The List

Skara Brae

The neolithic settlement of Skara Brae, near the dramatic white beach of the Bay of Skaill, is one of the best preserved groups of prehistoric houses in Western Europe. Uncovered by a storm in 1850, the attraction presents a remarkable picture of life around 5,000 years ago. Visitors can experience a prehistoric village and see ancient homes fitted with stone beds, dressers and seats. A replica construction allows visitors to fully understand the interior of a prehistoric house. An informative visitor centre provides touch-screen presentations, fact-finding quizzes for children and adults, and an opportunity to see artefacts discovered during archaeological excavations in the 1970s. There is a café and gift shop selling a range of locally made products. Part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site. • Joint ticket with Skaill House available from April - September • 19m NW of Kirkwall on the B9056 • Open all year. Café may have restricted opening hours in winter • Last admission 45 minutes before closing • Wheelchairs available • Admission: (Summer) Adult £6.70 Child £3.35 Concessions £5.20 (Winter: Skara Brae only) Adult £5.70 Child £2.85 Concessions £4.70 • VisitScotland grading ★★★★★

What's On @ Skara Brae

Skara Brae Evening Tours

Skara Brae Evening Tours

9 Jun 2025 - 28 Aug 2025

Join us ‘after hours’ for an exclusive opportunity to tour Skara Brae when the site is closed to the general public. As if that wasn’t enough, there will be the unique opportunity to access one of the houses and workshop areas to truly get up close to prehistoric history and you’ll have a 45 minute tour with a guide with your small group. Avoid the crowds and join us for an experience you will never forget.
Skaill Knife Demonstration

Skaill Knife Demonstration

9 Jul 2025 - 20 Aug 2025

Join us for a Skaill Knife demonstration to learn about the how they were made, what they were used for, and why they are so significant. There will be three demonstrations on the day that will last for 20-30 minutes. Parking is limited. The car park is level tarmac surfaced. Next to the visitor centre has accessible bays. There will be no seating available. Safety glasses and gloves will be provided for those who would like to handle the objects. Parking - The level, tarmac surfaced car park, next to the visitor centre has accessible bays. Ear Defenders - A limited number of adult and children’s ear defenders are available at this site. Please ask a member of staff if you want to borrow them. Dogs - Assistance dogs are permitted at all our sites and within roofed areas. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and not left unattended at any time. Owners must pick up after their dogs. The visitor centre has ramped access. Inside it is all level. There is an adapted toilet in the visitor centre

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