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A Guide to Vacationing on the Orkney Islands

Quintessentially Scottish coastlines, whiskey distilleries, and Stone Age remains are just a ferry ride away.

In the North Sea just beyond the tip of Scotland, the Orkney Islands often fail to register with tourists. Almost never are they included on any list of Europe's highlights , but why? Because, despite their "island" title, they don't offer white-sand, umbrella-clad beaches, or a balmy Mediterranean climate à la Greece and Spain?

Instead, this scattered archipelago of 70 islands — two thirds of which are uninhabited — has a time-worn, slightly mystical charm of its own. On the Orkney Islands, visitors are rewarded with storm-battered cliffs, ancient stone circles, and ominous-looking "sea stacks" rising from the churning blue water like swords.

Though the Orkney Islands are just 10 miles off the mainland and entirely accessible by ferry from the northern coast, including from Gills Bay and John O'Groats, or by plane from Aberdeen and major U.K. cities, getting there typically requires a few hours and multiple modes of transportation. The farthest-north ferry terminals (i.e., the ones that offer 40- to 60-minute rides) are at least a 2.5-hour drive from Inverness, and the perhaps more-convenient ferry from Aberdeen to Kirkwall takes six hours. The quickest way to travel to the islands is via a 45-minute flight from Inverness to Kirkwall.

Rest assured, the journey is worth it. On Orkney, you'll find a thriving capital with shops and tour operators, frequent ferry service connecting the islands, and one of Europe's highest concentrations of ancient Neolithic sites, all of which are open to visitors. So, ready to plan a trip? Here's everything you need to know before traveling to the Orkney Islands.

Visit an ancient site.

Mainland (the largest of the Orkney Islands) is packed with prehistoric treasures and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Start off with a visit to the Ring of Brodgar , a stone circle that, at an estimated 4,500 years old, is similar in age to Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. Somehow, 27 of its original 60 stones remain standing after all this time, and the experience of walking around these ancient monuments is nothing short of breathtaking.

Nearby Skara Brae is a preserved Stone Age settlement that was uncovered in 1850 when a particularly violent storm blew away all the sand that had concealed it for centuries. Here, you can make out walls and furnishings that were hand-laid by humans more than 5,000 years ago. And if you like the idea of sleeping alongside the prehistoric ruins, it's possible to rent an apartment inside Skaill House , a lovely 17th-century farm manor that sits 600 feet from the archeological site.

Go for a coastal hike.

With the raging North Sea beneath you and a particularly vibrant wildflower display occurring each spring, the Orkney Islands make for very memorable hiking. On western Mainland, you can walk the rugged coastline on a 10-mile path that takes you right to the edge of the cliffs. It offers fantastic views of the sea stacks, those teetering rock formations hewn from the island by the waves.

For something more guided, book a tour with the private company Orkney Uncovered , which offers themed expeditions all over the islands.

Take the world's shortest flight.

Once you've made it to the Orkney Islands from mainland Scotland, there are plenty of ways to get around. Travelers can jump on a bus, catch additional ferries, or head off in a rental car. But much like in the Faroe Islands to the north, there are also inter-island flights, these ones operated by a Scottish airline called Loganair . Among the destinations (like Eday, North Ronaldsay, Sanday, and Stronsay) is a 1.7-mile route that connects Westray to Papa Westray. At just under two minutes, it's officially the world's shortest flight .

Spend the night in Kirkwall.

The capital of Orkney, Kirkwall, is a city rich with culture and history. Records show it was an important trade center as early as the 11th century. Today, it's a bustling commercial hub, with restaurants, bars, theaters, and a nice mix of shops selling locally designed jewelry, crafts, and apparel. At St. Magnus Cathedral , a Viking-era sandstone cathedral dating back to 1137, visitors who sign up for a guided tour are permitted to climb the bell tower. Among Kirkwall's many lodging options are the family-run Ayre Hotel and the Victorian-themed Kirkwall Hotel , which both overlook the marina.

Beyond Kirkwall, it's also worth making the 20-minute drive to Stromness, the second most-populated town in Orkney. With its rows of tiny, centuries-old stone houses set against the water, it boasts one of the dreamiest harbor views in all of Europe.

Go camping in the summer.

With so much open space, it's unsurprising that many travelers want to sleep under the stars during the warmer months. Book a glamping pod or campsite at Wheems Organic Farm , an eco-lodge on a 200-year-old working farm. The property faces the sea on the island South Ronaldsay, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding cliffs and, depending on the time of year, the Northern Lights . While the property's winning feature is its remoteness, a causeway connects South Ronaldsay to Mainland, so you're never more than a half-hour drive back to Kirkwall.

Drink Scottish whiskey.

In true Scottish fashion, there are several whiskey distilleries on the Orkney Islands. Most famous of them is Highland Park , which until recently was the U.K.'s northernmost distillery. ( Kimbland Distillery , on the Orkney island of Sanday, is about 20 miles further north.) Highland Park's single malt has won numerous awards and accolades — and, because it's been making the stuff since 1798, no one is really questioning the distillery's expertise. During a tour of the facilities, visitors learn all about how the barley is steeped in water fresh from a nearby creek, then aged in Spanish oak casks seasoned with sherry. And yes, the tour ends with a tasting.

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The Ultimate Orkney Islands Travel Guide

Discover amazing things to do in orkney islands, where to stay, and how to explore these mystical northern isles brimming with millennia-deep history, unique heritage, and out-of-this-world scenery..

There is more to Scotland than Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and the Scottish Highlands. Tucked away in the North Sea lie the Orkney Islands, a magical archipelago offering incredible scenery, wildlife walks, and adrenaline-inducing activities like diving among World War II shipwrecks and sea kayaking.

Giving off a distinctly Nordic vibe yet still unmistakably Scottish, the Orkney Islands are a treasure trove for outdoors enthusiasts, history buffs, and families looking for active holidays.

Visit Orkney to explore the UK’s Viking past and see the Neolithic stone monuments rivalling Stonehenge, enjoy walks along the rugged coastline, spot the red-legged puffins and seal pups frolicking on sandy beaches, and enjoy Orkney’s famed seafood restaurants and Highland Park whiskey distilled here since the mid-1700s.

If you’re looking to plan a Scottish trip with a difference, this guide will help kick off your Orkney Islands adventure in style.

Best Time to Visit the Orkney Islands

Although boasting several pristine-white sand beaches and turquoise waters, the Orkney Islands aren’t a tropical paradise. The best time to visit the Orkney Islands is between late May and early September.

Don’t forget to layer up though! Even in the summer months, the Orkney weather can be chilly, and you might experience some rain.

How to Get To The Orkney Islands

The Orkney Islands may feel like a remote, far-flung corner of the UK, but getting here is surprisingly easy. You can either take a ferry from Aberdeen, Scrabster, or John O’Groats, or hop on a flight to Kirkwall from Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Inverness, or Glasgow.

If you’re driving, your best bet is the Aberdeen ferry to Kirkwall (6 hours) or, if you prefer a shorter crossing, Scrabster to Stromness (1.5 hours).

For more information on how to reach the islands, check out our guide to how to get to Orkney .

Top Things to Do in Orkney

With stunning highland scenery, pretty harbour towns, and the largest concentration of Neolithic sites in Europe, there’s no shortage of things to do in Orkney.

Visit Kirkwall

The capital of Orkney, Kirkwall is an excellent place to start exploring the islands. Start off by taking a walk in the historic centre of Kirkwall and visit the incredible 12 th century St Magnus Cathedral. Next, stop by the small but fascinating Orkney Museum where you can find out more about the history of the islands, from the Viking period all the way to present day.

For a hearty lunch, grab a bite at Helgi’s , a cosy place serving up tasty comfort food on Harbour Street. There’s a quirky Viking-style interior and great seafood (vegetarian and vegan options are also available).

While shopping may not be high on your list of things to do in Orkney, Kirkwall has lots of amazing Nordic-inspired jewellery and crafts places that are ideal for gifts… for friends and family, or as a souvenir of your adventure!

Spend a day in Stromness

When visiting Orkney, a day in Stromness is a must. For one, this town boasts one of the most picturesque harbours in Europe (think Lofoten Islands in Norway!)

For another, Stromness has a charming old town with ancient stone houses lining the water. After a walking tour of central Stromness, try out the best seafood in Orkney at Hamnavoe Restaurant on Graham Place – the salmon here is especially delicious! If you’re looking for more active things to do in Orkney, Stromness is also a great place for diving, sea kayaking and nature walks.

Explore the Ring of Brodgar

Predating both Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, the Ring of Brodgar is one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the Orkney Islands. A mysterious circle of 27 standing stones built around 2500 BC, the Ring of Brodgar continues to puzzle the archaeologists of today as no one knows the exact purpose of this ancient monument.

If you have all day, be sure to visit the nearby Stones of Stenness Circle and Henge , another breath-taking site of standing monoliths, some of them towering at over 16 feet.

Visit the Stone Age village of Skara Brae

Located near the Ring of Bordgar, Skara Brae is a Stone Age village dating back over 5,000 years. The prehistoric ruins tell a tale of an ancient society, long gone, but not forgotten.

You can still make out the remnants of walls and furnishings at the site, and it‘s worth spending an hour or two exploring on foot. After visiting Skara Brae, take a walk on the beach of Skaill, one of the most beautiful wild beaches in Orkney boasting white sands and tranquil blue waters.  

Visit Churchill Barriers Church

If you‘re looking for more things to do in Orkney Islands, stop to admire the Churchill Barriers church built by Italian prisoners of war who were held in Orkney in the 1940s. The Italian prisoners convinced their camp command to let them build a chapel, and astonishingly, what they created with meagre means is nothing short of a work of art.

The church features an elaborate facade and special interior paintings created by Domenico Chiocchetti.

See the ancient tomb of Maeshowe

Another gem of prehistoric Orkney heritage, Maeshowe is an ancient tomb built around 5,000 years ago. Appearing like a grass-covered hill, Maeshowe is a chamber featuring ancient Viking runes on the walls and surrounded by myth and legend.

On winter solstice, the rays of the rising sun hit the entry of Maeshowe in such an angle that it illuminates the entire chamber, hinting at the ingenuity of the ancient builders’. Located just off Stoneyhill Road near Stenness, Maeshowe is one of the top things to do in Orkney.

Take a trip to the Isle of Hoy

As well as history, a visit to Orkney is all about scenery and nature. If you love hiking and wildlife, take a short ferry from Stromness and visit the Isle of Hoy, one of the most spectacular islands in the archipelago.

The Isle of Hoy is famous for its 450-feet tall sandstone rock rising from the sea. It resembles the profile of a face looking out to sea, so the rock has been nicknamed the Old Man of Hoy.

One of the most spectacular things to do in Orkney, is hike around the Isle of Hoy. There’s a narrow footpath which circles along the shore, and the rewards are big! The views are immense, with jagged cliffs, beaches, and turbulent waters below.

