Name: The Pier Arts Centre
Rating: 5.0

The Pier Arts Centre

Pier Arts Centre, Victoria Street, Stromness, Orkney, UK

1-99 Years

Description

The Pier Arts Centre is an award-winning gallery and museum that serves as a vibrant cultural hub in the historic port of Stromness. Established in 1979 to house a world-class collection of 20th-century British art, it is widely considered one of the best things to do with kids in Stromness if you are looking for an educational day out that pairs modern masterpieces with the rugged beauty of the Orkney shoreline. The building itself is a striking blend of historic pier-side architecture and sleek modern design, offering floor-to-ceiling views of the harbour that are just as much a work of art as the paintings inside.

Admission to the centre is completely free for all visitors, making it a brilliant, low-cost option for families exploring the islands. While the main collection is permanent, the centre hosts a rotating programme of exhibitions and events throughout the year to keep the experience fresh.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that bridges the gap between historical heritage and contemporary creativity, The Pier Arts Centre is a top-tier choice. It provides a peaceful yet stimulating indoor space where children can discover world-renowned artists like Barbara Hepworth and Ben Nicholson, often followed by a walk along the harbour to see the sea that inspired their work.

Features

Free
Host birthday parties: Yes

Features

Key Features

Interactive Learning: The centre regularly hosts workshops and meet-up groups, such as the "Neuk Group," designed to engage the local community and visitors in hands-on creativity.
World-Class Exhibits: Explore a collection of international significance, featuring works donated by Margaret Gardiner "to be held in trust for Orkney".
Educational Day Out: Students and young artists are frequently spotlighted, with dedicated exhibitions for senior school pupils and recent graduates.
Historic Setting: The gallery is built across two traditional piers, allowing families to explore the unique maritime architecture of Stromness.

Top 5 Highlights

The Margaret Gardiner Collection: The heart of the museum, featuring stunning abstract works by artists like Barbara Hepworth, whose sculptures often mirror the natural forms found on the coast.
Harbour View Galleries: The modern glass-fronted rooms offer a "bird's-eye" view of the Stromness harbour. Kids love watching the ferries and local boats come and go while surrounded by art.
The Asprey Gift: A major 2026 exhibition titled Through Their Eyes, showcasing a significant donation of contemporary works alongside the classic permanent collection.
Local Graduate Showcases: The Gen-erate exhibition highlights the latest generation of Orkney designers and artists, providing inspiration for budding young creators.
The Pier-side Walk: Since the museum is built directly on the water, the transition from the indoor exhibits to the outdoor sea air is seamless and exciting for active children.

Facilities

Gallery Shop: Stocks unique Orkney crafts, art books, and exhibition-themed gifts.
Toilets: Available on-site for visitors.
Accessibility: The centre is fully accessible, with arrangements in place to ensure all visitors can navigate the galleries.
Staff: Highly knowledgeable volunteers and staff are on hand to answer questions about the exhibits.

Pro-Tips for Parents

Beat the Crowds: Stromness can become busy when cruise ships are in port at nearby Kirkwall. Check the cruise schedule and aim to visit on a "quiet" day for a more peaceful experience.
Bus Logic: If you are staying in Kirkwall, take the X1 bus. It is the fastest, most direct route to Stromness and drops you just a few minutes from the centre.
Timing: The gallery is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Plan your trip for Tuesday through Saturday to ensure you don't miss out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Pier Arts Centre worth it for toddlers? While the gallery is quiet, toddlers often enjoy the harbour views and the "sculpture-like" forms of the abstract art. However, it is best suited for school-age children who can participate in workshops or engage with the educational displays.
How long does a visit to The Pier Arts Centre take? Most families spend between 1.5 and 2 hours here. This allows for a leisurely walk through the two piers of galleries and a stop at the shop.
Where is the best place to park for The Pier Arts Centre? The best parking is at the Stromness Harbour public car parks. Since Victoria Street is very narrow and largely pedestrian-focused, it’s easier to park at the edge of the town and enjoy the 5-minute walk through the historic streets.
Are there cheap indoor activities in Stromness for kids? The Pier Arts Centre is the premier free indoor activity in town. Pair it with a visit to the Stromness Museum or a wander through the local library for a full day of low-cost, all-weather entertainment.

The Visitor Verdict: What Parents Really Think
What Visitors Love

Free Cultural Experience: Families love that they can access world-class art without a high entry fee.
The Views: The way the art interacts with the natural harbour light is frequently cited as a highlight.
Support for Young Artists: Many parents appreciate the dedicated exhibitions that showcase local student work.

What Visitors Don't Like

Limited Hours: Being closed on Sundays and Mondays can be tricky for weekend visitors.
Quiet Atmosphere: Some parents of very young, high-energy toddlers find the quiet gallery setting a bit challenging for long stays.

What to see

Detailed Inventory

The Pier Arts Centre houses a diverse range of modern and contemporary works:
Sculptures by Barbara Hepworth: Iconic abstract forms that are a staple of the permanent collection.
Paintings by Ben Nicholson: Famous for his geometric and modernist style.
Works by Naum Gabo and Italo Valenti: Key pieces from the mid-20th century abstract movement.
The Charles Asprey Gift: A collection of 53 works, including pieces by Wolfgang Tillmans and Michael Dean.
Cast Forward Exhibit: A rotating display of artwork by senior pupils from across Orkney's schools.
Temporary Exhibition Gallery: A dedicated space for changing displays that rotate throughout the year.

Beyond the Main Attraction

Stromness itself is a "hidden gem" of narrow flagstone streets and historic piers. After visiting the centre, families can walk five minutes to the Stromness Museum for more local history or stop at one of the traditional local bakeries for a treat. For an outdoor adventure, the Marwick Head cliffs are a 15-minute bus ride away, offering dramatic views and nesting seabirds.
New for 2026
The standout feature for 2026 is the major exhibition "Through Their Eyes: The Pier Arts Centre Collection and the unfolding Asprey gift", running from 2nd May to 7th November. This exhibition will feature a series of changing displays, ensuring that even repeat visitors in 2026 will find something new to discover.

Website

Contact

Video

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: Yes

Birthday Party Details

The Pier Arts Centre does not list specific "birthday party packages" on its official website. However, it is a community space that often hosts creative gatherings. For private event or venue hire enquiries, you should contact the centre directly at [email protected].

All year: Tuesday to Saturday 10:30am-5pm
7 July-7 September 2025: Monday-Saturday 10.30am-5pm Sunday 10.30am-3.30pm

Address: Pier Arts Centre, Victoria Street, Stromness, Orkney, UK

Post Code: KW16 3AA

Council: Orkney Islands

County: Orkney

By Bus: Take the X1 service from Kirkwall Travel Centre; it’s a direct and scenic route.
By Car: Use postcode KW16 3AA. Note that Stromness is largely pedestrianised; use the main public car parks at the harbour entrance.
On Foot: The centre is a short 5-minute walk from the ferry terminal and the main bus stop.