Garden scene at Stromness, Orkney.
Recently, I spent a few days on Orkney, an archipelogo off Scotland’s northern coast. During this time I was based in Stromness and took the opportunity to explore this historic small town on foot.
Information on Stromness
Stromness (pop 1800) is a linear community which follows the line of the harbour coast. At the main business end is the harbour whilst at the other is a 18 hole golf course.
In course of my exploration a met with a gentleman with considerable local knowledge who handed me a brochure. The latter comprised wide ranging information on the history and heritage of Stromness.
The name points to Orkney’s Norse origins and translates from straumr nes as ‘cape in the current’.
The first village dates from around 1620 on authority of the Bishop of Orkney.This grew and prospered on the back of wars and shipping. Hudson’s Bay ships called in for recruits and stores until 1891. Until 1870 whaling ships took on crews at Stromness and developed links with local merchants.
Today, the prosperity of Stromness is still linked to the sea. Crabs and shellfish are harvested. Various ferry services operate including an important direct route between Scrabster on the mainland. Separately, there is production of oatcakes and fudge while tourism continues to grow.
In all Stromness boasts some 27 places of historic and special interest including a museum, well and church. Lieutenant Bligh dined at the Whitehouse in 1780 when Captain Cook’s ships called in.
19th century barometer
Former doctors’ house
Harbour view
Marina and ferry terminal
Colourful garden
Parish Church (Presbyterian)
House frontage. Note romantic legend on entrance wall.
Tourist ferry to nearby island of Hoy
Cormorants lined up for fishing trip
Rest and relaxation overlooking the harbour. The cannon is from the Hull brig Liberty which surrendered in the harbour in 1813 by American privateers. Reputedly fired to signal arrival of the Hudson’s Bay Company ships.
More information
For more information on Orkney, other Scottish islands and touring Scotland please refer Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This publication is also available via Kindle.