Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

Dating back more than 5,000 years, this fine chambered tomb is a prominent feature in the landscape near the lochs of Harray and Stenness. Said to be the finest Neolithic building in Europe, the tomb is famously aligned with the setting of the winter sun, and contains an exceptional collection of later Norse runic inscriptions, as well as neolithic carvings. Access is by guided tour only, with timed ticketing in operation. You must telephone to book. Car parking and tickets are available from the nearby Tormiston Mill. • 9m W of Kirkwall on the A965 • Open all year • Booking in advance is required • Admissions: Adult £5.20 Child £2.60 Concessions £4.20 • VisitScotland grading ★★★★

What's On @ Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

Exhibition

Operation: Broken Feather

6 May 2025 - 20 Sept 2025

Special Agent Corncrake has been compiling an urgent report into just who can save the corncrake. Unfortunately, the return flight from her migration was a dangerous road and she had to take precautions to make sure the report didn’t fall into the wrong hands. She has now gone into hiding and needs your help to piece together the missing parts of her report and discover who can save our species! Come along to this family-friendly exhibition which shines a light on to the plight of the Corncrake. Image © Cliff Reddick

Peedie Pot Workshop

13 Jul 2025 - 13 Jul 2025

Have a try at pottery making in the Heart of Neolithic Orkney! Using examples from Skara Brae and Ness of Brodgar, learn how to make and decorate pots in the same Grooved Ware style as people in Orkney did 5000 years ago.

Carved Ball Making

3 Aug 2025 - 14 Sept 2025

Drop-in to Maeshowe Visitor Centre and make your own stone carved balls! Replicate and learn more about the original objects found at Skara Brae and beyond. Decorate your carved stone balls made from clay and take them home with you.

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