Scuba diving in Orkney

Because of the islands’ northern location, diving probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you’re looking for cool things to do in Orkney. And yet, Orkney is one of the best dive locations in the world because of the presence of sunken World War II ships littering the seabed in Scapa Flow. In fact, it’s one of our 20 trips that show the best of Britain.

52 ships sank near Orkney during the war, and seven can be explored on a diving expedition just off the coast. The diving season in Orkney runs between April and November.

Where to stay in Orkney

Highland park house, kirkwall.

If you plan to visit Orkney and spend some of your stay in Kirkwall, Highland Park House is a great place to stay.

A stunning Victorian mansion, Highland Park is just ten minutes’ drive from the town centre and twenty minutes’ drive from Ring of Brodgar and other Orkney attractions.

You can check prices and availability at the Gilpin Hotel here.

Ferry Inn, Stromness

Looking for country charm and family fun? The Ferry Inn is a small but charming hotel situated in the dreamy harbour of Stromness, perfect for solo travellers and couples alike.

We hope this guide to visiting Orkney helps you plan your trip. Don’t forget to take a look at our guide to how to get to the Orkney Islands too.

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Visit Orkney - a Quick Planning Guide

Scotland's Egypt of the North, where even the Vikings were Johnny-Come-Latelies

Visit Orkney for the surprising and fascinating experience of what some archaeologists call the Egypt of the North.

Orkney is an archipelago of islands scattered, like a handful of pebbles tossed by a giant off the northernmost corner of Scotland. They are windswept and virtually treeless yet intensely green with a wild and lonely beauty.

Generations of seafarers, settlers and visitors have been attracted here to the edge of the world. The Vikings left their names, bits of their folklore and graffitti written in runes. But they were latecomers. The UNESCO World Heritage site that takes in most of the main island (called "the mainland" by Orcadians) protects Stone Age settlements and monuments that predate the Vikings by more than 4,000 years.

Happily for today's visitor - in search of wildlife, ancient and recent history, outdoor activities and a unique, Norse influenced culture - Orkney can be reached year round. It may take a bit more effort than hopping on a train but it is well worth it. And once there, you'll find plenty of comfortable places to stay, wonderful, fresh-from-the-sea cuisine, and lots of welcoming Orcadians. Use these resources to consider and plan a trip.

Will you like it?

It's a wild, windscoured place where human beings have come and go for millennia leaving little trace but lots of mysterious puzzles.Its villages seem more Scandinavian than British and they are few and far between. The salty tang of northern oceans is all around you.If you like exploring islands on the edge and find beauty in bleak northern landscapes, you will love it. Seeing is believing.

When is the best time to go?

There's something to be said for every season on Orkney:

• If you like outdoor activities you'll appreciate the long Northern days of late spring and summer - Orcadians have midnight golf events in May!
• On the other hand, Orkney's ancient monuments are less crowded and more dramatic in the wind and rain of winter. Winter is also when you might see The Merrie Dancers - Orcandian for the Aurora Borealis.
• Autumn is a time for migrating birds.
• In spring the sea birds nest on every available cliff, daffodils bloom in the gardens and the heather bursts into color.

Read more about Orkney weather then make up your own mind.

How to Get There

Flybe flies direct to Kirkwall Airport on the Orkney mainland from Aberdeen. Loganair, the Scottish airline, flies from Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Manchester, Shetland, and Bergen, Norway. Flights from London, the USA or Ireland connect at Glasgow, Edinburgh or Manchester. Most direct flights are an hour or less though flights with connections can take three or four hours because of waits between legs of the journey.

• John O'Groats Ferries run short, passenger-only crossings from John O'Groats to the Ferry Port at Burwick. There is coach transfer from Burwick to Kirkwall, the island capital. The service runs twice a day in May and September and three times a day in June, July and August. The trip takes 40 minutes. Bicycles are carried free and there is car parking in John O'Groats.
• Northlink Orkney & Shetland Ferries Sail year round between Aberdeen, Kirkwall and Lerwick in Shetland, and from Scrabster in Scotland to Stromness on Orkney. This is a large car ferry.
• Pentland Ferries sail between Gills Bay in Caithness to St. Margaret's Hope, an hour long, sheltered route for passengers and vehicles. This service is aboard a fast and futuristic looking vessel.

Where to Stay in Orkney

Hotel accommodation in Orkney ranges from old fashioned and basic to small and very comfortable. You won't find luxury boutique hotels but there are lovely guest houses with views, restaurants with rooms and plenty of self catering and B&B accommodation.

We've enjoyed stays at:

•   The Foveran , a lovely seafood restaurant with 8 cozy rooms, most with good views.
• The Sands Hotel , a small hotel with six modern,  en suite rooms and two suites on the shore at Burray, a small island connected to the Orkney mainland by a causeway.

Oysters , prawns, lobster, salmon, all kinds of fresh seafood -- what's not to like? And the island beef, seaweed-fed lamb, fresh berries, vegetables and local cheese are pretty special too. The restaurant scene on Orkney changes often. The Sands Hotel (see above) does very good scallops and fish. They can produce a lobster for you with 24 hours notice. The Foveran is essentially a restaurant with rooms so you can count on the day's catch, as well as local meat and vegetarian dishes done nicely. Your best bet is to ask the locals when you arrive. You may be surprised at the quality of the seafood and other dishes at unassuming looking little cafes in Kirkwall and Stromness.

Five Great Things to Do in Orkney

• Dive a shipwreck Make a guided dive to one of the German WWI shipwrecks in Scapa Flow. Or stay on the surface and explore the bottom through a remote submersible.
• Visit the Italian Chapel The church, built by Italian POWs during World War II, is a remarkable demonstration of faith in adversity and a must for visitors.
• Discover Orkney's Neolithic heartland Orkney's UNESCO World Heritage designation has earned it the nickname The Egypt of the North .
• Go whale watching You don't even have to go out in a boat to spot whales from Orkney's western shores.

Retail Therapy

You can't get very far from shopping anywhere these days. On Orkney the best goodies to take home are handmade by local craftspeople and designers. The islands attract craftspeople and artists from all over the United Kingdom who find inspiration in the archipelago's unique landscape and history. Expect to find locally made, beautiful ceramics, textiles, jewelry and wood products, much of which is sold in the shops of Kirkwall, Stromness, Dounby and St. Margaret's Hope.

The Orkney Craft Associations has put together the  Orkney Craft Trail   , made up of 21 locations where you can visit craftspeople in their studios and workshops, watch them work and buy their handcrafted objects. 

Some we liked were:

• Orkneyinga Silversmiths  Jewelry and large silver objects. Open workshop from 10a.m. to 5p.m., Monday - Saturday, Easter through September.
• Fluke Jewellery  Birsay jewelry maker inspired by marine life and nature. Open workshop May through September, Monday - Friday, 11a.m. to 5p.m.  Orkney telephone: 01856 721242
• The Woolshed  Handmade felt and knitwear from the fleece of the native, seaweed-eating, North Ronaldsay sheep. Natural wools for handknitters. Open workshop in Evie, April through September, Monday - Saturday, noon to 6p.m.; October to December, Saturdays, noon to 4p.m. Orkney telephone: 01856 751305
• Fursbreck Pottery  Andrew Appleby makes handcrafted pottery ranging from individual pieces to full dinner services in the village of Harray on Orkney. Thus he calls himself the "original Harray Potter". Recreations of ancient pottery styles. Open workshop April to Christmas, Monday-Saturday, 10a.m. to 6p.m. Sunday 2p.m. to 5:30p.m.
• Scapa Crafts  The makers of the unique and collectible traditional Orkney chairs, open from 10 a.m. to 5p.m., Monday to Friday, year round. Even if you aren't shopping for furniture, it's worth making a trip to their workshop to see these unusual chairs, made of wood and straw, take shape. There is almost always work in progress you can watch.

Annual Events Worth Knowing About

• Orkney Folk Festival For more than 20 years, modern and traditional folk artists from all over the world have gathered in Orkney, for four days in May, for concerts, workshops, ceilidhs and stomps. Most events take place in Stromness but some are staged in rural areas and on the smaller islands. The next event is May 23 to 26, 2019.
• The St. Magnus Festival Annual, midsummer festival of arts and music attracts world class performing artists. The festival includes drama, poetry, the visual arts, jazz, classical and contemporary music. Artists who have appeared in the past include Vladimir Ashkenazy, Andre Previn, Evelyn Glennie and Juliam Bream. In 2018, the festival dates are 22 to 28 June.

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Away With Maja

Orkney: what you need to know before you go.

Orkney… one of the most magical trips of my lifetime. This part of Scotland has been on my bucket list for years. After my 2020 trip was canceled due to the pandemic, I planned the trip of my dreams for June. This was one of the most exciting, fascinating, and rewarding destinations I have ever been to. Orkney is one of those places where you have to want to go there – you don’t just end up there by accident, you have to choose to visit. It may take a bit of work to get to Orkney, but trust me – it is so, so worth it. To prepare for your trip, here are all the things you need to know about Orkney before you go!

Where is Orkney?

Orkney is an archipelago of 70 islands, off the northeast coast of Scotland. There are 20 inhabited islands – the rest are uninhabited. Orkney is approximately 10 miles away from the coast.

How do you get to Orkney?

You have two options to get to Orkney: fly into Kirkwall Airport, or take the ferry. You can check out Loganair for options for flying into Kirkwall – Edinburgh , Glasgow, Inverness , Aberdeen, and Sumburgh (Shetland) all have direct flights. There are four options for the ferry to Orkney.

Scrabster to Stromness, with North Link Ferries

This is the journey I chose to take. I drove up to Scrabster (revisiting some of my favorite places on the North Coast 500 !), then took the ferry to Stromness. The journey is approximately 1.5 hours. A return trip for one adult with a car, and an overnight cabin on the early morning departure from Stromness (including breakfast), cost £201.20. I loved this particular journey because we sailed past the Old Man of Hoy ! If you don’t have your own car and are traveling as a foot passenger, Thurso is the nearest train station. Take Bus X99 from Thurso to the ferry terminal in Scrabster.

Gills Bay to St. Margaret’s Hope with Pentland Ferries

This journey takes 1 hour. Depending on your itinerary on Orkney, if you’re visiting South Ronaldsay at the end of your trip it may make sense to take the ferry from Scrabster to Stromness, and then from St. Margaret’s Hope back to Gills Bay. Or take Pentland Ferries both ways, whatever is best with your travel route.

Aberdeen to Kirkwall with North Link Ferries

North Link Ferries run an overnight ferry service from Aberdeen to Lerwick on Shetland, which stops at Kirkwall. The journey time is approximately 6 hours – typically you’ll get into Kirkwall just before midnight. If you don’t have your own car and are in the northeastern part of Scotland, this is a good option – Aberdeen has lots of train connections, including a direct route from London.

