Skaill House

Near Skara Brae is the manor house or mansion called Skaill House, from the Norwegian medieval name which means farm. It is one of the most important stately homes on the island, built in 1620 by Bishop George Graham. Later it was home to other noble families, among them Graham Watt, who discovered Skara Brae after the famous storm and who began the process of excavation in the area. Today, the house has become a museum thanks to the action of its current owner, a retired military man named Malcom McRae, who decided to convert the house into a museum after losing his only son in the 40's. It is also used for conferences, celebrations, weddings, etc, and is famous for its ghosts.