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St Magnus Cathedral

4.7
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

Britain's most northerly cathedral, a 12th-century marvel of red sandstone and Viking heritage.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Friedhof und Aussenfront

St Magnus Cathedral

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Britain's most northerly cathedral, a 12th-century marvel of red sandstone and Viking heritage.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"The red sandstone is awesome, and the craftsmanship is just unreal considering it was built in the 1100s."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Roof Tour Essential

Book the roof tour for incredible views & history! Highly recommended by visitors . 🎟️

🚶‍♀️ Wander & Reflect

Take your time to explore quiet corners and appreciate the peaceful, solemn atmosphere . :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 2,084 reviews

Type

Church

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Romanesque Architecture

Romanesque Architecture

Main Nave

Marvel at the striking red sandstone and intricate craftsmanship of this 12th-century masterpiece, a blend of Norse and Romanesque styles.

Viking Heritage

Viking Heritage

Throughout the Cathedral

Discover the enduring influence of Orkney's Nordic past in the cathedral's design and historical narratives.

Cathedral Roof Tour

Cathedral Roof Tour

Bell Tower

Ascend to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of Kirkwall and learn fascinating history from knowledgeable guides .

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History

Built in the 12th century, St Magnus Cathedral is a testament to Viking and Norse heritage. Don't miss the chance to explore its ancient sandstone walls and soak in centuries of history. Consider a roof tour for unparalleled views and insights.Reddit

Timing is Key

While beautiful year-round, visiting outside peak cruise ship times can offer a more serene experience. Check local event schedules, as installations like 'The Sun' can add a unique dimension to your visit.Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon (post-cruise ship)
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

CLANS OF SCOTLAND ⚔️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 In the annals of Scottish history, a tale as ancient as the mist-shrouded glens unfolds, a tale of kinship, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Highlands. Here, amidst the beautiful landscapes of Scotland, the tradition of clans emerged, weaving together Celtic, Norman-French, and Norse threads into a rich tapestry of heritage. At the heart of this tradition lie...
@nicohutcheon
324.6K likes • 5.3M views

🎯 Roof Tour Essential

Book the roof tour for incredible views & history! Highly recommended by visitors.Reddit 🎟️

🚶‍♀️ Wander & Reflect

Take your time to explore quiet corners and appreciate the peaceful, solemn atmosphere.Reddit :camerawithflash:

she’s back and she’s in a giant church #slay #glasgowcathedral #gothic #gothicstyle #gothiccathedral #kolncathedral #gothicarchitecture #glasgow
@emmafinnerty
38.6K likes • 224.4K views
Took this vid just after the Ba was thrown in opposite the Mercat Cross outside St Magnus Cathedral. #kirkwallba #theba #kirkwall #newyear #uppies #doonies
orkneyuncovered
439 likes • 93.7K views

☀️ Check for Events

Special installations like 'The Sun' can enhance your visit.Instagram

🤝 Friendly Staff

Staff are helpful and informative, ready to answer your questions.Reddit :speech_balloon:

Our latest drone capture of the stunning St. Magnus Cathedral in Orkney showcases how technology can bring historic landmarks to life like never before. At Archilink Surveying, we provide detailed, high-resolution aerial surveys and 3D models to help architects and designers bring their projects to the next level. Whether you're preserving history or designing for the future, our cutting-edge te...
archilink_surveys
21 likes • 842 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Roof Tour Essential

Book the roof tour for incredible views & history! Highly recommended by visitors.Reddit 🎟️

🚶‍♀️ Wander & Reflect

Take your time to explore quiet corners and appreciate the peaceful, solemn atmosphere.Reddit :camerawithflash:

☀️ Check for Events

Special installations like 'The Sun' can enhance your visit.Instagram

🤝 Friendly Staff

Staff are helpful and informative, ready to answer your questions.Reddit :speech_balloon:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise St Magnus Cathedral for its breathtaking red sandstone architecture, deep historical significance, and peaceful atmosphere. Many highlight the informative roof tour as a must-do for its stunning views and engaging history. While some note it's smaller than other cathedrals, its unique Viking heritage and well-preserved state leave a lasting impression.

