Stromness
Stromness
On the south of mainland Orkney The town of the Stromness is the second most populated on Orkney, a lot smaller than Kirkwall it nether the less is very popular with visitors as its appearance has changed little since the 18th century. Lining a flagstone covered main street are numerous alleyways and passages between the houses down to the waterfront. The houses are full of character many have whalebones decorating the exteriors.
The name Stromness is from the Norse straumsnes a word for strong tide straum; this refers to the rip tide at hoy sound to the south. The ness part from nes meaning headland, in Viking times the anchorage was called hamnavoe, which meant peaceful or safe harbour.
The town grew in importance in the 17th century when ships called in to avoid the English Channel as England was at war with France, many local sailors joined the crews, captain’s cook’s ships the resolution and discovery both called in again to recruit local sailors. The herring boom also had a great effect on the town with lots of young woman arriving for jobs processing the catch; this resulted in Stromness becoming such a lively place that alcohol was banned until 1947.
Nearby places of interest.
George MacKay Browns house
The town’s museum has great displays and is well worth a visit as all the history is recorded in exhibits and displays from around the world. There is an excellent arts centre with major displays of 20th century British art.
The town hosts a St Magnus festival the brainchild of Peter Maxwell Davies the musician and resident of Orkney, his piano composition farewell to Stromness has a haunting quality.
Activities in Stromness
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