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Tourist Attraction

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Photo: Elisa Gava Williams

About Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Step into Scotland's ancient past at this remarkably preserved 5,000-year-old Stone Age settlement, where families can explore original dwellings and discover how Neolithic people lived on Orkney's windswept coast.

What's nearby

  • Skara Brae Visitor Centre 350m away

Distances as the crow flies, via Google

Good to know

Parking

  • ✓Free car park
  • ✓Paid car park
  • ✓Free street

Accessibility

  • ✓Accessible parking
  • ✓Accessible entrance
  • ✓Accessible toilet

Payment

  • ✓Credit cards
  • ✓Debit cards
  • ✓Contactless

Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.

Photos

Photos via Google

Opening hours

Monday
10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday
10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.

What visitors say

Hetty IRL

Amazing history well kept beautiful surroundings. Magnificent beach . It’s worth going to the museum and listening to the history before going to the main Outside area. This is a little shop at the Centre and also they have a café with nice tea and coffee and cakes.

· via Google

Alesia Hoyle

The OLDEST Neolithic village site in Europe! The architectural layout of homes and spaces back then is beyond intriguing and much like our own now. The feeling you get walking around and looking out into the sea is marvelous. Knowing people have lived here so long ago and told stories and danced to the same ocean is something else. A humbling and significant site for all humanity.

· via Google

Asad Ziar

Dive into 5,000 years of ancient history at the Stone Age settlement of Skara Brae. Set on the island of Orkney, this incredibly well-preserved Neolithic village is older than the Great Pyramids, and is part of the UNESCO-listed group of ancient monuments on the island. As well as Skara Brae, you can see the Maes Howe tomb and two standing stone circles — the Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar. If you’re more into recent history, visit the Italian Chapel that was built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII.

· via Google

Paul Lumsden

At Skara Brae, you can wander through an extraordinary prehistoric village, the best‑preserved group of ancient houses in Western Europe! First uncovered by a storm in 1850, Skara Brae remains a place of discovery today. Visit a replica Neolithic house to see how its full interior might have looked. Then follow the path that overlooks the ancient buildings, imagining what life was like for the farmers, hunters and fishermen who lived here. There is a cliff path walk to the left if you are feeling up for a walk or you could just stroll along the beach. Oh and if hes there the Bull is massive the photo does not do him justice!

· via Google

See all reviews on Google →

Visitors say this archaeological site offers a fascinating look at a well-preserved Neolithic village, including a replica house and informative exhibits. They also highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff, who enhance the experience with their insights. Guests mention the beautiful coastal setting and the convenience of the visitor center, which includes a cafe and shop.

Summary via Google

At a glance

Address
Sandwick, Stromness, KW16 3LR Get directions
Category
Sightseeing & Attractions
Guest rating
4.7 / 5 (2,583 reviews)
Suitable for
Ages 4+
Setting
Indoor & outdoor
Good for children
Yes
Toilets on site
Yes
Destination
The Orkney Isles