Lyness was an important naval base during both world wars, when the British Grand Fleet was based in Scapa Flow. This fascinating museum and photographic display, located in an old pump house that once fed fuel to the ships, is a must-see for anyone interested in Orkney's military history. Take your time to browse the exhibits and have a look at the folders of supplementary information – letters home from a seaman lost when the Royal Oak was torpedoed are particularly moving.
It's easily visited, just by the ferry slip at Lyness, and there's a decent cafe. The museum was being renovated at time of research, due to reopen in 2021. During renovations there is a temporary exhibition in the Hoy Hotel, half a mile from the Lyness ferry terminal.
