Stromness is recorded in early Icelandic sagas written in the 11th and 12th centuries showing that the Norse and the Vikings once settled here, but it is likely that the Picts lived here before that. The name itself comes from the Old Norse word “strumr-nes” meaning tidal stream / race point. It was the main outpost of the Hudson Bay Company being the arrival and departure port of their ships to and from Canada in the 1600’s. In 1734, the people of Stromness revolted against the taxes imposed upon them by Kirkwall and even though it did take 15 years, eventually the tax structure was revoked. Throughout the years, the economy of the town has depended on fishing, making straw hats and at one time was the site of a distillery.
Although there are villages and towns scattered around the shores of Hamnavoe - Old Norse "hamn-vágr": haven bay, - Stromness is the largest on the island. The main street of the town has many twists and turns and even though it doesn’t branch off, it has five different names. This is a charming and picturesque town with narrow streets. It is a walker’s delight with the paths leading into the hills where one can spend a wonderful day in the fresh air enjoying exercise and glorious scenery. Take a diving charter to seven sunken German ships or take a deep sea fishing expedition for a day or part of a day. Visitors are welcome to tee off at the Stromness Golf Club, the site of many world-class golfing competitions. Visit the Waterfront Gallery to see the locally made Orkney crafts. If you are shopping for yourself or someone else, you are sure to find something unique here.
As you walk past the sandstone buildings, you will realize that many of them have been here for centuries. There are also many interesting shops for you to pop into as well as restaurants and pubs where you can enjoy a drink and lively conversation. If you decide to stay a while, the Stromness Hotel and the West End Hotel have the comfortable accommodations and the friendly staff to make this a memorable visit.
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