Perched above the dramatic South Ronaldsay cliffs, the Isbister Chambered Cairn – better known today as the ‘Tomb of the Eagles’ – is one of Orkney’s top archaeological sites. Discovered by chance by local farmer Ronnie Simison in the 1950s, the Stone Age tomb revealed an amazing collection of bones and artefacts, placed here some 5,000 years ago.

“We’re delighted that the Tomb of the Eagles will continue to impress visitors under the new management. We wish the South Ronaldsay and Burray Development Trust every success in their new venture.”

— Freda Norquay, on behalf of the previous owners, The Simison Partnership

We’re delighted to announce that South Ronaldsay’s largest business, Pentland Ferries, is our principal sponsor, and we will be working closely with them in the immediate future to reopen the Tomb of the Eagles.
Enjoy a unique ‘hands-on’ experience at the Visitor Centre, where you can see, and enjoy the privilege of handling some of the original artefacts found at the sites. During the main visitor season, fascinating displays and daily talks offer insights into the lives of these Stone Age and Bronze Age people. Explore some of the questions which remain unanswered. The Gift Shop offers a wide range of items, including many local crafts, books, hot and cold drinks and Orkney ice cream.

There is a stunning walk from the Visitor Centre to the tomb, via the Bronze Age site – approximately 1 mile along a well-marked path. The maritime heath and grassland is alive in the summer with birds and wild flowers.
This is the one place that brought me to Orkney, and I wasn’t disappointed. The talk in the Visitor Centre was fascinating, and we actually got to handle some real bones from the site. It met all my expectations, and there were even seal pups on the beach! Fantastic day out!

Katy T