St Magnus Cathedral Kirkwall: Visitor Guide & Things to See
Blair Martel
Aug 9, 2026
Standing in the heart of Kirkwall, St Magnus Cathedral is one of the most distinctive landmarks in Orkney and an essential stop for anyone spending time in the island’s main town.
Known as the “Light in the North”, St Magnus Cathedral has occupied this spot since construction began in 1137. Today, it remains a working church as well as one of Kirkwall’s most popular visitor attractions.
For travellers, it has another advantage: it is extremely easy to include in your plans. The cathedral sits right in the centre of Kirkwall, close to the Orkney Museum, Bishop’s Palace, Earl’s Palace, shops and cafés. You can spend less than an hour here or make it the starting point for an entire afternoon exploring historic Kirkwall.
If you are planning a wider island itinerary, explore Orkney to discover more historic sites, attractions and places to visit across the islands.
This guide focuses on everything you need to know when planning your visit, from St Magnus Cathedral opening times and tours to accessibility, photography and nearby attractions.
St Magnus Cathedral Visitor Information
Here are the essentials before you visit:
- Location: Broad Street, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1NX
- Entry: Free, with donations encouraged
- October to March: Monday–Saturday, 9am–1pm and 2pm–5pm
- April to September: Monday–Saturday, 9am–5pm
- Sunday visitor opening, April to September: 1pm–5pm
- Sunday service: Usually 11.15am
- Typical visit: Around 45 minutes to one hour
- Best for: Architecture, photography, local history, culture and rainy-day sightseeing
- Tours: Upper-level and other specialist tours are available
- Accessibility: Wheelchair access and accessible toilet facilities are available
- Nearby attractions: Bishop’s Palace, Earl’s Palace and the Orkney Museum
- Booking: General admission does not normally require advance booking
Because St Magnus Cathedral Kirkwall is still an active place of worship, it may occasionally close during normal visitor hours for weddings, funerals or other services. If your itinerary is tight, check the cathedral’s current information before travelling.
Why Visit St Magnus Cathedral?
Orkney is perhaps best known for prehistoric landmarks such as Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar, but St Magnus Cathedral introduces visitors to a completely different period in the islands’ story.
This is the Orkney of Norse earls, medieval bishops, sea routes, saints and later Scottish influence.
For many travellers, that contrast is precisely what makes a visit worthwhile. After days spent exploring stone circles, chambered tombs and windswept archaeological landscapes, Kirkwall Cathedral brings you into a much more recognisable medieval world.
It is also one of the easiest major attractions in Orkney to visit. There is no countryside drive or long walk involved. Once you reach central Kirkwall, most of the historic quarter can be explored on foot.
The cathedral therefore works equally well as:
- A main attraction during a day in Kirkwall
- A stop on a rainy afternoon
- Part of a walking tour of central Kirkwall
- A cultural break between outdoor attractions
- A starting point for exploring Orkney's Norse heritage
The building remains part of everyday island life too. St Magnus Cathedral is still used for worship, concerts, community events and remembrance, rather than existing purely as a museum. The cathedral describes itself as Britain's most northerly cathedral and continues to welcome visitors as well as worshippers.
Why Is St Magnus Cathedral Called the “Light in the North”?
You do not need to know the complete story of St Magnus before visiting, but a little context makes the building far more meaningful.
Construction of the cathedral began in 1137, when Earl Rognvald commissioned a great church in honour of his uncle, Magnus Erlendsson, Earl of Orkney.
The building was created using local red and yellow sandstone and developed over several centuries. Much of what visitors see today is Romanesque in character, with rounded arches, substantial pillars and a wonderful sense of solidity.
St Magnus Cathedral is considered the most complete medieval cathedral in Scotland. The building also has an unusual relationship with the town: unlike most British cathedrals, it belongs to the people of Orkney through Orkney Islands Council.
If you want the fuller story of St Magnus himself, the cathedral’s construction, Norse Orkney and the building's architecture, read our separate guide to the history of St Magnus Cathedral. Keeping that history separate allows you to explore the cathedral in much more depth without turning a practical visitor guide into a history lesson.
What to See Inside St Magnus Cathedral
It is tempting to walk straight down the nave when you enter, but St Magnus Cathedral rewards a slower visit.
Allow yourself time to look upwards, then return your attention to details closer to ground level.
The Red and Yellow Sandstone
The distinctive stone is one of the first things you will notice.