John O’Groats to Burwick with Jog Ferry

This is a foot-passenger-only ferry during the summer months, which operates from John O’Groats to Burwick. It only takes 40 minutes – you can book a tour of Orkney with them too if you like.

What is driving like on Orkney? What are the roads like?

Driving on Orkney is, for the most part, a breeze. All the main roads on the Mainland are one lane each way. Most roads outside of the main ones tend to be single-track, with passing places. Most of the passing places are clearly marked. The roads tend to be very straight, with good visibility of oncoming traffic – this makes passing/overtaking slower traffic fairly easy. That being said, it’s always polite to pull over and let other cars pass you if you’re driving slowly, and notice a build-up. Roads on the other islands tend to be single-track – for example, the road to Rackwick Bay on Hoy is single-track.

Mainland Orkney is, generally, quick to get around. It takes about 20 minutes to drive from Stromness to Kirkwall. To drive from Stromness to Burwick, at the very southern tip of South Ronaldsay, will take less than 1 hour.

What is phone signal like on Orkney?

Phone signal will vary depending on where you are. I had no signal the entire time I was on Hoy (going from Moaness to Rackwick Bay and the Old Man of Hoy) for instance. I also didn’t have signal on Papa Westray, although thankfully the wifi at my hostel worked great. There were also many areas on the Mainland, like around the Brough of Birsay, where I had no phone signal. I had great signal in Kirkwall and Stromness.

What is the weather like on Orkney?

Winters in Orkney tend to be fairly mild, but summer temperatures are also pretty mild. It was 65˚F (18˚C) and sunny during my day on Westray, and more than one person was complaining about how hot it was. Expect rain and fog regardless of what time of year you visit – although I happened to visit during a week with no rain and warm sunshine every day!! The main thing to prepare for is the wind – Orkney is infamous for its strong winds. In winter, be prepared for gales – the winds here can be strong enough to rip your car door off, so take care.

One thing to be aware of is the daylight hours on Orkney. During my visit at the beginning of June, there was nearly an extra hour or daylight in the morning and in the evening compared to where I live in York. This meant I could spend long days adventuring and exploring! But the reverse is true in winter – daylight hours are short, and it gets dark very early.

When is the best time to visit Orkney?

Well, it really depends on what you’re interested in and what kind of experience you want. The summer months of June, July, and August bring the best weather, long daylight hours, and most frequent transportation routes. Visiting in shoulder season (May and September) is a good choice if you’re wanting a quieter visit. For the best chance at seeing seabirds – including all those adorable puffins ! – visit between the end of April and end of July. The winter months see short daylight hours and fewer visitors – ferries run less frequently on their winter timetable, and some attractions are closed for the season.

For me personally, I enjoy hiking, historic sites, and puffins. If you do too, I recommend visiting Orkney in May or June. There are a few local festivals and events that would make for a really special visit, if you can time it right! Here are some top Orkney festivals:

• Orkney Folk Festival – several days of folk music, based primarily in Stromness (end of May)
• North Ronaldsay Sheep Festival – learn about the native seaweed-eating sheep on the island (beginning of August)
• Festival of the Horse and Ploughing Match – a unique contest where young girls dress up in elaborate costumes and young boys try to plough the best line, taking place on the Sands O’Wright on South Ronaldsay (middle of August)
• The Ba’ – a huge street football game in Kirkwall (Christmas Day and New Year’s Day)

How many days do I need to visit Orkney?

I recommend a minimum of 3 days for a trip to Orkney. This will give you time to explore the top highlights of the Mainland, and the Barrier Islands and South Ronaldsay. However, 5 days are preferred if you’re wanting to visit any other islands, such as Hoy. While Hoy can be done as a daytrip, it’s a lot of walking to see the Old Man of Hoy – and there’s quite a bit to see on the southern part of the island, too.

Ideally, I’d recommend 7-8 days to fully enjoy Orkney . This will give you time to explore the Mainland fully, visit the Barrier Islands and South Ronaldsay, head over to Hoy , and visit one or two of northern islands, like Westray and Papa Westray . If you’re not pressed for time, two full weeks would be excellent. You should be able to see most of the islands (the above plus Rousay, Sanday, Shapinsay, and Stronsay, for example) in this time.

I spent 8 days visiting Orkney. While I felt like it was “enough” time to do the major things on my itinerary and bucket list, I did feel like I missed out on other things. I didn’t visit Rousay or Sanday, which I would really wish I’d had more time for. Don’t try to rush your time on Orkney. Which brings me to my next point…

Can I visit Orkney as a daytrip?

Yes, you can visit Orkney as a daytrip. However, I can only condone visiting Orkney for one day if this is your only trip to Scotland, and you never intend to return to the country for the rest of your life. Visiting Orkney for one day is, simply put, an injustice. Yes, you can see some of the top attractions – Kirkwall, Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, etc. But you won’t get a real feel for Orkney, and you certainly won’t be able to immerse yourself in the islands on a single day.

What should I do about money on Orkney?

There are no ATMs on some of the smaller islands. Neither Westray nor Papa Westray has an ATM on the island, so if you’re visiting and think you’ll need cash, get cash out before you arrive. The post office on Westray can issue cash back if you need it. Check locally, and don’t just assume there will be an ATM! There are plenty of ATMs in Kirkwall.

Card payments are generally accepted everywhere, including on the ferries and on the northern islands. I rarely use cash these days (one of those side effects of the pandemic , I think) and rely on card payments 95% of the time. I was a bit worried about visiting Orkney – what if I went to these remote places and nowhere took card? That’s not something you should worry about. Pretty much everywhere I went on Orkney accepted card payments.

However, some of the tours I did and the hostel I stayed at on Westray required payment in cash. This was made clear to me at the time of booking, so I knew to be prepared and get out cash in Kirkwall before I left! If in doubt, ask. The only time I needed cash and didn’t know this in advance was on the ferry to Shapinsay. The card machine was broken and we were asked to pay in cash (exact change if possible) – the guy told us this before we boarded. So maybe it’s best to have a small amount of cash with you for situations like this.

Where should I stay on Orkney?

If you’re visiting for a short amount of time (3 days or less), I recommend basing yourself in or around Kirkwall. This will mean most of the places you want to visit will be about equidistant from each other. The other main town, Stromness, is a good base for a trip, too. That being said, the Mainland is easy to get around, so you can really stay anywhere and it won’t be inconvenient. I absolutely recommend staying overnight on at least one other island besides the Mainland. I wild camped almost every night of my Orkney trip – the only accommodation I had booked was on Westray and Papa Westray, and the overnight cabin on the early ferry leaving Stromness.

Can I camp on Orkney?

The Scottish Outdoor Access Code allows wild camping anywhere in Scotland, including on Orkney, provided you leave no trace and use common sense when picking a spot. Only stay one, two, or three nights (absolute maximum), and in small numbers. Don’t camp in enclosed fields or fields with livestock, which is a lot of Mainland Orkney to be quite honest. The coastal areas, and particularly beaches, make for great wild camping spots – if the wind isn’t too bad. It’s easy to leave your car overnight and hike to a camp spot, as the vast majority of car parks don’t have any restrictions on overnight parking.

What should I pack for my trip to Orkney?

Read my Orkney packing guide here ! Essentially, you’ll want to bring the same things as for any trip in Scotland: waterproof rain jacket and rain pants, sturdy boots for hiking , and plenty of layers. I recommend binoculars , to make it easier to spot the amazing wildlife on Orkney! I’d also suggest the Orkney Bradt Guidebook – I planned so much of my trip using this book, it really is an amazing resource.

How much does it cost to visit Orkney?

You can read my full Orkney budget guide here ! In short, it’ll really depend on what kind of trip you’re taking. My trip was definitely a budget trip, and I wild camped for the majority of it. I splurged on the experiences that meant the most to me, but I made an effort to keep costs low for most other things.

Travel Tips for Visiting Orkney

Be prepared to live island life – it’s more laid back ..

Not everything is a huge rush here. Sometimes things take a bit longer. Give yourself extra time and breathing room when you are making plans. The weather can be unpredictable and cause disruptions – heavy rain or strong winds can necessitate plans changing. Ferries or flights can be delayed or canceled. When this happens, be patient and try to go with the flow – it’s just a normal part of life here.

If you are booking inter-island flights (such as the shortest commercial flight in the world , between Westray and Papa Westray), I’d recommend having at least one day either side of your itinerary on the Mainland in case of cancelations. The Barefoot Backpacker got stranded on Papa Westray for three days, due to bad weather, reduced timetables, and covid restrictions! So give yourself breathing room, just in case.

Orkney sees a large number of cruise ships tourists, so plan accordingly.

Kirkwall is the busiest cruise port in the UK. I highly recommend visiting top sites like Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Italian Chapel early in the morning or late in the afternoon. But even when I visited Skara Brae right after a coach of cruise ship passengers arrived, I didn’t find it too detrimental to my experience.

There is free and plentiful long-stay parking available.

It won’t be an issue if you’re planning on visiting some of the other islands and leaving your car on Mainland Orkney. There is a very large free car park in Kirkwall, and a car park with spaces on either side of Ferry Road in Stromness for long-stay and overnight parking. It costs £3 per day to park at Kirkwall Airport (island residents get free parking). Besides the airport, I never needed to pay for parking. I also never struggled to find a parking spot – nowhere I went was too crowded.

There are free bathrooms throughout Orkney, particularly on the Mainland.

Don’t worry about needing to find a toilet – or paying for one. There are lots of toilets and every one I went to was free. This is especially important if you are wild camping or sleeping in a van! But have no fear, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

If you are a Historic Scotland or English Heritage member, you can save a lot of money on Orkney.

A lot of the historic sites around Orkney are operated by Historic Scotland. They have a reciprocal arrangement with English Heritage for free entry for members. You can save a lot of money if you have a membership with either of these organizations – I’m an English Heritage member, you can join here ! An annual adult membership for Historic Scotland is only £45 for the year, and you can easily make up over half of that money by visiting sites around Orkney. If you go to one or two more sites (such as Edinburgh Castle or Stirling Castle) within the year, you’d easily break even.

If you want to visit Maeshowe, you need to book in advance.

Entrance to Maeshowe Chambered Cairn , one of the top historic sites on Orkney and part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site, is by guided tour only. You need to book your tickets in advance – and I mean way in advance. They were booked solid for the week I was there, so I missed out. I’d recommend checking their website at least 2-3 weeks before your visit to get a timeslot locked in!

Orkney has incredible opportunities for spotting wildlife.

Seabirds reign supreme here, and it’s one of the best places in Britain for seeing puffins (in my personal, highly researched opinion). You’ll likely see lots of seals, and hopefully dolphins, porpoises, and whales, too. There were orcas in Scapa Flow just days before I got there! The crew member on the ferry to Hoy told me that there was a minke whale following the boat on the crossing just the day before. I saw a sea eagle or a golden eagle (I’m not sure which) stretch its wings on my walk back from the Old Man of Hoy. It’s just… wonderful.

