Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

  • Maeshowe Visitor Centre, Ireland Road, Stenness, Orkney KW16 3LB

  • 01856 851 266

Important notice

The landline is currently down. Please fill out the 'Contact us' section of the website if you need to get in touch.

Plan your visit

Book tickets

Access to Maeshowe Chambered Cairn is by guided tour only. starting and finishing at the Visitor Centre at Stenness. Due to limited capacity, it is strongly recommended to reserve your tour online to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.

For around 6 weeks in the winter (roughly from the end of November through to the middle of January, weather dependent) the setting sun aligns with the central chamber of the cairn. Visitors wishing to see the setting sun should book for the 2pm tour.

Please note that filming and photography are not permitted inside the cairn. 

Historic Scotland Members, Explorer Pass holders and reciprocal members: Entry is free, but it is strongly recommended you make a tour reservation in advance to guarantee entry. 

Standard Admission, Member & Explorer Pass Tickets Partner Organisation Tickets

Partner organisations include, English Heritage, Cadw and Manx Members, Young Scot, STGA and SITOA card holders.

Save with an Explorer Pass

An Explorer Pass, valid for 14 consecutive days is a great way to explore our iconic sites.

Explore more with Orkney Digital Guide

Discover nearly 5,000 years of Orkney’s history and prehistory, including Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, with our Orkney Digital Guide. Purchase as an Add-On when booking your ticket, or separately using the link below.

Buy Orkney Digital Guide

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Opening times

1 Apr to 30 Sept: 
Daily, 9.30am to last entry at 4pm (closes at 5.30pm)
Tour times: 10am, 12 noon, 2pm and 4pm

1 Oct to 31 Mar:
Daily, 10am to 4pm
Tour times: 10am, 12 noon and 2pm

Due to limited capacity, it is strongly recommended to reserve your visit online to guarantee entry.

Historic Scotland

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