Trumland House

Large Jacobean-style Victorian mansion of 3 bays with garret, harled with a slated roof. Corbie-stepped gablets and a canted bay window sit in the south elevation. Side elevations feature crowstepped gables. The rear door features a carved panel with the initials F. W. T. B. and the date 1873. Built to replace Westness House for General Sir Frederick W. Trail-Burroughs (1831-1905) who inherited Rousay and Wyre from his grand-uncle George W. Traill. (ref: Historic Scotland)

1985: The house is badly damaged by fire. July 1992: External inspection reveals the house to remain in poor condition, although insurers have re-roofed the structure and it is said to be wind and watertight. SCT receives information that the present owner is now bankrupt, and has therefore failed to carry out his scheme to restore the house to a residential dwelling. He had previously initiated a feasibility study and full structural survey. July 1993: SCT understands that the sale of the house has now been concluded. September 1995: The new owner indicates that he plans to restore. May 1997: External inspection reveals no works to have been carried out, although one of the cottages to the rear has been rendered habitable by the owner. January 1999: Local planners report no sign of works commencing. 10 February 2000: The Orcadian reports the councillors have recently visited the house, and are now to serve a Repairs Notice on the owner. It is reported to be no longer wind and watertight with some windows now open to the elements. 8 June 2000: The Orcadian reports that the owner has failed to respond to the Notice, and Orkney Islands Council is to undertake works to make the house wind and watertight itself. However, there is some concern as to whether the Council will be able to find the £1,500 needed to carry out the work. It is reported that pigeons are now nesting in the house. June 2001: The house is now being advertised for sale through Scottish Highland, Inverness. December 2001: SCT receives information that the property has been sold. A Trust is being formed to save the building. 3 April 2003: The Orcadian reports that the owners are seeking old photographs and artefacts connected with the house, in order to aid in their restoration. Refurbishment is due to start in the next few months. July 2003: Historic Scotland reports that the owners are committed to the restoration of the house.

December 2008: Orkney Council forward recent images of Trumland House.

13 September 2013: External inspection suggests external restoration works have completed. It is understood internal restoration works continue. The surrounding grounds are thought to be opened to visitors during Summer months.

12 January 2024: According to desk-based assessment, the gardens appear to be temporarily closed for ongoing works. It is unclear if works to the house have been completed or are also ongoing.