Online Resources for Orkney

Orkney Public Toilets Map – this is a super useful map of all of the public toilets on Orkney. Like I said, you won’t struggle to find one!

Google Maps – there are a lot of areas across the Orkney Islands that don’t have phone signal, so download Google Maps offline before your trip.

Orkney Ferries – if you’re planning on taking the ferry on any inter-island route, Orkney Ferries has all the published timetables, as well as fares.

Orkney Harbour (Cruise Ships) – find out the schedule for cruise ship arrivals on the Orkney Islands Council Harbour Authority website.

Orkney Cetacean Facebook Group – get up to date with whale and dolphin spottings around Orkney! This is meant to be especially good if you’re on the lookout for orcas.

Interested in joining a tour in Orkney? Check out the options below!

My trip to Orkney was one of the most spectacular trips of my life. I don’t think I have ever experienced such genuine daily happiness and joy before. This is an incredible destination, one that needs to be on your bucket list. I did an insane amount of research and prep work before I went, and it was so worth it as I had the best trip of my life. With the right amount of preparation, you can also live out your dreams in Orkney! I hope this post helps in planning your trip to Orkney in Scotland!

Have you been to Orkney before? What are your top travel tips?

You might also like my posts:

The Complete Orkney Guide: An 8-Day Itinerary for the Orkney Islands

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Orkney on a Budget?

What to Pack for a Trip to Orkney, Scotland

Where to See Puffins on Orkney

Hoy, Orkney: Visiting the Old Man of Hoy and Rackwick Bay

A Travel Guide for Papa Westray, Orkney

What to See and Do on Westray, Orkney

The World’s Shortest Commercial Flight: Papa Westray to Westray With Loganair

What You Need to Know About the North Coast 500 in Scotland Before You Go

All of my Scotland posts !

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12 thoughts on “ orkney: what you need to know before you go ”.

[…] trip to Orkney in June was the adventure of a lifetime. I had so many bucket list experiences and got to see and […]

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[…] of the top reasons I was obsessed with visiting Orkney? I wanted to take the shortest commercial flight in the world, which is between two of the small […]

[…] trip to Orkney in June was one of the top highlights of my year, my (nearly) 6 years living in the UK, and […]

[…] so many others, I visited Orkney in the hopes of seeing the Old Man of Hoy. At 449ft (137m), this is the tallest sea stack in […]

[…] Westray is one of the smallest inhabited islands in Orkney, the incredible archipelago off the north coast of Scotland. It’s only about 4 miles long, and 1 […]

[…] is one of the small North Isles that make up the Orkney archipelago, off the north coast of Scotland. So many people skip these islands or don’t have […]

[…] More: Orkney: What You Need to Know Before You Go, What to Pack For a Trip to Orkney, Scotland, How Much Does it Cost to Visit Orkney on a Budget?, […]

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[…] you have extra time though, I highly recommend a detour off the North Coast 500 to visit Orkney. You can visit as a daytrip from John O’Groats in summer, but you really need to spend a few days […]

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Travel to Orkney

Have a peaceful getaway in the Scottish Isles A land of quiet and beauty.

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Featured Places

Leave your home in safe hands, perhaps get it cleaned whilst you're away and head over to Orkney for some breathtaking views!

Ring of Brodgar

#1 If you're a history nut then you most certainly want to take the time to visit the Rings of Brodgar, it's a local favourite.

Bishop’s & Earl's Palaces

#2 Take a trip to the bishops and earls palace, grab a bite to eat and spend some time with the kids exploring the local area.

Italian Chapel

#3 The local Christian community is a very welcoming bunch that love to see new faces attend their weekly mass, go and see for yourself!

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13 Things To Do In Orkney Islands: A 3-Day Itinerary

Last Updated on November 1, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

If you’re planning a trip to the far north of Scotland, you may be wondering if there are enough things to do in Orkney to justify a visit – especially for multiple days. This archipelago consisting of nearly 70 islands located just 15 kilometres off the north coast of Scotland is perhaps one of the most interesting areas to visit in all of the country.

Spending 2 or 3 days in Orkney exploring the countless archaeological sites, charming towns and striking wild beauty is the perfect way to experience the peace, tranquillity and history of these islands. Boasting a dramatic coastline, pastoral images and neolithic remains that are older than the Pyramids of Giza, Orkney makes for a wonderful Sottish island destination.

If you’re wondering what to do in Orkney, use this guide to help you plan up to 3 days exploring this gorgeous archipelago.

Table of Contents

Best Time of Year to Visit Orkney

Let’s discuss the best time to visit these northern Scottish isles. Like the rest of Scotland, Orkney sees its fair share of rain and grey days and temperatures in excess of 17-18°C (62-64°F) are considered very warm indeed.

Like the rest of the country, the most popular time of year to visit Orkney will be in the summer months between July and August. This is when you will see the warmest temperatures (average highs in these months are about 16°C (60°F)), have the most accommodation options open to you, and have the driest and longest days.

Some of the most popular sites in Orkney might be more crowded in the summer than in the other seasons, however, nothing is ever too overrun on the islands.

In contrast, the least popular time to come to Orkney will be in the winter months. Because of its far northern geography, Orkney sees only a few hours of absolute daylight in the height of winter. Though temperatures don’t generally dip too far below freezing (average highs are about 6-9°C (42-48°F)), the lack of light can make sightseeing inconvenient and many accommodations will close for business during this low season.

If you do visit in spring or autumn, expect more rain than in summer and some cooler temperatures. However, it will not be as cold as in winter, nor will the days be as short. Average highs in the spring and autumn months generally land somewhere between 10-14°C (50-57°F) depending on the month.

Getting To & Around the Orkney Islands

The Orkney archipelago is, to be redundant, made up of islands, and therefore the easiest and most straightforward way to reach them is by ferry. There are a few ferries that leave from the Scottish mainland and arrive into either Stromness or Kirkwall on mainland Orkney (the largest island) from both Aberdeen and Scrabster in the north of Scotland.

The ferries depart frequently and journeys can vary in price depending on your departure location and whether or not you are bringing a car with you.

The ferry journey is absolutely beautiful in itself and it will allow you to get great views of the Old Man of Hoy – a sea stack on the island of Hoy south of Orkney Mainland.

Once you are in Orkney, the easiest way to get around is by car, as there isn’t really a public transport system so to speak on the islands and most sites are fairly far-flung.

If you want to rent a car while visiting Orkney, we suggest browsing Rent alcars.com to compare prices from many major companies.

If you don’t want to drive when you’re visiting Orkney, one option is to take a multi-day tour from Inverness which allows you to see the main attractions and some of the lesser-visited islands. Both this 3-day tour or this 3-day tour include all transportation, accommodation, guides and some meals.

13 Best Things to Do in Orkney: A 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – explore the heart of neolithic orkney.

The first day of this itinerary has you exploring some of the best sites in mainland Orkney, the biggest island. The collection of four major sites (Maeshow, the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness and Skara Brae) are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney.

No site is more than a twenty-minute drive from either Kirkwall or Stromness and some are no more than three minutes away from each other. If you only have one day in Orkney, then I would recommend just sticking to the activities listed for this first day in order to properly enjoy everything.

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

The Maeshowe Chambered Cairn is considered one of the best-preserved Neolithic tombs of its kind in Europe, making it one of the top things to see in Orkney. Dating back more than 5,000 years, it is an ancient burial site.

Perhaps the most fascinating thing, however, is the remnants the Vikings left when they discovered the cairn. Nearly 3,000 years after the tomb was erected, the Viking invaders left their mark within it with some interesting Norse graffiti. I guess some things will never change.

One of the biggest disappointments of our trip to Orkney was the fact that we weren’t able to tour this ancient Neolithic tomb. I was unaware that they only allow a finite number of people in per day and that it is essential if you’re travelling in peak season, as we were, that you book at least two weeks in advance. Learn from my mistake and make sure you can visit this fascinating archaeological site.

Standing Stones of Stenness

As anyone capable of a simple Google search will know, standing stone henges are fairly ubiquitous in Scotland and particularly in Orkney. What makes the Standing Stones of Stenness especially interesting, however, is that they are believed to be the oldest still standing henge in Britain.

Originally consisting of up to 12 stones, all arranged in a perfect circle, only four stones remain in this ancient site. While archaeologists are still relatively unsure of their purpose, it is impossible to deny their magnificence.

Ring of Brodgar

The Ring of Brodgar is located just a few paces away and it is probably the most awe-inspiring stone ring in Orkney. We got there early and were able to walk around the 104-meter circle in the company of only one other couple.

The smallest stones in the henge stand at 2 meters tall with the largest clocking in well above 4 meters. While only 27 of the original 60 stones remain, this is the third-largest stone circle in Britain.

Skara Brae might be the site I was most excited to see on our travels through Orkney. Dating back to 3180 BCE, this perfectly preserved Neolithic village is older than the Pyramids of Giza and is colloquially known as the “Scottish Pompeii.”

The story behind its discovery is fascinating as well…after a devastating wind storm in 1850, a local farmer assessing the damage to his fields found that the wind had mostly uncovered this ancient village.

The visitor centre at Skara Brae houses an excellent exhibit of the discoveries that have been uncovered here and it is one of the things you absolutely cannot miss when you visit these islands and it is one of the best places to visit in Orkney.

Orkney Brewery

If visiting all of these archaeological has left you a bit peckish, consider visiting the Orkney Brewery . This award-winning microbrewery offers a great tour where you can sample some of their fantastic beers and also quite a good restaurant.

While you can find the beers brewed here on tap at most pubs in Orkney, it is really great to visit and find out how it’s all made. Perhaps the most famous beer to come out of the brewery is the Dark Island Reserve – an ale that boasts roughly 10% alcohol by volume, it has won countless accolades at various prestigious beer awards. It’s not cheap, but it’s truly phenomenal.

Day 2 – Explore Kirkwall

With the first two days in this itinerary jam-packed with visits to archaeological sites, I would recommend spending your final day exploring Orkney’s capital “city” of Kirkwall. A charming town with a lot of history, there are many things to do in Kirkwall and can easily be explored on foot.

The Orkney Museum

If you want to find out more about the history of Orkney from the Neoliths to the Vikings to its position in the Second World War to life in the present day, head to the Orkney Museum . Like many museums in the UK, this museum is entirely free to visit and is one of the best things to do in Orkney.

Wander Around Kirkwall

After your distillery tour and museum visit, if the weather is fine, take some time to stroll along the harbour and through the picturesque streets of Kirkwall. Also make sure to take in the lovely St Magnus Cathedral, which is located next to the Orkney Museum and is the oldest cathedral in Scotland.

There are also a number of cute shops and cafes to pop into as well as some charming local pubs.

In fact, if you’re caught in the middle of a downpour (which is not uncommon) wait out the rain in a pub and chat to some of the incredibly friendly locals. You will almost always find someone who is willing to share a pint and some stories with you.

