In the evening the household gathered round the long fire - the women had their spinning, stories were told, men carved wood - children played on the floor, there was seldom other light used than that from the fire.
Orkney Peatfire Tales are also held on Sunday and Wednesday evenings in the Stromness Hotel's Whisky Still Room bar between May to September.
The Stromness Hotel is a large Victorian Building at the Pier Head in the centre of Stromness. Upon entering the building, go up the stairs and you will find the Still Room Bar by turning left when you reach the first floor. The Still Room bar provides an intimate nest with a uniquely Orcadian setting. The bar itself is reminiscent of the old Stromness Ale houses, has a peatfire and is the ideal place to hear about the legends and lore of Stromness and Orkney. Better still, as the Still Room bar is licensed, you can enjoy a drink as you are captivated by the stories and lore from the past!
Each night is different. On Wednesday night, you can hear Island Legends and Music - which includes Orkney tales and legends (see our Island Legends and Lore page for a taste) and traditional (and live) fiddle music. The cost of entry is £10 and includes drinks (Orkney Whisky, an Orkney Ale or a glass of house wine) to be enjoyed as the evening unfolds.
On Sunday night, enjoy Stromness Tales and Ales. These tales are more directly connected to Stromness - and will give you a sea-salted taste of the town! Tales involve smugglers, seamen, tales of the tides, selkies song and Clestrain treasure. The ticket price for Sunday night is £10 and includes either a 12 year old Orkney Whisky, an Orkney Ale or a glass of house wine.
Both evenings begin at 8pm
To avoid disappointment, please book ahead. To do so, please either contact us or book at the reception of the Stromness Hotel (tel: 01856 850298)
