Stromness and South Isles

The ward centred on Stromness sits on the western edge of Mainland in the Orkney Islands, Scotland, and includes a string of southern isles such as Graemsay, Hoy and Flotta. Dramatic cliffs and sheltered harbours give way to views across Scapa Flow, with well‑known natural features like the sea stack the Old Man of Hoy and the remote valley of Rackwick attracting walkers and photographers.

Stromness itself is a compact historic port with narrow streets, a strong maritime past and a lively arts presence around the Pier Arts Centre, while island communities retain crofting, fishing and close social ties. The local economy mixes tourism and traditional livelihoods with legacy oil‑era infrastructure on Flotta and growing interest in renewables, and the area is marked by Norse heritage, community resilience and the practical realities of life dependent on ferries and small local services.