Local red and yellow sandstone creates alternating colours throughout parts of the building. Depending on the weather and time of day, the interior can appear warm and glowing or much darker and more atmospheric.
It is one reason the name “Light in the North” feels so appropriate.
Rather than viewing the walls as a single surface, look at the individual columns, arches and changes in stone colour. Centuries of weathering and alteration have added texture that is easy to overlook during a quick visit.
The Nave
The nave provides one of the cathedral’s most impressive views.
Stand towards the western end and look along the length of the building. The repetition of arches and pillars leads your eye towards the choir and gives a clear sense of the cathedral's scale.
This is also an excellent place to pause rather than simply passing through. The interior feels remarkably calm compared with the activity outside on Broad Street.
The Arches and Stonework
Much of the visual character of St Magnus Cathedral Orkney comes from its Romanesque architecture.
Rounded arches, strong columns and thick stonework give the interior a weight and rhythm that feel very different from later, more delicate Gothic churches.
Look closely at doorways, column capitals and junctions between different sections of the building. The cathedral took centuries to complete, so changes in style and workmanship appear as you move through it.
Stained Glass
The windows introduce colour into what might otherwise be an overwhelmingly stone interior.
Take time to look at them individually rather than treating them simply as background decoration. Their appearance can change considerably according to the weather outside, making a bright summer visit feel very different from one on a dark winter afternoon.
Memorials and Gravestones
The walls and floors contain memorials connected with generations of Orcadians.
Some are grand; others are modest. Together they remind you that St Magnus Cathedral has served a living community for centuries rather than simply surviving as a medieval monument.
Look for carvings and symbols associated with death, remembrance and the passing of time. These smaller details can be some of the most memorable parts of the visit.
The HMS Royal Oak Memorial
Visitors interested in Orkney’s Second World War history should look for the cathedral's connection with HMS Royal Oak, sunk in Scapa Flow in October 1939.
The memorial adds another historical layer to the cathedral and provides a natural connection with other wartime attractions around Orkney, including Scapa Flow, the Churchill Barriers and the Italian Chapel.
It is a good example of why the cathedral is more than a medieval attraction: different generations of Orcadians have continued to use it as a place of collective memory.
What Tours Are Available at St Magnus Cathedral?
General entry is enough to appreciate the main cathedral, but a tour is worth considering if you want to see areas that ordinary visitors cannot access.
Upper Levels Tours
One of the most interesting St Magnus Cathedral tours takes visitors into the upper parts of the building.
These tours reveal hidden spaces and architectural features that cannot be seen properly from the main floor. They are particularly worthwhile if you are interested in architecture, historic buildings or unusual viewpoints.
Upper-level tours need to be arranged in advance through the cathedral custodians. Current tour availability can vary throughout the year, so contact the cathedral before building your day around one.
Because the upper parts involve stairs and historic spaces, they will not be suitable for every visitor.
Self-Guided Visit
If you prefer exploring independently, the cathedral has an audio-visual app that can be accessed on a smartphone or tablet while inside.
Bring your own headphones, as these are not supplied.
There is also a printed guide produced by the Friends of St Magnus Cathedral. It is useful if you enjoy moving through historic buildings at your own pace rather than joining organised tours.
Visit the St Magnus Centre
The St Magnus Centre is only a few minutes' walk from the cathedral on Palace Road.
During the visitor season, it offers information, souvenirs and a short multilingual film introducing the story of St Magnus and the cathedral.
Watching the film before entering the cathedral can be worthwhile for first-time visitors because it provides context for what you are about to see.
The centre is usually open on weekdays during the summer visitor season.
How Long Should You Spend at St Magnus Cathedral?
For most visitors, 45 minutes to one hour is ideal.
If you are short on time, 30 minutes is enough to walk through the main interior and see its principal features.
Allow longer if you intend to:
- Follow the cathedral's digital guide
- Study the memorials and stained glass
- Photograph the interior
- Explore the graveyard
- Join an upper-level tour
- Visit the St Magnus Centre afterwards
If you are genuinely interested in architecture or medieval history, you can easily spend two hours between the cathedral, graveyard and tour.
Is St Magnus Cathedral Good for a Rainy Day?
Absolutely.
Orkney's weather can change quickly, so having a few worthwhile indoor attractions in your itinerary is always useful.
The cathedral is one of the best things to do in Kirkwall when it rains, particularly because several other indoor attractions and cafés are only a short walk away.
