The heritage centre tells some of the many stories of life in Hoy through film, audio, exhibitions, displays and folders. The eclectic collection of themes cover the Old Man of Hoy, the Dwarfie Stane, folklore, shipwrecks, Hoy poetry, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, Hoy newspaper clippings, archive photographs, botany and weather. There is a photographic census and family records - perfect for researching family history, ancestry and genealogy. The extensive natural history library holds over 100 books on flora and fauna.

There is a summer programme of events from nature walks to St Magnus International Festival and Orkney International Science Festival events as well as talks, reels and jigs, and outdoor perrformances.

The late 19th century kirk was bought by the community to run as a heritage centre and local venue. The building retains its character and the pulpit is reputed to incorporate wooden panels from a Spanish Armada ship. The kirk is still used for ocassional services, and for weddings and funerals.

With toilets and facilities the centre offers shelter with culture and even if you are the only one in the building you'll still feel the warm welcome.