Access
Carers tickets
In line with best practice in the visitor attractions industry, visitors with disabilities are treated on an equal basis with all other visitors and entry is charged at the appropriate admission category rate - Adult/Concession/Child. Proof of disability is not required.
We recognise that some disabled visitors may need help to visit our sites and we offer free entry for accompanying carers, these can be added when making your booking. Please note this is limited to two carers per transaction.
Parking
Parking is available at Maeshowe Visitor Centre at Stenness, which has accessible bays and is level tarmac.
No coach parking available at Visitor Centre or nearby lay-by for coaches larger than 14 seats, please drop off and pick up visitors.
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. Access to the cairn is via a low and long passageway.
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
Ear Defenders
A limited number of adult and children’s ear defenders are available at this site. Please ask a member of staff if you want to borrow them.
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.