"St Magnus Cathedral is one of those places that quietly takes your breath away. The red sandstone is awesome, and the craftsmanship is just unreal considering it was built in the 1100s. You don’t need to be religious to feel the history here, it’s peaceful, solemn, and beautifully preserved. I loved wandering through the quiet corners and noticing the Viking touches in the architecture. If you are visiting Kirkwall this is absolutely worth your time."

Kristen

"A small,compact wonderful cathedral that was central to life in Kirkwall since been built in the 12th century and it still dominates the skyline 800yrs later . We took the Cathedral roof tour which is very recommended as you got an hour long tour right to the top of the bell tower by a very knowledgable guide who told us lots of history and fables about the cathedral while showing some of the relics that cant be put on display in the main body of the cathedral , we also got to go outside for some greast views over Kirkwall . The catghedral is a must visit when in the town and will leave a lasting impression ."

Tork Mackenzie

"We have visited here before and have had a similar amazing experience. The Cathedral is such a lovely place full of history and my partner has relatives buried here so we always come here to pay our respects. The church records staff are very helpful and the detached community centre hosts information sessions. Visit here if you are in Kirkwall."

Mark C

What People Like

Stunning red sandstone
Rich history and Viking heritage
Peaceful and solemn atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be busy with cruise ships

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St Magnus Cathedral is centrally located in Kirkwall, Orkney. If you're arriving by ferry or plane to Orkney, you can take a local bus or taxi to Kirkwall. The cathedral is easily walkable once you are in the town center.TikTok

There is typically street parking available in Kirkwall, though it can be limited, especially during peak tourist season. Consider using public transport or walking if possible.Reddit

Yes, St Magnus Cathedral is a key attraction in Kirkwall and can easily be visited as part of a day trip to the Orkney mainland, especially if arriving by ferry.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening times can vary, especially for services or special events. It's best to check the official St Magnus Cathedral website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on visitor hours.TikTok

While entry to the main body of the cathedral is often free, donations are greatly appreciated to help with its upkeep. Special tours, like the roof tour, usually have a fee.Reddit

For general entry, booking is usually not required. However, for popular tours like the roof tour, it's highly recommended to book in advance to secure your spot.Reddit

Yes, guided tours are often available, particularly the highly recommended roof tour which offers historical insights and great views.Reddit Inquire upon arrival or check their website for schedules.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find impressive red sandstone architecture, Viking-influenced designs, memorial stones, and a peaceful, solemn atmosphere. The cathedral is rich in history and offers a glimpse into Orkney's past.InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The unique architecture, the play of light on the sandstone, and the historical details make it a fantastic spot for photography.Instagram+1 Remember to be respectful of ongoing services.

St Magnus Cathedral is an active place of worship. Information on services can usually be found on their website or by contacting the cathedral directly.Instagram

The distinctive red sandstone is a key feature of St Magnus Cathedral, contributing to its unique visual appeal and highlighting its construction in the 12th century.Reddit

Occasionally, St Magnus Cathedral hosts special installations, such as 'The Sun' exhibition, which can offer a unique contemporary art experience within the historic setting.Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Kirkwall has several cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering local cuisine. You'll find options within easy walking distance of the cathedral for a meal or a coffee break.Reddit

It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the main sanctuary of the cathedral to preserve its atmosphere and cleanliness. There are usually designated areas or nearby cafes.

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior, with its imposing red sandstone, is stunning. Inside, focus on architectural details, stained glass (if any), and the play of light. The roof tour offers incredible panoramic shots of Kirkwall.Instagram+1

Photography for personal use is usually permitted, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the interior and avoid disturbing visitors or services. Always check for signage or ask staff.

Drone usage is typically restricted around historic buildings and in populated areas due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.Instagram

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