
Scapa Flow Museum
Explore the pivotal naval history of Scapa Flow at this award-winning museum, showcasing WWI & WWII stories and artifacts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Tour groups thin out

Scapa Flow Museum
Best Time
Tour groups thin out

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the pivotal naval history of Scapa Flow at this award-winning museum, showcasing WWI & WWII stories and artifacts.
"An absolute must for military history buffs, offering a deep dive into Scapa Flow's wartime significance."

Allocate ample time
Plan for at least 2 hours to fully appreciate the extensive exhibits and history.
Ask about the shed!
Don't forget to ask staff to open the shed for additional fascinating exhibits.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Naval History Exhibits
Main Exhibition Halls
Explore artifacts and stories from both British and German navies, detailing Scapa Flow's crucial role in WWI and WWII.

Former Oil Depot Machinery
Original Oil Pumping Station
See the heavy machinery used to fuel ships, offering a glimpse into the logistical might of the naval base.

Personal Stories and Photos
Interactive Displays
Connect with the human side of wartime Orkney through personal accounts and photographs of those stationed here.

Air Raid Shelter
Outdoor Exhibit
Experience a piece of wartime history by visiting the atmospheric air raid shelter on site.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Scapa Flow Museum
Getting to Hoy and the Museum
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate ample time
Plan for at least 2 hours to fully appreciate the extensive exhibits and history.
Ask about the shed!
Don't forget to ask staff to open the shed for additional fascinating exhibits.
Kid-friendly treasure hunt
Children can enjoy a well-designed treasure hunt to engage them with the museum's content.
Convenient ferry access
The museum is a short walk from the Lyness ferry terminal, perfect for waiting for your ferry.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate ample time
Plan for at least 2 hours to fully appreciate the extensive exhibits and history.
Ask about the shed!
Don't forget to ask staff to open the shed for additional fascinating exhibits.
Kid-friendly treasure hunt
Children can enjoy a well-designed treasure hunt to engage them with the museum's content.
Convenient ferry access
The museum is a short walk from the Lyness ferry terminal, perfect for waiting for your ferry.
Donation-based entry
Entry is by donation, making it an accessible and valuable experience for all.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Scapa Flow Museum for its extensive and fascinating military history exhibits, particularly its focus on WWI and WWII naval operations. The museum's location and the opportunity to see original machinery and artifacts are highly appreciated. While the cafe is noted for reasonable prices, some reviews mention less-than-enthusiastic staff.
"If you're interested in military history, this place is an absolute must. There are myriad pieces of information detailing what happened with the British and German navies at Scapa Flow, as well as what life was like here during the war.
There are also a lot of artefacts from ships that sank in Scapa Flow, but British as well as German. The museum is set in a former military oil depot which was pumping oil to / from the ships, so you can also see lots of the heavy machinery accomplishing this task.
Overall a great experience and I'd recommend allocating at least 2 hours to visit this. The ferry terminal is right across the road so a great activity of you need to wait for the ferry."
Vlad Schnakovszki
"Terrific WW1 & WW2 Navy Museum.
So many interesting things to see and do.
Cafe is fantastic too.
Only a one minute drive from Lyness Ferry Pier.
We have visited this amazing Museum twice now,and each time we see more & more."
mark munro
"One of many trips to the museum on Hoy! To get here you can take the foot passenger ferry from stromness but you'd have to walk there as there is no bus or you can take the car over if you go via houghton (best if you want to explore the island!)
The museum is literally the first thing you see as you come off the ferry to the right. Everything is sign posted and well documented as you go through. It's amazing to see all the photos of the people who were involved on Hoy, amd learn just how much Orkney did in the war efforts. Well worth a visit.
Also, ask them to open up the shed, there is more to see in there but they'll only open it up if you ask! Also, go into the air raid shelter, it's a little spooky, but its really good. This part night no be accessible to everyone, as there is a ramp that maybe slippy in the winter months but there are no steps"
Kizzy Donnelly
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Scapa Flow Museum on Hoy by ferry. From Stromness, you can take a foot passenger ferry, but be prepared for a walk to the museum. For more convenience and to explore Hoy, consider the car ferry via Houton. The museum is located at Lyness, easily visible upon arrival.
Currently, there is no bus service on Hoy to reach the museum from the ferry terminal. It's best to travel by car or be prepared for a walk if arriving as a foot passenger.
Taking a car ferry to Hoy is the most recommended way to explore the island and easily access the Scapa Flow Museum and other sites.
