HMS Tern - Explore a Historic Second World War Naval Air Station in Orkney

HMS Tern is a former Royal Naval Air Station situated near Twatt on Mainland Orkney, Scotland. Established during the Second World War, the airfield was commissioned as HMS Tern in 1941 and played an important role in supporting Fleet Air Arm operations and the defence of the strategically significant naval base at Scapa Flow. The station accommodated aircraft and personnel involved in wartime naval aviation, contributing to Britain's military operations in the North Atlantic. Today, the surviving buildings and former airfield are being preserved and interpreted by Birsay Heritage Trust, providing visitors with a fascinating opportunity to discover Orkney's wartime history and the experiences of those who served at the station.

Visitors to HMS Tern can explore surviving wartime structures and discover displays featuring historic photographs, artefacts and information about daily life at the airfield. During designated open days, volunteers welcome visitors into buildings including the former Cinema and Fire Station, where exhibitions help bring the station's history to life. Guided tours provide a more detailed experience, lasting just over an hour and taking visitors inside the Fire Station, Cinema and historic Control Tower. The Control Tower is only accessible as part of a guided tour, while certain other buildings remain closed for safety reasons. The site offers a valuable insight into the scale of Orkney's wartime aviation activities and the important role played by the Royal Navy during the Second World War.

HMS Tern welcomes visitors on Wednesdays and Sundays from April to September, between 11am and 4pm, with entry by donation to support the ongoing work of Birsay Heritage Trust. Guided tours normally take place at 2pm on these days, with a suggested donation of ?10 per adult and ?5 for visitors under 18, according to the official visitor information. Tours do not normally require advance booking during the main season, while occasional tours may be available between October and March or arranged by contacting the organisers. Visitor toilets are available when volunteers are on site or during scheduled tours. Although much of the historic site is accessible, visitors should remain within permitted areas, avoid unsafe buildings and respect the surrounding farmland. As opening arrangements and suggested donations may change, visitors should check the official HMS Tern website for the latest details before travelling.

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