Highland Park Distillery

One of the best places to visit in Orkney is to take a tour of the Highland Park distillery . Even if you’re not a whisky fan, this may well be one of the best single malt distilleries to visit in all of Scotland. Highland Park is one of only a handful of Scotch distilleries that actually malts their own barley.

Day 3 – Explore South Ronaldsay

After a long day previously exploring the main sites on Mainland Orkney, the second day of this Orkney itinerary sees you crossing the Churchill Barriers across Scapa Flow to the southernmost island in the archipelago: South Ronaldsay. This small island also boasts a number of archaeological sites and also a really fantastic restaurant.

The Tomb of the Eagles

Similarly to Skara Brae, this 5,000-year-old tomb was discovered by a local farmer in the 1950s. A visit to the Tomb of the Eagles is by far one of the most interesting places to visit in Orkney, as it is an important site and can give incredible insight to how life was lived thousands of years ago.

You start your tour at the visitor centre, where they give a 15-minute talk about what has been discovered and let you handle actual ancient artefacts.

The tomb itself is about a mile’s walk from the centre and is incredibly scenic, but make sure to dress appropriately! Even if the day starts as sunny, the weather can turn at the flip of a switch and you can easily get soaked in a matter of minutes.

Unfortunately, this museum is temporarily closed for 2023 and it’s unclear when it will reopen. However, it is one of our favourite sites in Orkney and could open up again in the future.

Skerries Bistro

After working up an appetite walking out to visit the Tomb of the Eagles, it’s time for lunch! Skerries Bistro is a fantastic option on South Ronaldsay and it serves a lot of fantastic and fresh local seafood.

When we visited here, we started with delicious creamy seafood chowder, had beautifully seared scallops and a seafood platter for mains and polished it all off with a freshly baked strawberry and rhubarb crumble.

The food was absolutely delicious and our only regret was discovering this place on our last day meaning we couldn’t make a repeat visit!

The Italian Chapel

Orkney was a strategic area during WWII and there is an incredible amount of history on the islands solely relating to that, the most famous of which would probably be the Italian Chapel. Built by Italian POWs who wanted a place to worship, this chapel is truly a fantastic piece of both art and history and a visit is one of the top things to see in Orkney.

Orkney Wine Company

Located right next to the Italian Chapel, the Orkney Wine Company is an excellent place to visit in this area. They sell a range of wines and liquors all made by hand and from natural ingredients grown on the island.

They’re very generous here with tastings and will allow you to sample a number of wines or liquors before you make a decision.

Deerness Distillery

If you’re looking for a unique experience, then consider visiting the Deerness Distillery . Located in the far east of Mainland Orkney, this is a great place to stop on your drive back to Kirkwall. This small, family-run distillery not only makes their own whisky, but they also do spirits like vodka and gin, as well.

Where to stay in Orkney

The main city of Kirkwall is arguably the best place to base yourself when exploring Orkney. Centrally located to be able to explore the top attractions of the archipelago and also situated near several great restaurants and pubs, there are lots of places to choose from when you’re searching for accommodation.

However as Orkney is a small island, we do recommend booking accommodation in advance as the good places go quickly.

Private Rental — One great option for accommodation is a private holiday rental and there are a number of fantastic places such as this cosy apartment in central Kirkwall .

Kirkwall Youth Hostel — Kirkwall Youth Hostel is a great budget option to explore the islands. They offer both dorm beds and private rooms and come with high ratings, is very clean, and has a great and helpful staff.

Heatherlea — Also located in Kirkwall, Heatherlea is a lovely bed and breakfast to stay at if you’re looking for a bit more comfort during your stay in Orkney. They have a range of rooms available and also include a full Scottish breakfast in their rates.

Not what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Orkney hotels!

While there are many more things to do on these beautiful islands, these are some of the top attractions to see if you only have a short period of time. It is one of my favourite places in Scotland and they deserve to be explored to their fullest.

Are you planning to a trip to Orkney? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments below!

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16 Things To Do In Mull: A 2 to 3-Day Itinerary

The Perfect Loch Ness Day Trip from Edinburgh

Scotland or Ireland: Which Country Should You Visit?

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

It seems that an Orkney itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a distillery! Actually, it seems that’s the case for most of the places in Scotland we are researching for our upcoming trip!!!

Thanks for sharing a few ideas on things to see that aren’t just distilleries and ancient sites (yes, I know the ancient sites are part of what the Orkney’s are known for), it’s good to see more of what else is there.

Glad you found the article helpful, Matt! Hope you have a great time in Orkney — it’s a really magical place 🙂

Hello! I am planning a visit in August, but I don’t drive. Do you have any suggestions for me? Last time in Scotland I managed very well without a car, but I didn’t make it to Orkney. Thank you.

Hey Paula, you probably won’t have any trouble getting to Orkney without a car (take the bus to Scrabster and then the ferry to Stromness), but actually getting around the islands is going to prove difficult if you don’t have a car, especially if you want to travel independently. If you’re set on visiting Orkney anyway, I would have a look and see what kind of organised tours you can find (you can browse some here ). It will be a great way to see all of the amazing sites without having to worry about driving!

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How to visit: Orkney

By: Author Kate @ Love from Scotland

Posted on Last updated: 21 March 2024

Hello, Orkney! With stone-age villages, huge sea-scapes, a vibrant arts culture and a genuinely warm welcome (and not just from the Orkney gin!) we took a weekend trip to Orkney to dip into 5000 years of history. Here’s how to visit Orkney. 

This is a paid partnership with Destination Orkney . Take a look behind the scenes of my visit over on Orkney.com!

Orkney might not be short on time, but if you are…

• Discover the incredible Skara Brae, a 5000-year-old Neolithic village
• Walk around the Ring of Brodgar – and wonder at how they built it
• Find out the story behind the beautiful Italian Chapel
• Climb up to the Kitchener Memorial above 100m cliffs filled with seabirds
• Visit the Pier Arts Centre in Stromness – for gorgeous architecture and even better art!

Got longer? Here is how to plan a visit to Orkney

We visited Orkney for a long weekend and visited the West Mainland, East Mainland and explored the towns of Kirkwall and Stromness.

From the simply incredible Heart of Neolithic Orkney to tales of invading Vikings and World War 2 battles, spiritual awakening in gin, whisky and St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, to walks along a coast constantly being changed by time, with a history stretching back 5000 years, you won’t be short of things to do when you visit Orkney. 

There might be no trees, but there are plenty of standing stones…

The need to know before you visit Orkney

• Orkney might feel like it is end-of-the-world-remote but the islands are actually just 10 miles off the coast of Scotland. You can get to Orkney from the Scottish mainland in just 1 hour – either by catching a ferry from the  North Coast 500 at Scrabster or John O’Groats or flying with LoganAir from Inverness, Aberdeen, Glasgow or Edinburgh. A weekend break in Orkney is easier than visiting the Isle of Skye, Islay or Mull.
• Orkney is an archipelago of 70 islands, 20 of which are inhabited. The largest of the islands is called ‘the Mainland’ or just ‘Mainland’ (and the Orcadians don’t mean the Scottish mainland) and is the 6th largest island in Scotland. Around 22,000 people live in Orkney, just under half of which live in the bustling capital of Kirkwall.
• It is crazy to imagine but Orkney has been inhabited for over 8000 years – and the Orkney Islands have only been inhabited by the Scots for 1.8% of that time! The islands have been home to stone-age nomadic tribes, iron age Picts, Norse Viking settlers and finally in 1468 ownership of the islands was passed to Scotland.
• Orkney is pronounced ‘Orc-nee’ and the name is thought to come from the Norse name Orkneyjar – ‘Seal Islands’ or from the Pictish name – ‘Boar Island’. Orkney is also known as Arcaibh in Gaelic, but the Gaelic language is not traditionally spoken in Orkney – any sign of the Gaels in Orkney were most likely driven out by the Vikings.
• The Orcadians have a gorgeously sing-song accent which is quite unlike any Scottish accent you will have ever heard. These days the Orkney dialect might be mostly Scots, but it has roots in ‘the Norn’ the dialect spoken by Norsemen – and the Orcadian accent today still sounds like a lovely mix of Scots and Scandinavian.

Things to do in Orkney Map

The West Mainland – Neolithic Orkney and Viking Villages

From the storm-battered Bay of Birsay to the ferry across to the Island of Hoy, West Mainland is home to some of Scotland’s most treasured landscapes – and historic marvels.

The Heart of Neolithic Orkney

On a long promontory or ‘ness’ between two lochs, surrounded by a huge bowl of low hills, sits the Heart of Neolithic Orkney , an incredibly well preserved stone-age community and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visiting the Heart of Neolithic Orkney tells a truly vivid story of life on these islands 5000 years ago. 

It turns out that the ancient residents of Orkney didn’t just scratch a living on these windswept islands. Instead, they were organised and ingenious, living in sophisticated settlements, built massive ceremonial stone circles, and buried their dead in huge chambered cairns. The monuments left behind by the ancient Orcadians are incredibly well preserved – and only hint at what is still left to be discovered.

How to visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney

• Follow the Heart of Neolithic Orkney itinerary route to make the most of your time in the World Heritage site.
• Think about getting an Orkney Explorer Pass from Historic Environment Scotland. It will save you £20, but you need to be really into history to make the most of it – and want to visit all the paid attractions in Orkney.

The Ring of Brodgar and the Stones of Stenness

Step amongst Orkney’s standing stones and you will truly feel like a dwarf standing on the shoulders of giants. Whether you believe Orkney’s 5000-year-old stone rings were raised for celebration or grief, to monitor the stars or the seasons, or were really built by aliens or time travellers – without any hyperbole intended, they are awe-inspiring.

Ask yourself, how did the builders of the Ring of Brodgar measure a true circle 2500 years before Archimedes? How were giant stone slabs up to six meters high dragged from seven different quarries up to 10 miles away? How was a ditch 104 meters in length, ten meters wide and four meters deep dug by without the use of metal tools? I’m with time travellers.

• Visiting the ring of Brodgar and Stones of Stenness is free. Guided walks of the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness with more sensible suggestions about how the circles were built are run in summer.
• Watch out for The Watchstone – one of the largest of the standing stones is right by the roadside – and in the dark, it is pretty intimidating when it appears suddenly in your headlights! The stone used to be one of a pair, marking the entrance to the Ring of Brodgar complex.

Skara Brae – a 5000-year-old stone-age village

Discovered after a storm in 1850, Skara Brae is one of the world’s best stone-age sites. Made up of nine identical houses built with nothing but stone and animal tools, complete with box beds and stone dressers and even luxuries such as indoor fires for heating – who were the residents of the 5000-year-old Skara Brae?

