5 Museums in South Ronaldsay That You Shouldn't Miss

Perched above the dramatic South Ronaldsay cliffs, the Isbister Chambered Cairn - better known today as the ‘Tomb of the Eagles’ - is one of Orkney’s top archaeological sites. Discovered by chance by local farmer Ronnie Simison in the 1950s, the Stone Age tomb revealed an amazing collection of bones and artefacts, placed here some 5,000 years ago. Roughly half a mile inland from the tomb is a Bronze Age site. It comprises a mound of burnt stone and the remains of a stone building, named after the ‘Liddle’ farm where Ronnie uncovered them. Excavations at the site have led to important discoveries about how people lived and worked in Orkney 3,000 years ago.Enjoy a unique ‘hands-on’ experience at the Visitor Centre, where you can see, and enjoy the privilege of handling some of the original artefacts found at the sites. During the main visitor season, fascinating displays and daily talks offer insights into the lives of these Stone Age and Bronze Age people. Explore some of the questions which remain unanswered. The Gift Shop offers a wide range of items, including many local crafts, books, hot and cold drinks and Orkney ice cream. There is a stunning walk from the Visitor Centre to the tomb, via the Bronze Age site - approximately 1 mile along a well-marked path. The maritime heath and grassland is alive in the summer with birds and wild flowers. More than 50 years after Ronnie Simison came across these remarkable sites, his family invite you to come and enjoy these well-loved visitor attractions.

The Hoxa Tapestry Gallery is home to Orkney artist Leila Thomson's unique, large, handwoven tapestries. The gallery opened to the public in June 1996 and receives visitors from all over the world each year.The tapestries are inspired by Orkney's ever changing landscape and scenery, as well as Orkney folklore and heritage. In addition to the original woven tapestries, we also produce tapestry art prints, mounted prints, greeting cards and postcards which are available online.

The village smithy in St Margaret's Hope has been turned into the Smiddy Museum and houses a fine display of tools and artefacts, which the blacksmith would have used in his work. Horse harnesses hang from the walls and there are strange-looking pieces of equipment on the floor. As well as the blacksmith's tools, there is a unique and interesting collection of archives and photographs which show local events, island life and items of interest, for researching local history or genealogy.

Open from May to August, we provide a guided tour of this 5,000 year old Neolithic Tomb. The tour is an experience unlike any other in Orkney today because it still contains human remains. Tours take approximately 45 minutes.