Hall of Clestrain

Hall of Clestrain is a Georgian mansion in Orkney featuring three bays on each side, with a basement forming the raised foundation of the structure. The exterior displays both rubble and dressed stone, creating a typical appearance of rural Orkney estates from that era.

The mansion was built in 1769 by Patrick Honeyman as a residence for the estate manager and his household. Structural damage in 1952 marked a turning point in the building's condition and how it was subsequently used.

The building carries the story of John Rae, whose achievements in Arctic exploration shaped its legacy. Visitors walking through the grounds sense the connection between this modest Orkney home and the wider world of polar discovery.

The exterior is accessible year-round for self-guided exploration, while the John Rae Society arranges interior tours on request. Those interested in seeing the inside should plan ahead and contact the society in advance.

The basement areas were later transformed into farm storage and animal housing, repurposing rooms that once belonged to a residential home. This practical conversion reveals how the building shifted from domestic use to agricultural function over time.

Location: Orkney Islands

Location: Orphir

GPS coordinates: 58.94738,-3.22423

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:07