromness is a popular and easy option, with stops at other historical sites like the Ring of Brodgar. Parking is available on-site.
Yes, public buses frequently run to Skara Brae from Kirkwall and Stromness. It's a convenient way to travel and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Many visitors opt for a rental car for flexibility, but the bus system is efficient for reaching Skara Brae and other key sites. Organized tours are also a great option if you prefer not to drive.
Skara Brae is approximately 15 miles (24 km) west of Kirkwall, the main town on Orkney. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes.
While you can walk to Skara Brae from nearby accommodations or parking areas, it's a significant distance from the main towns of Kirkwall or Stromness. The site itself involves a short walk from the visitor centre to the ruins.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for Skara Brae. It's advisable to check the official Historic Scotland website for current prices and to book tickets in advance, especially during busy periods.
While some visitors have managed to purchase tickets on the day, booking Skara Brae tickets ahead of time is highly recommended to guarantee entry and avoid potential queues.
Opening hours for Skara Brae vary seasonally. Always check the official Historic Scotland website for the most accurate and up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Skara Brae is managed by Historic Scotland. Consider purchasing a Historic Scotland Explorer Pass if you plan to visit multiple of their sites across Scotland, which can offer cost savings.
No, an entrance ticket is required to access the Skara Brae archaeological site and visitor centre. Tickets can be purchased online or at the site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Skara Brae features a remarkably preserved Neolithic village with eight stone houses, connected by covered passageways. You'll also find a visitor centre with an exhibition and a reconstruction of House 7.
A typical visit to Skara Brae, including the visitor centre, exhibition, and exploring the site, takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Yes, Skara Brae is fascinating for all ages. The visitor centre's film and the tangible nature of the ancient houses can capture children's imaginations.
The House 7 reconstruction is a full-scale replica of one of the ancient dwellings, allowing visitors to step inside and visualize how people lived 5,000 years ago.
While there isn't always a formal guided tour, information boards are placed throughout the site to explain its history and significance. Staff are also available to answer questions.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted at Skara Brae for personal use. However, tripods and flash photography may be restricted in certain areas, especially inside the visitor centre or reconstruction. Always check on-site signage.
The view of the clustered stone houses from the designated pathways is iconic. The reconstruction of House 7 also offers great photographic opportunities. The adjacent Skaill Beach provides beautiful coastal backdrops.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at archaeological sites like Skara Brae to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. Always check with the site management before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon light can offer softer, more dramatic lighting for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but the unique stone structures still photograph well.
While personal cameras are fine, large professional equipment or extensive lighting setups might require special permission. Stick to handheld cameras and phones for ease.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
The artifacts on display in the visitor centre are crucial for understanding the material culture of the time. Consider dedicating ample time to absorb the information and appreciate the significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. 🚶 Day-Trippers from Mainland Scotland
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Discovery of Skara Brae
For millennia, this ancient village lay hidden, preserved beneath sand dunes on the coast of Orkney. Its dramatic discovery in 1850 was triggered by a severe storm that stripped away the sand, revealing the stone structures. The village consists of eight clustered stone houses, connected by low, covered passageways. Each house features a central hearth and a range of stone-built furniture, including beds, shelves, and dressers.
+1 The sophistication of the Skara Brae architecture and the presence of functional elements like drainage systems highlight the advanced understanding of construction and community living among these early people. The artifacts found at Skara Brae, such as pottery, tools, and personal ornaments, further illuminate their daily routines, social structures, and artistic expressions. The mystery of Skara Brae continues to intrigue historians and archaeologists. While its exact purpose and the reasons for its eventual abandonment remain subjects of debate, the site stands as a testament to human ingenuity and resilience.
Exploring Skara Brae: What to Expect
From the visitor centre, a short walk leads you to the main archaeological site. You'll follow a designated path that winds around the Skara Brae houses, offering stunning views of the remarkably preserved stone structures. The Skara Brae architecture is fascinating, with its semi-subterranean design and built-in furniture. Information boards are strategically placed to explain the function of different areas and the significance of the findings.
A highlight for many is the reconstruction of House 7, a full-scale replica that allows you to step inside and experience what a dwelling might have felt like. This provides a crucial perspective on the scale and layout of the homes.
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