Key facts
- Denomination
- Church of Scotland
- Address
- Kirkwall
Orkney - Built
- 1137
- Listed status
- Category A listed
Sources: Wikipedia, Wikidata Q732112
Before visiting St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall
Service times are not recorded in this listing. We cannot confirm when the next service takes place or whether the building opens outside worship hours.
We do not have confirmed information here about step-free access, accessible toilets, hearing support or supervised children’s groups. If these matter for your visit, ask the church about the specific service you plan to attend.
No direct contact details are recorded. Use the linked sources above or the wider local directory to continue your search.
About St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall
St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall is an active Church of Scotland parish church in Orkney’s principal town. Formerly a Roman Catholic cathedral, it is both Scotland’s earliest surviving cathedral and the northernmost in Britain. The building is owned by Orkney Islands Council and is protected as a Category A listed structure, Scotland’s highest designation for listed buildings.
Work began in 1137, when Orkney was governed by Norse earls under the Norwegian kingdom, and continued in stages for roughly three centuries. Earl Rögnvald Kolsson founded the cathedral in honour of his uncle, St Magnus, whose remains were brought to Kirkwall. Its original Romanesque design includes Norman features, while later work introduced Gothic elements. Red stone sourced near Kirkwall and yellow stone from Eday were arranged in alternating bands and patterned masonry. The cathedral also contains a dungeon where people charged with witchcraft were imprisoned between 1594 and 1708, with proceedings held in the building.
Getting there
Frequently asked questions
What denomination is St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall?⌄
St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall in Kirkwall belongs to the Church of Scotland tradition.
How old is the St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall building?⌄
The building dates from 1137. It is on the statutory register as a Category A listed building.
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About this listing
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