The Broch of Gurness is a once-mighty Iron Age settlement, with a small village arranged around a central, massive broch tower.

It's perched on the edge of the Orkney's West Mainland - part of a coastline that, at one point, would have been lined with brochs. Across Eynhallow Sound you can see another well-preserved example at Midhowe in Rousay.

Gurness is a substantial broch, measuring around 65ft in diameter. Defended by two rock-cut ditches and a rampart, this was clearly a place of power. It's thought the surrounding village could have featured around 14 houses and you can still see examples of all three elements at the site.

The Broch of Gurness is around 2000-years-old and is one of the most fascinating sites to visit in Orkney, with unrivalled access to the its buildings, ancients stones and structures.

It's found on a beautiful stretch of coastline too, with stunning sea views and the beach at the Sands of Evie nearby.

Find out more about access arrangements for the Broch of Gurness.

Opening times

2 April to 30 September 2025:
Daily except Tuesday and Friday, 10am to last entry at 4pm (closes 4.30pm).

Closed for lunch 12 noon to 1pm.

The site will be accessible on Tuesday & Friday, but the visitor centre is closed.

We recommend booking online in advance to guarantee entry.

Call 01856 751 414 for details before visiting.

1 Oct to 1 April:
The site is accessible and open daily but the visitor centre is closed.