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Orkney Museum and its collection

Orkney Museum
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The Orkney Museum tells the story of Orkney, from the Stone Age, to the Picts and Vikings, right through to the present day. There is a large collection of old photos and activities to amuse younger visitors. The Museum’s collection is of international importance and it has a changing temporary exhibition programme. The Orkney Museum used to be the home of the Baikie family of Tankerness, whose estate gave the house its name. It opened as a museum in 1968 and is an A-listed building. The Baikie Library and Drawing Room gives the visitor an idea of how the house looked when it was a private home.

NLTankerness House Museum
ENTankerness House Museum

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Local Archaeology Historic house Agriculture

#30 Free museums in Scotland #61 History & Anthropology in Scotland #3 Agriculture museums in Scotland #14 Archaeology museums in Scotland #42 Historic houses in Scotland #2 Local museums in Scotland #129 Free museums in United Kingdom #16 Agriculture museums in United Kingdom #97 Archaeology museums in United Kingdom #25 Local museums in United Kingdom #64 Agriculture museums in Europe #44 Local museums in Europe

#30 Free museums in Scotland #61 History & Anthropology in Scotland #3 Agriculture museums in Scotland #14 Archaeology museums in Scotland #42 Historic houses in Scotland #2 Local museums in Scotland #129 Free museums in United Kingdom #16 Agriculture museums in United Kingdom #97 Archaeology museums in United Kingdom #25 Local museums in United Kingdom #64 Agriculture museums in Europe #44 Local museums in Europe

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Orkney Museum
Broad Street
Kirkwall
KW15 1DH Kirkwall

Images of Orkney Museum

Visitor information Orkney Museum

Opening hours

Monday
10:30 – 12:30
13:30 – 17:00
Tuesday
10:30 – 12:30
13:30 – 17:00
Wednesday
10:30 – 12:30
13:30 – 17:00
Thursday
10:30 – 12:30
13:30 – 17:00
Friday
10:30 – 12:30
13:30 – 17:00
Saturday
10:30 – 12:30
13:30 – 17:00
Sunday Closed
More opening hours

Admission

0+Free
More ticket prices

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible
Museum shop
Child-friendly

Location & Map

Broad Street, Kirkwall

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Exhibitions

More exhibitions

Orkney Museum Reviews

Orkney Museum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Orkney Museum in Kirkwall, Scotland, offers visitors an insightful look into the rich history and culture of the Orkney Islands. Located in Tankerness House, a 16th-century building, the museum itself adds to the historical atmosphere. The exhibits cover a wide range of Orcadian history, from prehistoric times through the Viking era and up to more recent periods.

    Many visitors appreciate the museum's comprehensive collection of artifacts, which helps to paint a vivid picture of life in Orkney throughout the ages. The prehistoric and Viking sections are often highlighted as particularly interesting, featuring well-preserved items that bring ancient history to life. The Pictish stone collection is also frequently mentioned as a standout exhibit.

    The museum's strength lies in its ability to tell the story of Orkney in a coherent and engaging manner. Information panels and displays are generally well-organized and informative, providing context for the artifacts on display. Some visitors note that while the museum may not be large, it compensates with the quality and relevance of its exhibits.

    On the downside, some visitors mention that the museum's layout can be a bit confusing, with rooms spread across different levels of the old house. A few also comment that some areas of the museum could benefit from updated presentation techniques or more interactive elements to engage younger visitors.

    The staff at the Orkney Museum are often praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, adding value to the visitor experience. The museum's central location in Kirkwall makes it easily accessible for tourists exploring the town.

    While the Orkney Museum may not be the most modern or technologically advanced museum, it serves its purpose well in showcasing the unique history and culture of the Orkney Islands. It provides a solid foundation for understanding the region's past and is generally considered a worthwhile visit for those interested in local history.

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