Access
Special arrangements are currently in place at Skara Brae, to comply with Scottish Government guidance during the Covid-19 pandemic. These arrangements are detailed below, and will be regularly updated. Last updated: 28 July 2020.
Although things may be a little different, we hope that you will have an enjoyable visit and will be greeted with a warm and friendly smile by staff.
Safety measures
- Our staff have been trained in hygiene and physical 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, including our toilet facilities, to make visitors feel comfortable while visiting
- In line with Scottish Government legislation and guidance, face coverings are now mandatory if you are visiting any indoor/enclosed spaces at our sites including retail and catering areas (subject to some exceptions)
Watch our video on what to expect when you visit our sites
Carers tickets
In line with best practice in the visitor attractions industry and as advised by Capability Scotland, 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 offer free entry for carers accompanying visitors with disabilities. To book a free carer ticket, please email ticketing@hes.scot and quote your order number.
Parking
The level, tarmac surfaced car park, next to the visitor centre has accessible bays. If visiting Skaill House, visitors with limited mobility can also be dropped off directly outside.
Approach to site
The site is 500m from the visitor centre, through a latch gate and along a crushed stone path, which is mainly resin bound.
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 Skara Brae.
What will be open during your visit
- External spaces
- Most internal spaces open to visitor access (except Replica House)
- Visitor centre
- Exhibition (partially open)
- Shop
- Toilets available (limited capacity for physical distancing)
What will remain closed/unavailable during your visit
- Replica House
- Film
- Café
- Mobility scooters
Visiting the site
A one-way system is currently in place at Skara Brae, and staff are eager to assist any visitors with specific requirements. Please contact the site or make staff aware if you have any concerns.
- From the visitor centre, visitors follow a 500m path of mainly bound, crushed stone. There is a timber latch gate
The visitor centre has ramped access. Inside it is all level
There is an adapted toilet in the visitor centre
The replica house here will not be open at this time - Visitors follow a one-way route around the site, viewing the original houses from a path above. The paths are stone and grass. Some sections of the site path are very narrow (about 50cm)
There are steps with handrails leading to some areas
Members of staff on site can provide assistance if required - There are two benches spaced along the path to the site
- Skaill House is 140m from Skara Brae visitor centre on a crushed stone path. The ground floor of the building is on the level. The upper floors are reached via stairs. There is a bench to the rear of Skaill House
Please note: Skaill House is operated separately from Skara Brae. The house will be open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays only. Its opening times are 9.30am to last entry at 3.45pm. Face coverings must be worn while visiting the house.
