Access
Special arrangements are currently in place at Maeshowe Visitor Centre, to comply with Scottish Government guidance during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Safety measures
- Our staff have been trained in hygiene and social distancing and have been provided with the necessary PPE
- Signage is on site to guide visitors, including one way systems and marked areas that are currently closed to visitors
- We have introduced enhanced cleaning measures to make visitors feel comfortable while visiting
- In line with Scottish Government legislation and guidance, face coverings are mandatory if you are visiting any indoor/enclosed spaces at our sites including retail and catering areas (subject to some exceptions)
Parking
Parking is available at Maeshowe Visitor Centre at Stenness, which has accessible bays and is level tarmac.
No parking available at Visitor Centre for coaches larger than 14 seats.
Approach to site
A shuttle bus transports visitors on a five minute journey to Maeshowe. The bus can accommodate a wheelchair (though there is no wheelchair access to Maeshowe itself), but please contact the site about this service as bus facilities may vary.
The cairn is reached across a busy main road from the coach stop. The route to Maeshowe goes through two metal latch gates and 400m along a path surfaced with gravel, stone and uneven grass, to another metal gate. It is on a slight downward slope.
The route carries on down a slight incline. The final approach to the entrance gate is up a grassy slope (1:5 gradient) over a set of stone ridges.
Monument
Maeshowe has a small threshold and its entrance is low (119cm) and narrow (70cm). The entrance passage is 10m long, with a flagstone floor. The passage is unsuitable for wheelchairs.
The main chamber has a gravel surface, and a metal barrier protects the walls. Electric lighting and torches are provided.
A Historic Scotland steward guides all tours.
Surroundings
Maeshowe is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site and is surrounded by unspoilt farmland. Cattle, sheep and wildlife can all be seen in this rural setting.
Also visible from the site are the:
- Loch of Harray
- Loch of Stenness
- Stones of Stenness
- Ring of Brodgar
- Barnhouse Stone
Dogs
Assistance dogs are permitted at all our sites and within roofed areas.
Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and not left unattended at any time. Owners must pick up after their dogs.
Visitors' dogs are not permitted at Maeshowe.
Access Guide
For information on accessibility at more than 80 of our sites download our Access Guide.