A wet-weather afternoon could easily include:
- St Magnus Cathedral
- Orkney Museum
- Coffee or lunch in central Kirkwall
- Independent shops around Broad Street and Albert Street
If the weather improves, add the neighbouring palaces afterwards.
Accessibility at St Magnus Cathedral
St Magnus Cathedral has wheelchair access via the Bishop's Door on the south side.
Public toilets are available, including an accessible cubicle, and the cathedral also provides a hearing loop for events.
As with many historic buildings, however, visitors should expect some uneven surfaces, changes in level and restricted access to particular areas.
The main visitor level is much more accessible than the upper-level tours. If mobility is an important consideration, contact the cathedral before booking a specialist tour.
The cathedral currently also notes limited access to St Rognvald's Chapel because of maintenance work, so checking current conditions before your visit is sensible.
Photography Tips
St Magnus Cathedral is particularly photogenic because of its colour and the contrast between the building and the surrounding streets.
Outside the Cathedral
Broad Street gives you one of the classic views, particularly when approaching central Kirkwall.
Try photographing the cathedral:
- Early in the morning before the town becomes busy
- In late afternoon light when the sandstone warms up
- From neighbouring streets with historic buildings in the foreground
- After rain, when wet paving can reflect the architecture
A wider lens is helpful when photographing from close to the building because the surrounding streets leave limited room to step backwards.
Inside the Cathedral
The long nave and repeated arches make strong symmetrical compositions.
Look for:
- Patterns in the columns
- Stone colour contrasts
- Stained-glass details
- Memorial carvings
- Light falling across the floor
- Views towards the choir
Remember that it remains a working church. Avoid disturbing people who are praying or attending services, and follow any current photography restrictions.
What to See Near St Magnus Cathedral
One of the best things about visiting Kirkwall Cathedral is how much else lies within a few minutes' walk.
You can explore several important Orkney attractions without returning to your car.
Bishop's Palace Kirkwall
The Bishop's Palace Kirkwall stands immediately beside the cathedral.
The ruins have their origins in the 12th century and were associated with Orkney’s medieval bishops.
One of the palace's most famous historical connections is with King Håkon IV of Norway, who died in Kirkwall in 1263 after returning from his campaign on Scotland’s west coast.
Visitors can explore much of the palace ruins and grounds. In the 2026 visitor season, Historic Environment Scotland lists opening from 10am to 4.30pm daily between 1 April and 30 September, with a short lunchtime closure. Check current arrangements before visiting outside these dates.
Earl's Palace Kirkwall
Beside the Bishop's Palace is the later Earl's Palace Kirkwall.
Built in the early 17th century, it provides a completely different architectural experience from the cathedral and medieval bishop's residence.
The ruins reveal the scale and ambition of the Stewart earls of Orkney. Visiting both palaces together is useful because you can see how political and architectural power changed across several centuries without walking more than a few hundred metres.
The Bishop's and Earl's Palaces operate together as a Historic Environment Scotland attraction.
Orkney Museum Kirkwall
If this is your first trip to Orkney, the museum is particularly worthwhile because its collections place many of the sites you will encounter elsewhere in the islands into context.
Displays span Orkney's long human story, from archaeology and Norse heritage to social and maritime history.
The museum is therefore a useful companion to the cathedral. Visit St Magnus first to experience one important period physically, then cross the street to understand how that period fits into thousands of years of island history.
Exploring Central Kirkwall
After visiting the main historic sites, allow time simply to wander.
Broad Street, Albert Street and the surrounding lanes contain independent shops, jewellery businesses, cafés and small local stores.
This compact centre is one reason Kirkwall is so easy to explore on foot.
Rather than treating St Magnus Cathedral as an isolated attraction, use it as the centre point of a relaxed walking route through town.
Suggested Half-Day Kirkwall Itinerary
If you have half a day in Kirkwall, try this straightforward route.
Stop 1: St Magnus Cathedral
Begin with approximately one hour inside the cathedral.
Visit earlier in the day if you prefer quieter conditions and want more time for photography.
Stop 2: Bishop's Palace and Earl's Palace
Walk around the corner and explore the neighbouring ruins.
Allow approximately 45 minutes to one hour depending on how deeply you want to explore.
Stop 3: Orkney Museum
Cross back towards Broad Street and spend around an hour at the museum.
Stop 4: Kirkwall Town Centre
Finish with lunch, coffee or shopping along Kirkwall's historic streets.
This itinerary works particularly well for first-time visitors because it combines medieval, Norse and wider Orcadian history within an exceptionally compact area.
Visiting St Magnus Cathedral from Stromness
If you are staying in Stromness, Kirkwall makes an easy day trip across Mainland Orkney.
The two towns are connected by the main road across the island, and regular bus services generally operate between them.
Once you arrive in central Kirkwall, St Magnus Cathedral and the surrounding historic attractions can be explored entirely on foot.
A good plan is to spend the morning around the cathedral and Kirkwall's historic centre, have lunch in town, then continue to another attraction elsewhere on Mainland Orkney in the afternoon.
Visitors based at The Stromness Hotel can therefore combine Kirkwall with other parts of Orkney without needing to change accommodation.
Practical Tips Before You Visit
A few simple preparations can make your visit easier.
Check the opening hours
Opening arrangements differ between summer and winter, particularly on Sundays.
The cathedral can also close temporarily for weddings, funerals and services, so check the latest information if visiting at a particular time is important to you.
Bring headphones
If you intend to use the cathedral's audio-visual visitor app, bring your own headphones.
Book specialist tours ahead
Upper-level tours cannot simply be joined whenever you arrive. Contact the cathedral in advance if they are a priority.
Dress for Kirkwall, not just the cathedral
Even though most of your cathedral visit will be indoors, nearby attractions involve some outdoor walking. A waterproof jacket is useful in Orkney at almost any time of year.
Remember it is still a church
Visitors are welcome, but worship and community events take priority.
Keep voices low, avoid interrupting anyone in prayer and respect restricted areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is St Magnus Cathedral free to visit?
Yes. General admission to St Magnus Cathedral is free. Donations are encouraged to support the building's upkeep. Orkney Islands Council currently suggests a £5 donation per visitor.
What are the St Magnus Cathedral opening times?
From April to September, the cathedral is generally open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm, with Sunday visitor opening from 1pm to 5pm.
From October to March, visiting hours are Monday to Saturday, 9am–1pm and 2pm–5pm. Sunday worship normally takes place at 11.15am.
Do you need to book St Magnus Cathedral?
No booking is normally required for a standard visit. Specialist tours should be arranged separately.
How long should I spend at St Magnus Cathedral?
Allow around 45 minutes to one hour for a normal visit. Allow two hours or longer if you are joining a tour or exploring the graveyard and St Magnus Centre.
Is St Magnus Cathedral still used as a church?
Yes. It remains an active Church of Scotland congregation, with Sunday worship normally held at 11.15am.
Why is St Magnus Cathedral called the Light in the North?
“Light in the North” is the cathedral's longstanding nickname. Its distinctive red and yellow sandstone gives the building a particularly warm appearance, while the name also reflects its long religious and cultural importance to Orkney.
Is St Magnus Cathedral accessible?
Yes, wheelchair access is available to the main cathedral, along with accessible toilet facilities. Historic upper levels have more restricted access.
What attractions are close to St Magnus Cathedral?
The Bishop's Palace, Earl's Palace and Orkney Museum are all within a few minutes' walk. Kirkwall's shops, cafés and historic streets surround the cathedral, making it easy to spend several hours exploring without a car.
Make St Magnus Cathedral Part of Your Kirkwall Day
St Magnus Cathedral is one of those attractions that works for almost every type of Orkney visitor.
You can come for the architecture, follow Orkney's Norse connections, photograph the sandstone, join a tour, attend worship or simply spend a quiet half-hour away from the wind and rain.
Its central location makes the visit even easier. Within a short walk, you can explore the Bishop's Palace, Earl's Palace and Orkney Museum Kirkwall, then continue through the town's shops and cafés.
For first-time visitors especially, the cathedral is more than another item on a list of things to do in Kirkwall. It provides a useful bridge between the prehistoric Orkney experienced at places such as Brodgar and Skara Brae and the medieval, Norse and modern communities that followed.
Take your time inside, look beyond the obvious features and leave enough space in your itinerary to explore the streets around it. St Magnus Cathedral may stand in the centre of Kirkwall, but it opens the door to a much wider story of Orkney.
If you only have a short time in Kirkwall, make this your first stop. If you have longer, slow down, take a tour, visit the neighbouring palaces and cross the road to the Orkney Museum. Few places bring together so many layers of Orkney’s story in such an easy, walkable area.
For first-time visitors, St Magnus Cathedral is not just one of the best things to do in Kirkwall. It is one of the best introductions to Orkney itself.
Blair Martel
Categories
Orkney History & Heritage