Leaving behind just pots, jewellery and tools, little is known about who once lived in Skara Brae – or why they left the village behind. Like today, did the teenagers eventually leave for the brighter lights of the (newly discovered) town at the Ness of Brodgar? Or did something more apocalyptic happen to them, leaving the homes to be hidden by the passage of time… visit Skara Brae and try and work out for yourself. 

• Tickets for Skara Brae are part of the Orkney Explorer Pass or £6.50 for adults, £5.20 concessions, £3.90 per child.
• In summer, you will need to book a time slot to ensure entrance.

Maeshowe – more than just a burial mound

Burial mounds and cairns can be found right across Scotland, but Meashowe is probably the most fascinating – and not just because it was built to house the dead in 2500 BC.

Carved out by huge slabs of rock, the interior of the cairn has been orientated exactly so that on the winter solstice the setting sun shines up entranceway and illuminates the chamber. Considering it must have taken years for the huge slabs to have been piled up to make the cairn – imagine if they’d got it wrong by even 10cms…

What is even more fascinating is that the cairn also contains one of the largest examples of Viking inscriptions in the world – many of which are just simple ‘i woz eerr’ type graffiti (nothing changes!) or are just simply rude. Although on inspiration  “to the north-west is a great treasure hidden. It was long ago that a great treasure was hidden here” intrigued me – to the north-west of Maeshowe is the Ness of Brodgar and it’s stone ring… maybe the Orkney archaeological digs will one day dig up some Viking treasure!

• Tickets for Maeshowe are part of the Orkney Explorer Pass or £6 for adults, £4.80 concessions, £3.60 per child.
• It is recommended you book in advance to visit Maeshowe
• You can also go on a virtual reality tour of Maeshowe with a 3D app!

Walk the west coast: Yesnaby, Marwick Head & the Kitchener Memorial

The west coast of Orkney from Stromness to Birsay is linked by a 20-mile coastal path. The path is best walked in two sections – Stromness to Skara Brae and the Bay of Skaill to Birsay.

Between Stromness and Skara Brae is Yesnaby – a series of stunning red sandstone sea cliffs dropping 100m into the Atlantic Ocean. Battered by storms and waves, the coast at Yesnaby is constantly changing, creating arches, sea stacks and blowholes. 

In spring and summer puffins can be spotted here – but watch out, the cliffs are crumbly and it is dangerous to stray too close to the edge. The most famous feature at Yesnaby is the Castle, a two-legged sea stack – popular with climbers!

To the north of the Bay of Skail is Marwick Head Nature Reserve and a memorial to a tale of Russian spies and sabotage, conspiracy theories, bribery and gold and the loss of World War 1 hero, Lord Kitchener of “ your country needs you ” fame along with 736 sailors in the sinking of cruiser H.M.S. Hampshire on the 5 June 1916. The Kitchener Memorial, a 15-metre tower was raised in 1926 by the people of Orkney.

Today the memorial sits in a rather dramatic position on the Marwick Head cliffs – surrounded by seabird packed along the cliff edges and whales and dolphins pass by. The walk up to the memorial is a beautiful one – and on a clear day has views all the way back to the Old Man of Hoy. 

Nearby to Yesnaby is the Orkney Folklore & Storytelling Centre which offers events, courses and workshops, including folklore storytelling sessions, great for kids.

Birsay – explore a Viking village

The story of Orkney’s Vikings is a well known one and documented in the famous “Orkneyinga Saga’ written in Iceland in the 12th century. The village of Birsay in Orkney’s far north-west coast was once the seat of Earl Thorfinn the Mighty, the most powerful of all the Viking Earls, and outlines of longhouses can still be seen on the Brough of Birsay today.

The Brough of Birsay is a tidal island, crossed only at low tide by a causeway. The island is best accessed between June and September but can be very carefully reached 2 hours each side of low tide . If the tide is in, follow the cliffside path to Skippa Geo to see Birsay’s unusual Whalebone sculpture.

• Follow the Orkneyinga Saga itinerary to find out about the Viking’s link with Orkney
• Explore the Brough of Birsay and Earl’s Palace
• Visit Barony Mill – Orkney’s only working watermill and home of Orkney beremeal (ancient form of barley) since 1873.

East Mainland – for the Italian Chapel and Scapa Flow

The East Mainland might not have a world heritage site, but it is full of history it is just a little more recent! Explore relics from the second world war including the stunning Italian Chapel and visit a nature reserve with a hidden waterfall.

The Italian Chapel & POW camp

On the tiny island of Lamb Holm, just off the coast of Orkney Mainland is an Orkney oddity. Built by Italian POWs, the Italian Chapel is a thought-provoking remnant of the Second World War.  In 1942, 1300 Italian prisoners of war were captured in North Africa and transported to Orkney to build the ‘Churchill Barriers’ – strategic defences for Scapa Flow which was acting as the main British naval base during the Second World War.

Led by Father Giacombazzi, the POW camp’s priest, two Nissen Huts were joined together to make a chapel for the camp. The interior was painted with beautiful and intricate designs by artist Domenico Chiocchetti and church facade made out of leftover concrete from the barrier. Whilst the interior of the church is beautiful, the story of what happened after the war is even more so.

Following the end of the war, the POWs were released back to Italy, but Chiocchetti stayed to finish the now consecrated church. In 1960 and 1964 Chiocchetti returned to Orkney to assist with the renovation – and in 2017, at a mass was held to mark the Chapel’s 70th anniversary, at which his daughter, Angela, sang.   

Our visit to the chapel was especially moving. My grandfather was also captured as a POW in North Africa in 1941, but he was fighting for the allies. He was taken to Italy. He was also an artist and loved painting the tiny Italian churches – just like the one in Orkney. He survived the war, and my parents recently visited Italy to see where he was taken and to visit one of the chapels. You can read all about his stay at Campo 52 .

• Entry to the Italian Chapel is £3 per person.
• Follow the War Time Itinerary to find out more about Orkney’s role in the first and second World Wars

Scapa Flow, The Churchill Barriers & Blockships 

At the heart of Orkney is Scapa Flow a huge natural harbour used since the arrival of the Vikings but most famous for its role during the first and second world war as the Naval base for the British fleet.

Scapa flow is full of relics of past wars, including seven German battleships and cruisers scuttled following the end of the first world war, war graves including battleship HMS Royal Oak which was destroyed by a U Boat with the loss of 833 sailors, along with blockships – boats purposely scuttled to protect the harbour. Not surprisingly Scapa Flow is now a popular scuba diving site.

Scapa Flow is separated from the North Sea by the ‘Churchill Barriers’ (yes, named after the Prime Minister) built during WW2 to protect the harbour from invading German U Boats following the sinking of HMS Royal Oak. You can drive all four of the Churchill Barriers from Mainland to Lamb Holm, Glimps Holm, Burray and South Ronaldsay, spotting the Navy blockships which are still rusting away above the waterline.

• You can visit the Scapa Flow Visitor Centre on the Isle of Hoy
• The bell from the HMS Royal Oak now hangs in a memorial in St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall.

Walk the east coast: Mull Head & The Gloop

Connected to the rest of the Mainland by Deer Sound, the Deerness peninsula is well worth the drive east. At the most eastern tip of the peninsula is Mull Head, a Nature Reserve made up of 160 ha of cliffs home to hundreds of seabirds including Kittiwakes, Guillemots and Razorbills in summer. The reserve is also a great place to spot basking seals!

Park at the Mull Head car park and walk out onto the headland – first visiting ‘The Gloup’ – a huge collapsed red sandstone sea cave with a waterfall pouring over the edge – before heading out along the cliff path the Brough of Deerness where there is a small Norse chapel.

• Explore Mull Head and The Gloup with this walk to the Brough of Deerness
• Stop at: Dingieshowe beach at Deerness – it is one of Orkney’s prettiest beaches
• Visit the Deerness Distillery after your walk at The Gloup!

Visit Kirkwall & Stromness – for art & gin!

Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, is home to around 9000 people and is the main ferry, freight and airport hub for the islands. Kirkwall is a bustling little place, with a great town centre filled with quirky boutique shops (including Sheila Fleet) along with the Orkney Museum , and cafes and delis, and pubs and bars – perfect for an afternoon stroll.  

St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall

At the southern end of Kirkwall high street is the impressive St Magnus Cathedral – Britain’s most northerly cathedral built in 1137 by the Viking, Earl Rognvald, for his uncle Magnus. The story goes that Magnus Erlendsson became Earl of Orkney along with his cousin Hakon in 1105.

Seemingly jealous of Magnus’s popularity, Hakon betrayed him and in 1117 Magnus was murdered by his cousin’s cook. Hakon couldn’t do the murdering himself it seems (the Orkneyinga Saga is full of stuff like this). Magnus was sanctified (made a saint) following a series of miracles (like growing his own grass on his grave) and finally hidden by Earl Rognvald in a pillar in the new cathedral.

The cathedral, whilst impressive from the outside, is gorgeous inside, and contains many Orkney relics along with St Magnus, including the bell from the HMS Royal Oak and the grave of famous Orkney explorer John Rae who found the last section of the Northwest Passage, along with evidence of the ice-bound fate of Sir John Franklin.

• Visit the St Magnus Cathedral Kirkwall – open (summer) Monday – Saturday, from 09:00 – 18:00 and Sunday 13:00 – 18:00.

Orkney Distillery, Home to Kirkjuvagr Gin

Fancy an alcoholic version of a spirit? Then head to Kirkwall harbour where you will find the Orkney Distillery , home of Kirkjuvagr Gin. Made up of a blend of very local Orkney Botanicals including angelica, ramanas rose, burnet rose, borage and made with barley grown on, rather than imported to, Orkney.

• Orkney Gin has a great visitor centre where you can learn how the gin is made (and marvel at how small gin stills actually are) and try the gin in their stylish bar.
• Gin tours start at £8. We toured the distillery and then tried Kirkjuvagr’s four gins, along with our chosen gin & tonic.

Over on West Mainland is Stromness, a quirky traditional, and sleepy port town where buildings hug – and expand out onto – the coast. Take a stroll along the high street winding your way along the waterfront – today it is just wide enough for a car. Look down the alleys – most houses have a slip for a boat reflecting on Stromness’s role as a major trading port for the Hudson Bay company. The town is now the port for ferries arriving from Scrabster. 

The Pier Arts Centre 

Established by renowned British patron of art Margaret Emilia Gardiner OBE, the Pier Arts Centre in Stromness is home to a gorgeous collection of modernist art left by Gardiner in trust to Orkney. There are around 180 works in the gallery, including sculptures by Barbara Hepworth, a long-time friend of Gardiner, whose garden on Rousay, Orkney inspired many of Hepworth’s works.

It is not just the art on display which is worth a visit, for the building holding the collection is award-winning too. Originally forming part of the Hudson Bay Company’s warehousing (much of Stromness was built due to trading links) the gallery was altered in 2007 to create a new building overlooking the harbour.

• Visit the Pier Arts Centre on Stromness High Street. Free entry.
• After your visit to the Pier, visit Stromness museum .

