Things to do in Stromness in May

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Overview

May is a good time to visit Stromness. The weather is usually cold and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 46—50°F (8—10°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Stromness during this time. Some of our top recommendations: take a boat trip to the Old Man of Hoy, visit the Ness of Brodgar archaeological site, attend the Orkney Folk Festival, and more!

Stromness has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your May trip to Stromness. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to May. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Stromness in May. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout May, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Don't take our word for it
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Best events and things to do in Stromness in May

Top experiences in May
Take a boat trip to the Old Man of Hoy
A boat trip to the iconic sea stack known as the Old Man of Hoy is a thrilling and unforgettable experience that showcases the raw power and beauty of Orkney's coastal landscapes. In May, you can embark on a guided excursion from Stromness to witness this natural wonder up close, marveling at the towering rock formation and the surrounding cliffs as you cruise through the waters of the Pentland Firth. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking adventure, a boat trip to the Old Man of Hoy is a must-do activity that captures the essence of Orkney's wild and untamed spirit.
Visit the Ness of Brodgar archaeological site
May is an ideal time to explore the ancient wonders of Orkney, and the Ness of Brodgar archaeological site offers a fascinating glimpse into the Neolithic past of the islands. Guided tours of the site provide a unique opportunity to learn about ongoing excavations, discover the significance of the monumental structures and artifacts uncovered here, and gain insight into the rich cultural heritage of Orkney's prehistoric inhabitants. With its mysterious and enigmatic atmosphere, a visit to the Ness of Brodgar is a captivating journey back in time that will leave you in awe of Orkney's ancient legacy.
Attend the Orkney Folk Festival
The Orkney Folk Festival is a unique and vibrant celebration of traditional music and culture, featuring performances from local and international artists. Taking place in May, this festival offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich musical heritage of the Orkney Islands, with concerts, workshops, and sessions held in various venues throughout Stromness. Whether you're a seasoned folk music enthusiast or simply looking to experience something new, the Orkney Folk Festival is a must-see event that captures the spirit of the islands.
Visit the Pier Arts Centre
The Pier Arts Centre in Stromness is a renowned gallery and museum that showcases a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art, with a focus on the Orkney Islands and its connections to the wider world. In May, you can explore thought-provoking exhibitions, attend artist talks and workshops, and browse the center's shop for unique gifts and souvenirs. The Pier Arts Centre is a cultural hub that offers a window into the creative spirit of Orkney, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Go birdwatching at the RSPB reserve
May is a prime time for birdwatching in Orkney, and the RSPB reserve at Hobbister is a fantastic place to spot a wide variety of species in their natural habitat. From nesting seabirds to rare migrants, the reserve offers excellent opportunities for birdwatchers of all levels to observe and learn about the diverse avian life that calls Orkney home. With its tranquil setting and knowledgeable staff, a visit to the RSPB reserve is a peaceful and enriching experience that allows you to connect with the natural world in a meaningful way.
Take a coastal walk to Yesnaby
May is a wonderful time to explore the rugged beauty of the Orkney coastline, and a walk to Yesnaby offers breathtaking views of dramatic sea cliffs, sea stacks, and natural arches. This coastal route is a photographer's dream, with opportunities to capture the wild and untamed landscapes that make Orkney so special. As you wander along the cliff tops, you'll also have the chance to spot seabirds nesting on the sheer rock faces, adding an extra layer of magic to this unforgettable experience.
Explore the Orkney Brewery
Located just a short drive from Stromness, the Orkney Brewery offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the art of craft beer production. In May, you can take a guided tour of the brewery to learn about the brewing process, sample a variety of unique beers, and even enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site bar and bistro. With its picturesque setting and warm Orkney hospitality, a visit to the Orkney Brewery is a delightful way to experience the local flavors and traditions of the islands.
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Holidays in Stromness in May
May
  • Early May Bank Holiday (May 6)
  • Spring Bank Holiday (May 27)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Stromness in May

Temperatures on an average day in Stromness in May

The average temperature in Stromness in May for a typical day ranges from a high of 50°F (10°C) to a low of 46°F (8°C). Some would describe it as cold and breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Stromness, August, has days with highs of 58°F (14°C) and lows of 54°F (12°C). The coldest month, February has days with highs of 44°F (7°C) and lows of 40°F (5°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Stromness in May based on historical data.

Visiting Stromness? See our Stromness Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in May
50°F
highs
46°F
lows

General weather summary

Cold and breezy
Feels like
29%
Chance of rain
0.094 in
Amount
18.0 mph
Wind speed
81%
Humidity
16.9 hrs
Daylight length
4:44 AM
Sunrise
9:35 PM
Sunset
39%
Cloud cover
Jacket
What to wear
What to wear in May
With an average high of 50°F (10°C) and a low of 46°F (8°C), it generally feels cold and breezy. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something warm like a jacket
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Best attractions for Stromness in May

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Stromness has to offer for travelers in May, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Stromness that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Stromness for May.
Skara Brae Prehistoric Village
1. Skara Brae Prehistoric Village
4.7
(1938)
Sights & Landmarks
Historical landmark
The ruins of 8 houses dating from roughly 3000BC with a modern visitor centre telling their tale.
Ring of Brodgar
2. Ring of Brodgar
4.7
(1868)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Dramatic upright stone circle dating from the late Neolithic period, with ditch and causeways.
NorthLink Ferries
3. NorthLink Ferries
4.5
(180)
Ferry service
Transportation
Skaill House
4. Skaill House
4.5
(121)
Sights & Landmarks
Manor house
Ness of Brodgar
5. Ness of Brodgar
4.8
(335)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Yesnaby
6. Yesnaby
4.8
(537)
Vista point
Sights & Landmarks
Hiking & climbing across sandstone cliffs with views over sea stacks, blowholes & nesting puffins.
Orkney Brewery
7. Orkney Brewery
4.6
(111)
Brewery
Stromness Museum
8. Stromness Museum
4.6
(334)
Museum
Specialty Museums
Pier Arts Centre
9. Pier Arts Centre
4.7
(93)
Art museum
Museums
Design-centered space housing a collection of British fine art, with harbor views & a gift shop.
Ness Battery
10. Ness Battery
4.7
(61)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Barnhouse Settlement
11. Barnhouse Settlement
4.6
(35)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Stromness Marina
12. Stromness Marina
4.2
(39)
Marina
Nature & Parks
Best-of categories in Stromness

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Stromness?

Get inspired for your trip to Stromness with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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