Yes, the Scapa Flow Museum is conveniently located right across from the Lyness ferry terminal, making it an ideal activity while waiting for your ferry.
There are foot passenger ferries from Stromness and car ferries that travel via Houton. Check the local ferry schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Scapa Flow Museum operates on a donation basis, meaning there is no fixed entrance fee. Visitors are encouraged to donate what they feel is appropriate for their experience.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Scapa Flow Museum website or their social media for the most current operating times before your visit.
As entry is by donation, advance booking is generally not required. However, for group visits or specific events, it's always a good idea to contact the museum directly.
The museum is generally accessible, with a ramp leading to the air raid shelter. However, some areas might have uneven surfaces, so it's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility needs.
The museum frequently hosts special exhibits and events, especially related to its history and the Orkney islands. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that allocating at least 2 hours is ideal to thoroughly explore the museum's extensive exhibits and learn about the history of Scapa Flow.
You can see a wide array of artifacts from both British and German naval ships, including personal items, weaponry, and machinery from the former oil depot.
Yes, children can enjoy a well-thought-out treasure hunt that helps them engage with the museum's content and stay entertained.
The museum has an air raid shelter that visitors can explore, offering a unique and atmospheric glimpse into wartime life.
While not explicitly mentioned, the museum staff are known for being welcoming and helpful. It's worth asking if any informal insights or information are available during your visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Scapa Flow Museum has a cafe on-site that offers food and drinks at reasonable prices.
The cafe offers a selection of refreshments. While reviews mention it's nice, one noted unenthusiastic staff.
As the museum is on Hoy, dining options outside of the museum cafe might be limited. It's advisable to check local listings or consider bringing your own snacks.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally polite to consume outside food in designated areas or picnic spots rather than within the museum galleries or cafe.
Reviews indicate that the cafe prices are reasonable, offering good value for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside museums for personal use, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits.
Capture the impressive naval artifacts, the machinery of the former oil depot, and the atmospheric air raid shelter. The exterior views of the museum and its surroundings are also scenic.
Drone photography is typically subject to strict regulations, especially near historical sites and populated areas. Always check local bylaws and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
Late afternoon light can offer beautiful illumination for exterior shots, while the indoor exhibits are well-lit for photography throughout the day.
Yes, you can generally take photos of the artifacts for personal memories. However, avoid using flash as it can damage delicate items over time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎖️ Military History Enthusiasts
🚶 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Strategic Importance of Scapa Flow
During WWI, the German High Seas Fleet was interned at Scapa Flow after the armistice, and in a dramatic act of defiance, the German sailors scuttled their own ships in 1919 to prevent them from falling into Allied hands. Many of these wrecks still lie on the seabed, a testament to this historical event. The museum showcases artifacts recovered from these sunken vessels, offering a tangible connection to this significant moment in naval history.
In WWII, Scapa Flow once again became a vital base for the Royal Navy, facing threats from German U-boats and aircraft. The museum details these wartime experiences, including the construction of defensive measures and the daily lives of the servicemen stationed on Orkney. The exhibits highlight Orkney's crucial contribution to the war effort and the resilience of its people during these challenging times.
Exploring the Scapa Flow Museum
Visitors can expect to find a wealth of information on the naval history of Scapa Flow, with displays covering everything from the grand strategy of the wars to the personal lives of those stationed there. The museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts, including items salvaged from shipwrecks, personal effects of sailors, and military equipment. A particular highlight is the preserved machinery from the oil depot, offering a unique insight into the logistical operations that supported the fleet.
Beyond the main exhibits, the museum offers additional points of interest. The air raid shelter provides a chilling glimpse into the realities of wartime life, and visitors are encouraged to ask staff about accessing the nearby shed, which contains further exhibits. For younger visitors, a treasure hunt is available, making the learning experience engaging and fun.






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