Our £150k ‘Road to the Arctic’ fundraising campaign will kick-start the building of the proposed John Rae Arctic Centre.

We are delighted to announce the launch of a major fundraising challenge to build an access road to the Hall of Clestrain – a first and vital step towards the creation of an internationally-renowned visitor centre, that will share the true story and ethos of Dr John Rae. It will also cement Orkney’s past, present and future connection with Arctic exploration and discovery.

Donations have already been made to the Road to the Arctic Fund, including £5,000 from Highland Park, £10,000 from the Birsay Energy Trust, £2,000 from Arizona businessman, David Connell, £12,000 from another Connecticut private donor, and a sizeable donation from cruise operator Adventure Canada.

Our President Andrew Appleby has also begun fundraising with a sponsored challenge to swim 8000 strokes in Orkney’s icy waters; a stroke for every mile between Orkney and York Factory, one of the Hudson’s Bay trading posts where John Rae would have served, and back. Hundreds of pounds have already been banked (you can keep abreast of his progress in news posts on this site).