In short
- General photography is allowed on the main floor.
- Taking photos during church services is strictly prohibited.
- You can photograph the upper levels if you book a tour.
In this article
St Magnus Cathedral welcomes visitors to capture its architecture. The 50-metre (160-foot) building features unique red and yellow sandstone. You just need to follow a few simple rules to respect the space and other visitors.
Can I take pictures inside St Magnus Cathedral?
Yes, you can take photos inside the cathedral for personal use, provided there is no service running.
The main floor is free to enter and open to photographers. You can take pictures of the 17th-century gravestones and the HMS Royal Oak memorial. Just remember that photography is strictly prohibited during church services.
What are the St Magnus Cathedral photography rules during services?
Photography of any kind is strictly prohibited during church services.
Because the cathedral operates as an active church, all cameras and phones must be put away during services. This includes weddings and funerals. Check local schedules before you arrive to ensure the floor is open for photos.
What should I photograph on the main floor?
Focus on the historic memorials, the unique sandstone pillars, and the choir.
The main floor holds the relics of St Magnus inside a pillar in the choir. You will also find a large memorial and bell from the sunken WWII battleship HMS Royal Oak. Look for the 'memento mori' symbols on the 17th-century gravestones lining the walls.
Can I take photos on the upper levels?
Yes, you can take photos during the £15.60 Upper Levels guided tour.
The 75-minute tour takes you up narrow spiral steps to the high galleries. From there, you get a bird's-eye view looking down into the Romanesque arches. You will also see the clock mechanism and the historic tower bells.
What gear should I bring for cathedral photography?
Bring a camera for the architecture and a smartphone for the audio guide.
- Camera: To capture the red and yellow sandstone exterior.
- Smartphone and Headphones: To access the free St Magnus App via WiFi.
- Small Torch: To help light and photograph the 12th-century graffiti.
- Day Bag: To keep your hands free on the spiral stairs if doing the upper tour.
Is the exterior easy to photograph?
Yes, the cathedral is centrally located on Broad Street with clear views of the 50-metre spire.
The exterior is built with alternating red and yellow sandstone quarried from Head of Holland and Eday. You can view the spire from almost anywhere in Kirkwall. The building dominates the local skyline, making it an excellent subject for outdoor photography.
Questions travellers ask
Is St Magnus Cathedral free to enter?
Yes, entry to the main cathedral floor is completely free of charge. You can walk in and take photos of the ground-level architecture. Guided tours of the upper levels cost £15.60 per person.
Can you take photos inside St Magnus Cathedral?
Yes, general interior photography is allowed. However, photography of any kind is strictly prohibited during church services.
Why is St Magnus Cathedral built with two colours of stone?
The cathedral is constructed using alternating red and yellow sandstone. This stone was quarried locally from Head of Holland and Eday.