Planning a trip to Orkney

Everything you need to know about getting to Orkney!

Recommended tours to Orkney

• 3-day Orkney tour from Inverness *
• 5-day Orkney tour from Edinburgh *
• 5-day Orkney and the north Highlands from Edinburgh *
• 8-day Highlands of Scotland and Orkney tour *

Flights to Orkney

Flights to Orkney are run by Scotland’s lovely wee airline Loganair *. We flew to Kirkwall Airport in Orkney mainland from Edinburgh. Our flight took around an hour and included lovely friendly service and a cup of tea & a Tunnocks caramel wafer!

Loganair also fly to Kirkwall from Sumburgh on Shetland (35 mins), Inverness to Kirkwall (45 mins) Aberdeen (50 mins) and Glasgow (1.15 mins). You can also fly to Kirkwall from Manchester connecting via Glasgow or Inverness. Book online .

Did you know that the shortest scheduled flight in the world is in Orkney? The flight, run by Loganair from Westray to Papa Westray takes just 1 minute!

Orkney Ferries

There are four ways to catch a ferry to Orkney. The average journey time from Edinburgh to Kirkwall via road and ferry is around 8 hours including the crossing. Or you could visit Orkney as part of your North Coast 500 trip! 

• Gills Bay to St Margaret’s Hope, South Ronaldsay – Pentland Ferries sail every day to Orkney at 9.30am, 13.30 and 16.45 and the crossing takes 1 hour and costs around £140 per car with two people travelling. Book online .
• Scrabster to Stromness – takes 90 mins and normally sails at 8.45 am / 16.45 pm those wanting a day trip to Orkney. The ferry from Scrabster to Stromness costs around £200 per car with two people travelling. Book online .
• John O’Groats to Burwick, South Ronaldsay – doing the NC500 and want to spend a day in Orkney? A passenger-only ferry runs May to September, costing £20 per person, or £68 including a coach day tour. An   express bus   runs from Inverness to Orkney departing at 7.15am for £25 including the ferry crossing. The crossing takes 1 hour Book online .
• Aberdeen to Kirkwall (and on to Shetland) – the NL2 ferry from Aberdeen takes 6 hours, sailing at 5 pm on Tues, Thurs and Saturday arriving at Kirkwall at 11 pm. The ferry returns the same day, arriving in Aberdeen at 7 am. The ferry from Aberdeen to Kirkwall costs around £315 per car with two people travelling. Book online.

Getting around Orkney

• Orkney car hire –  Orkney Car Rental * have a wee desk as soon as you arrive at the airport and efficient in getting you on the road as soon as you land. The roads in Orkney are some of the best in rural Scotland – unlike a lot of the highlands it is rare to see a pothole.
• Orkney Buses – No car? Orkney has an efficient but rural service. Orkney is slightly unusual – you don’t need to walk to a bus stop. Instead, find your bus route and timetable , stand at a safe place for the bus to stop, then hail the driver. Finally, ring the bell to stop. Prices depend on the length of your journey, but the airport to Kirkwall town centre is roughly £1.60.
• Inter-island ferries –  Orkney Ferries run to 13 different Orkney islands including Hoy and Graemsay, Shapinsay, and Stronsay.
• Inter-island flights – Loganair operate the scheduled island-hopping flights within Orkney. You can fly from Kirkwall to Eday, Stronsay, Westray, Papa Westray, Sanday, and North Ronaldsay This includes the world’s shortest flight between Westray and Papa Westray, just one and a half minutes long! ( summer timetable )
• Want to explore by foot? – many of the walks we went on can be found in  40 Orkney walks  which can be picked up in many shops on the Island.

Where to stay in Orkney

• Try the lovely  Instabillie Self Catering . Sleeping up to 5, the cottage is super handy for exploring Skara Brae and West Mainland, but only 35 minutes from Kirkwall, 40 minutes from the Italian Chapel and 15 minutes from Stromness. There is a local shop nearby, which literally seemed to sell everything.
• Other accommodation options in Orkney include staying in the main towns of Kirkwall * or Stromness * or have a look at all the options in Orkney *.

Where to eat in Orkney 

Eating out?

• The  Birsay Bay Tea Rooms  serves up soup, sandwiches and excellent cake in a tearoom with a great view.
• For Scottish specialities such as seafood chowder and steak pie head to the  Ferry Inn  in Stromness.
• Try fresh fish specials such as hot smoked salmon, crab claws and scallops at the Merkister Hotel .
• Grab lunch from the Standing Stones Hotel and great coffee from Cafe Lolz in Kirkwall.

Self-catering? 

• Look out for the  Taste of Orkney  stamp for great local products such as Orkney butter, Orkney Island Cheddar, Orkney Isle Preserves and Stockan’s oatcakes, along with meat from Craigie Butchers and fish from Jollys.
• Make sure you try the beers from the Orkney Brewery and Swannays Brewery and of course, the whisky from Highland Park Distillery and  Scapa Distillery .

Best time to visit Orkney?

Orkney has a maritime climate so its mild(ish – this is still Scotland!) all year round, just watch out for the wind – it can be ferocious. We visited in Spring when the weather was gorgeous and the shops and restaurants were open, but the island was still really quiet – we often had places like Skara Brae to ourselves and we were even treated to our own private tour. Looking for puffins? They normally arrive in Orkney in April. Planning a summer trip? Orkney can be busy – cruise ships dock in Kirkwall every day. 

If you need help to decide when to visit, Destination Orkney has lots of offers online – from bogof brewery tours to accommodation discounts – check out their offers page *

Wild, windswept and remote and with that island magic that you’ll wish could be bottled, a visit to Orkney will always leave you wanting more. Orkney, I promise I’ll be seeing you at the weekend again!

Love, from Scotland x

Looking for more Scottish islands to visit? 

The travel blogger and photographer behind Love from Scotland

Diane Hughes

Saturday 11th of June 2022

My family have asked me (granny) to join them for a part of their holiday in August in Lerwick. I would also like to visit the Orkneys before or after my stay with them. Can anyone tell me please how I would be able to get to or from the Orkneys from Lerwick and how I can contact the relevant company who make the journey. Many thanks Diane

Graham Maxted

Sunday 1st of December 2019

So inspiring thank you - can't wait to visit ! ☺

Saturday 20th of April 2019

I've been wanting to visit Scara Brae for YEARS. This is a great guide- using it in my trip planning to Orkney. Thanks!

Thursday 4th of April 2019

Love Orkney, been quite a few times now as we have friends who live in Stromness. Great write-up which pretty much covers everything!

Love from, Smidge

Friday 5th of April 2019

Thanks Naomi - I'd love to go back. I really liked Stromness - and the Ferry Inn :)

Clazz - An Orcadian Abroad

This is fab! You've pretty much covered all my highlights. :) My favourite places are probably the Brough Of Birsay and the Italian Chapel (although Skara Brae is always amazing!). I love that you've chosen a gin distillery over a whisky one haha. There are so many popping up now!

Ooh this is a lovely compliment from a local! The wind was blowing a hoolie when we visited Birsay so we spent most of our time there in the tea room (which was ace too)

15 Must Visit Sites In Orkney

Wild beaches, dramatic landscapes, fascinating history, incredible produce, wonderful spirit – Orkney has most definitely stolen our hearts! Having lived there for almost 8 years, it was fantastic to return recently with our children and to introduce them to this special archipelago of islands. I thoroughly enjoyed rediscovering many of the must-visit sites in Orkney. If you’d like a full 3 or 4 day Orkney itinerary then be sure to check out this post .

The Italian Chapel

This is one of our most favourite sites to visit. From the front it looks like a fairly normal chapel, however, move round to the side and you’ll discover that the body of the kirk is actually made out of two Nissen huts! Presenting you the Italian Chapel.

This beautiful building was created by Italian prisoners of war during the 2nd World War in Lamb Holm in Orkney, Scotland. The POWs had been brought in to help work on the Churchill Barriers – causeways that linked the south islands to mainland Orkney and that also served to stop submarines from entering the area.

The Italian prisoners of war had requested a place of worship and were granted the opportunity to build this small chapel. It has now become one of Orkney’s most visted sites!

Old Man of Hoy

Probably one of the most iconic landmarks in Orkney – the Old Man of Hoy! It should definitely feature on your Orkney bucket list! This impressive 449 ft (137m) sea stack rises proudly out of the Atlantic ocean just off of Hoy. It was first climbed in 1966 (not for the fainthearted!) and is one of the tallest sea stacks in the UK.

You can reach the island of Hoy by ferry from Stromness to Moaness (passengers only) or with your car from Houton to Lyness (advance booking strongly advised). Depending on where you ‘land’, you can walk across the island to Rackwick and follow the path to reach the Old Man or park up/get a taxi straight to Rackwick for a shorter walk to the famous landmark.

An alternative way to see the Old Man of Hoy is from the sea, if you’re travelling aboard the ferry that goes from Scrabster to Stromness.

Yesnaby Sea Stacks

If you are unable to visit the island of Hoy to see the old man, then this place is a must. On a breezy day it’s a dramatic sight. The furious sea throws itself against the towering sea cliffs below, with such might, that spray is thrown over the top into your face. It’s wild and invigorating all at the same time. There is an impressive sea stack known as the ‘castle’ which is home to wild flowers and sea birds.

This 5000 year old neolithic village was uncovered in 1850 during a violent storm that ripped away the layer of grass that was covering it up. What a discovery for the locals! It is said to be one of the best preserved stone age villages in Europe and is even older than the Pyramids of Giza! And there’s a stunning beach just next to the settlement – not to be missed.

Stones of Stenness

It is believed that the origins of this stone circle go back at least 10,000 years, when it was used for rituals/sacrifices celebrating the dead. In more recent times it was tradition for couples to hold hands though a hole in the ‘Odin Stone’, during an engagement ritual. Unfortunately, this stone was destroyed by an angry land owner in 1814, fed up with people trespassing.

Ring of Brodgar

Continuing with the standing stone theme, very close by is the Ring of Brodgar . Made famous in modern times by Billy Connolly running around these stones naked to celebrate the summer solstice. This stone circle consists of 27 stones and is perfectly situated between the Lochs of Harray and Stenness on a thin strip of land.

Tomb of the Eagles – Update 2021 : this site has closed permanently

Update 2021 : sadly this site has closed permanently… We’re leaving this information here for a so that visitors are aware of the situation.

(Have you ever been to a site where you have to lie on a skateboard/trolley to access the attraction? Well this is certainly a fun one for the kiddos (and the grownups!) This 5000 year old Neolithic tomb was discovered by chance by local farmer, Ronnie Simson. When exploring the site, he found a collection of bones and skulls staring back at him! And don’t miss the beautiful scenic coastal path that leads you from the visitor center to the tomb.)

