Scapa Flow Museum
A museum in the former naval base at Lyness on Hoy. Reopened after a 2022 renovation, it tells the naval history of Scapa Flow in both world wars.
The museum is in Lyness on Hoy, in converted former pump houses and oil storage tanks. Its exhibits and films cover the scuttling of the German fleet, the sinking of HMS Royal Oak, and daily life on the base. Large guns and anchors stand outside. Since the renovation, admission is free, though donations are welcome. Take the car ferry from Houton on the Mainland to Lyness, a journey of about 40 minutes, then walk from the landing point. There is also a Commonwealth naval cemetery nearby.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–17:00 (shorter in winter; check official website). Free admission
Nearby sights
- Hackness Martello Tower
- Dwarfie Stane
- Standing Stones of Stenness
- Scapa Flow
- Unstan Chambered Cairn
- Stromness Museum
- Barnhouse Settlement
- Maeshowe