Grain Earth House Kirkwall
An ancient Iron Age underground structure in Kirkwall, requiring key collection and a crawl through a dark tunnel for a unique historical experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
To collect keys easily
Grain Earth House Kirkwall
Best Time
To collect keys easily
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient Iron Age underground structure in Kirkwall, requiring key collection and a crawl through a dark tunnel for a unique historical experience.
"Fascinating to be immersed in such an old building; the darkness and silence are indescribable."
🔑 Key Collection is Mandatory
Get keys from Judith Glue shop in Kirkwall. You have 2 hours to explore. :admission_tickets:
🔦 Bring Your Own Torch
The supplied torch might need new batteries. Essential for the dark interior. :flashlight:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Underground Chamber
Main chamber
Descend into a dark, ancient space with four columns supporting the roof. Imagine its Iron Age purpose.
The Access Tunnel
Entrance tunnel
A narrow, low tunnel that requires a crawl to enter. An adventure in itself!
Ancient Graffiti
Chamber walls
Discover intriguing old markings etched into the rocks by past visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Key Collection is Crucial
Embrace the Darkness & Crawl
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔑 Key Collection is Mandatory
Get keys from Judith Glue shop in Kirkwall. You have 2 hours to explore. :admission_tickets:
🔦 Bring Your Own Torch
The supplied torch might need new batteries. Essential for the dark interior. :flashlight:
⚠️ Mind Your Head!
The access tunnel is low and narrow. Crawl carefully and watch out for low ceilings. :warning:
🚫 Not for Claustrophobics
The tight spaces and darkness can be intense. Assess your comfort level. :personinmanual_wheelchair:
Tips
from all over the internet
🔑 Key Collection is Mandatory
Get keys from Judith Glue shop in Kirkwall. You have 2 hours to explore. :admission_tickets:
🔦 Bring Your Own Torch
The supplied torch might need new batteries. Essential for the dark interior. :flashlight:
⚠️ Mind Your Head!
The access tunnel is low and narrow. Crawl carefully and watch out for low ceilings. :warning:
🚫 Not for Claustrophobics
The tight spaces and darkness can be intense. Assess your comfort level. :personinmanual_wheelchair:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
It can be damp and a bit mucky inside. Protect your footwear. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Grain Earth House a fascinating, albeit small and damp, underground Iron Age monument. The unique key collection process from Judith Glue shop is a memorable part of the experience. While not for the claustrophobic, its ancient atmosphere and intriguing graffiti offer a worthwhile glimpse into Orkney's past.
"First get the keys from judith glue shop, in front of the church, you dont need to pay or anything, just ask for it and then sign your name and phone on the book she will give to you, after that you have 2 hours to bring the key back, it's more than enough.
The grain house isn't that big, so there isn't much to do down there, and it's a lil bit uncomfortable, but it's cool to check it out."
Isabela Ribeiro
"The Grain Earth House was fascinating. Pick up the keys from Judith Glue in the centre of town and then you head over to a light industrial area. The house is small, pitch black and with a narrow low tunnel for access. There's a working torch at the entrance.
Once inside it's amazing to be immersed in such an old building. Turn the light off and the darkness and silence are indescribable. It's much more modest that the many other wonders on the mainland but I felt it was definitely worth the small detour to visit."
Jennifer Kirkaldy
"The Grain Earth House is in the middle of the industrial estate, you need to get keys from Judith Glue, a shop in Kirkwall. It is claimed that this Iron Age monument was built to store grain...hence the name, but it is very damp so I have my doubts. You'll need to take a torch, there is one supplied but it needs some new batteries! Descend the steps into an underground tunnel, where you crawl to a small open area with 4 columns holding the roof. Use your imagination to what this was used for. There's a lot of old graffiti marked into the rocks which is also interesting to find. Mind your head at all times!!"
Marie Sanders
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Grain Earth House is located in a light industrial area on the outskirts of Kirkwall. You'll need to collect the keys from Judith Glue shop in the town centre, opposite the cathedral, before heading to the site.
While not explicitly mentioned, the site is in an industrial estate, suggesting some parking might be available nearby. It's best to check upon arrival.
Yes, the Judith Glue shop is a short walk from the cathedral, and the site itself is described as being in a 'light industrial area' which implies it's accessible on foot from the town, though it might be a bit of a walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you don't need to pay for entry. You simply need to collect the keys from Judith Glue shop in Kirkwall and sign a logbook.
There are no set opening hours as access is controlled by key collection from Judith Glue shop. You have a 2-hour window once you have the key.
You are typically given a 2-hour window to explore the site after collecting the keys. This is generally considered more than enough time.
No specific age restrictions are mentioned, but due to the crawling and tight spaces, it may not be suitable for very young children or individuals with mobility issues.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a small, pitch-black underground chamber with four columns supporting the roof. Access is via a narrow, low tunnel requiring a crawl. It's described as damp and ancient.
It is generally advised that the Grain Earth House is NOT suitable for individuals with claustrophobia due to the very tight and dark access tunnel and small interior space.
It's highly recommended to bring your own torch, as the supplied one may have weak batteries. Sturdy shoes are also advisable due to damp conditions.
It's believed to be an Iron Age monument, possibly built for storing grain, though its dampness leads some to doubt this theory. It offers a glimpse into ancient structures.
While not explicitly forbidden, the extreme darkness and tight spaces might make photography challenging. A good torch and a steady hand would be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Adventurous Explorers
This is not your typical museum visit; it's an active exploration. The sense of discovery as you navigate the dark chamber and find ancient markings is incredibly rewarding for the intrepid traveler. It’s a memorable experience that stands out from more conventional historical sites.
History Buffs Seeking Authenticity
While modest in size, its historical significance is immense. The opportunity to explore a structure that has stood for millennia, even with its challenges, is a profound experience for any history enthusiast. It’s a chance to engage with the past in a way that few other sites allow.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Accessing the Ancient Past: The Key Collection Process
This key collection system, while requiring a small detour, adds a layer of personal connection to the visit. It ensures that the site is managed and that visitors are aware of the unique nature of the monument. It's a community-driven approach that preserves the integrity of this historical gem.
The Experience Inside: Darkness, Dampness, and Discovery
Beyond the physical structure, the walls bear witness to time through ancient graffiti, adding another layer of intrigue. The silence and darkness are often described as indescribable, offering a unique connection to the past. However, it's important to note that the tight spaces and darkness make this site unsuitable for those with claustrophobia. Visitors should also be prepared for damp conditions and wear appropriate footwear.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit