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Things to do on Rousay /

THINGS TO DO · ROUSAY & ORKNEY

Rousay Heritage Centre: Island Stories at the Pier

The Heritage Centre is a good place to get to know Rousay’s people and history. It’s right at the pier.

Sand, rock shelves and blue sea on the Rousay coast
The Rousay coast, with the cottage to come back to.

Where is Rousay Heritage Centre?

Rousay Heritage Centre is inside the waiting room at Rousay Pier. Its displays introduce the island’s people, districts, history and natural history, making it a useful stop around your ferry journey and a starting point for understanding the places you visit.

An introduction to Rousay

The Rousay Heritage Centre is run by REW Heritage SCIO. Its displays explore the island’s people, districts and history, alongside its natural environment.

You’ll come across many of the same place names as you explore Rousay.

More of Rousay’s history

Our archaeology guide has places to visit around the island. We recommend Rousay Tours if you’d like to explore with a local guide.

The Ness of Brodgar Project shares a Time Team film about the Knowe of Swandro. Coastal erosion is threatening the archaeological remains there. Our Swandro guide explains the site’s history and what’s possible for visitors.

A few more questions

Where is the Heritage Centre?

It’s inside the waiting-room building at Rousay Pier.

Can I combine it with an archaeology visit?

Yes. It’s a good introduction to the sites around the island. Our site guides include current access details and the walks to each monument.

Find out more

From Stay Rousay. Practical information checked 17 September 2026. The links go to the operators and local organisations for the latest details.