The Churchill Barriers

If you’re travelling from Orkney’s south islands to Orkney mainland, you’ll drive across some interesting causeways that are known locally as ‘the barriers’. These 4 causeways, the Churchill Barriers , referred to as barrier 1, 2, 3 and 4, were built during World War 2. They link Orkney mainland to the islands in the South (South Ronaldsay, Burray, Lamb Holm and Glimps Holm).

They were originally built as naval defences following the sinking of the HMS Royal Oak by a German U-boat in 1939. Following the war, roads were built on top of the causeways and now serve as road links. The Italian prisoners of war who built the Italian Chapel were part of the large workforce who built these causeways. As you drive along, you’ll also spot some interesting sunken wrecks that were used as block ships.

Maes Howe Chambered Cairn

From a distance, all you see is a mound on the horizon, however, as you get closer and enter the ‘mound’, you’ll discover an amazing 5000 year old burial tomb. Maes Howe is one of the finest examples of a burial chamber in Europe. The design and architecture of this prehistoric cairn was very sophisticated for its time. It featured a special passageway that aligned perfectly for the midwinter sunset to illuminate the tomb’s interior. There is also some more ‘recent’ history visible in the tomb in the form of Viking graffiti! The chamber was broken into in the 1100s by norse crusaders who left their runic graffiti on the walls.

Highland Park Distillery

Orkney is famous for its whiskies and a visit to the Highland Park Distillery in particular is a must. This 18th century distillery located in Kirkwall was founded by Magnus Eunson who was a direct descendant of the Vikings! You can choose various tours which will all include a wee dram or two at the end of the visit. And if you’re the designated driver, fear not, as you’ll receive your very own ‘driver kit’ of whiskies that you can take away with you and sample at home.

Orkney Brewery

Orkney is famous for its whiskies, gin and let’s not forget its craft beers! So why not include a stop at the Orkney Brewery on your itinerary? Craft beers have become all the rage in recent years and the Orkney Brewery was one of the first on the scene with its signature Dark Island beer. The brewery is located in a former Victorian school in Quoyloo just one mile from Skara Brae. It’s also the school that the owner’s father attended as a child and the Tasting Hall café used to be a classroom!

You can buy your tickets onsite and join a tour. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and talked us through the brewing process. At the end of the tour, you get the chance to sample 3 small beers of your choice. If you’re visiting with kids, rest assured they’ll be neither bored nor will they feel left out. There’s a great quiz for them, a Victorian school uniform dressing up corner, a large box of toys and they even get to take part in their own sampling (not alcoholic of course!). There’s great food onsite and kids won’t be able to resist the dragon sausages, viking burgers or peedies plates on the menu. So as you can see, this is a really fun place to visit – even with children in tow!

St Magnus Cathedral

Britain’s most northerly Cathedral. It’s impossible to miss the centre piece of Kirkwall; its huge spire almost touches the clouds. Constructed from red sandstone in the 12th century, it was owned by Norway and the first bishop was the Norseman William the Old. Interestingly it’s not owned by the church, but by the town of Kirkwall and even has a dungeon. The interior is as impressive as the exterior with huge stone circular stone pillars reaching into the heavens and ornate stained-glass windows.

Brough of Birsay

Check the tides before you vsit the Brough of Birsay  so that you are able to reach this small tidal island! Once there, you’ll find the remains of Pictish and Norse settlements. It’s also a great place for a circular walk round the island or to the (working) lighthouse. If you have kids in tow, there are also some great rockpools on the beach area for spotting local sealife.

The Gloup is a partially collapsed sea cave that provides a fantastic view down the chasm to the sea. The word ‘gloup’ comes from ‘gluppa’ which is Old Norse for ‘chasm’. It’s a short stroll from the car park to reach the Gloup and if you’re feeling energetic, there is a lovely circular walk around Mull Head Nature Reserve (3.5 miles or 5.6km) that takes in the famous Gloup.

Waulkmill Bay

There are so many beautiful beaches to visit but this has got to be one of Orkney’s best! If you are lucky enough to arrive at this beach at low tide, then you are in for a big treat. There is an enormous expanse of pale sand and the water is clear and turquoise, reminiscent of the Caribbean.

So there you have it – so many things to do in Orkney! We hope this snapshot of some of our top picks will inspire you to visit Orkney in the near future!

RELATED: Ultimate 3 and 4 day Orkney Itinerary

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Orkney travel guide: 32+ things to do in orkney.

With its unique landscapes, culture and history, Orkney is a dream destination in the Scottish Isles. Here are some of my favourite things to do in Orkney to experience this northern archipelago to the fullest. You’ll love this travel guide for Orkney, whether it’s your first visit and you’re interested in the highlights, or you’re a return visit on the lookout for hidden gems.

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

Orkney – you can also say Orkney Isles or Orkney Islands (but never “the Orkneys”!) – lies just 10 miles off the north coast of Scotland, but with its distinct history, culture and landscapes it feels like you’ve travelled much further to a new destination.

There are about 70 islands in Orkney, although many are inhabited. 22,000 people live on just 20 islands – and they are well outnumbered by sheep and seabirds.

The islands offer stunning landscapes ranging from beaches to seacliffs. Nature thrives here, including rare flowers like the Scottish primrose and nesting seabirds like puffins. But what Orkney is probably best known for is its people, history and culture.

Before Orkney became part of the Kingdom of Scotland, it was colonised by Norwegians during the Viking period. As such, there was never really a Gaelic culture on the islands and the Norse influence shows until today in Orkney placenames, local dialects and traditions.

Looking further back, Orkney has been settled for 8,000 years and many traces remain from these pre-historic, Neolithic and Iron Age Orcadians. The most famous sites are the village Skara Brae, the Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar and the chambered tomb of Maeshowe, which form the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site .

But Orkney won’t just charm you with its historic sites. Expect to find bustling seaside towns and meet lots of welcoming locals, whether it’s on a coastal walk or at a trad music session down the pub. Orkney has a lot to offer. This post covers:

• Over 32 things to do in Orkney , especially on Orkney Mainland and the southern isles
• Day trip ideas to other Orkney islands, including Hoy
• A practical travel guide for Orkney: how much time to spend there, how to get to the islands, how to get around, where to stay & recommended places to eat, and
• Useful travel tips for Orkney sprinkled throughout

I have visited Orkney twice, staying for a week each time. This detailed guide is jam-packed with my experiences, tips and takeaways from those trips.

Without further ado, let’s dive into my Orkney travel guide.

A Map of Orkney Highlights

Orkney Practical Travel Guide

How much time to spend in orkney.

I recommend spending at least 2-3 nights in Orkney, even if you’re planning to visit Orkney as a detour from the North Coast 500 . Any shorter and you won’t have enough time to even see the highlights. Also, the ferry is pretty expensive for such a short trip.

There is so much to do in Orkney, you could easily fill a week or two with historic sites, fun activities and interesting events.

On my first trip to Orkney, we spent a week there, and for our second trip, we even added an additional night to have more time on the islands. Next time, I hope to split our time between the main island and one or two of the smaller islands.

Can you do a day trip to Orkney?

Theoretically, you can – the ferry from Scrabster to Stromness only takes 1 hour and 15 minutes, so you’d have plenty of time to tour some of Orkney’s highlights on a day trip before taking the ferry back in the evening (from Stromness or St Margaret’s Hope – see below for travel info). However, you’d have to be very picky and make some tough decisions about which of the many interesting sites to visit.

Personally, I find the price of the ferry too high for a day trip. The crossing can easily cost £200 for two adults and one car (return ticket).

How to get to Orkney

If you’re short on time, you can fly to Orkney. Loganair operates flights to Kirkwall from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness, Aberdeen, Dundee, Shetland and Birmingham.

If you’re visiting Orkney as part of a wider Scotland trip, you are more likely to take the ferry.

Join a guided tour to Orkney! Rabbie’s runs a 5-day tour to Orkney and the north coast from Edinburgh and a 3-day Orkney tour from Inverness. Both include 2 nights in Kirkwall.

There are three ferries from the Scottish mainland to Orkney Mainland – that’s what the main island is called. Whenever I refer to this island I’ll capitalise “Mainland” in this blog post.

Northlink Ferries operates a car ferry from Scrabster near Thurso to Stromness on Mainland. The crossing takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. During the summer there are 3 crossings per day, in off-season this is reduced to 2 sailings. Northlink Ferries also runs overnight connections from Kirkwall to Aberdeen and from Kirkwall to Lerwick on Shetland.

Scrabster is about 2.5 miles from Thurso train station, with trains arriving from Inverness up to four times a day. Stagecoach buses 80 and X99 run to the ferry pier in Scrabster three to four times a day – but you may want to pre-book a taxi for more flexibility.

Pentland Ferry operates a car ferry from Gills Bay in Caithness to St Margaret’s Hope in South Ronaldsay, one of the southern Orkney Islands. South Ronaldsay is connected to Orkney Mainland by a series of causeways, making this an easy alternative port of arrival. There are three crossings per day and they tend to be a little cheaper than Northlink Ferries.

Stagecoach bus 80 also runs from Thurso to Gill’s Bay a few times a day.

There is also a passenger ferry to Orkney which is the most popular option for organised day trips by bus. The John o’Groats Ferry sails from John o’Groats to Burwick on the southern edge of South Ronaldsay. There, you board a bus and explore the highlights of Orkney before returning in the evening. Please note that this ferry and the associated day tours are not operating in 2024!

If you plan to travel to any of the other Orkney Isles, you can do so aboard an Orkey Ferries crossing (see more info below) or a Loganair flight.

How to get around Orkney

As anywhere in Scotland, travelling by car gives you the greatest flexibility when you’re exploring Orkney. Driving allows you to explore off the beaten path and reach rural destinations away from the main sites.

Travelling by bike is a great alternative which gives you just as much flexibility. Just remember that Orkney has a lot of wind, so you’ll need strong legs. Bicycles travel for free with Northlink Ferries and Pentland Ferries. On Orkney, bike hire is available in Stromness and Kirkwall, and many of the smaller islands too.

By Public Transport

If you travel to Orkney without a car, you can explore much of the island’s main attractions and towns by bus. All bus routes on Orkney are operated by Stagecoach.

• The T11 hop-on, hop-off service runs from the end of April until late September. It is a special bus for visitors and stops in Kirkwall, St Margaret’s Hope, Stromness, the Ring of Brodgar and the Stones of Stenness.
• The X1 runs from St Margaret’s Hope to Kirkwall and on to Stromness. It stops at the Italian Chapel, the Churchill Barriers, Highland Park Distillery, Kirkwall, Maeshowe and near the Stones of Stenness (10 minutes walk along a small road).

Other routes run from Kirkwall to Skara Brae (past the Ring of Brodgar), from Kirkwall to Evie Sands and the Tingwall ferry for Rousay, to Houton for the car ferry to Hoy, to Deerness in East Mainland, and from Stromness to Birsay.

You can get single tickets or Day Rider passes that are valid on all regular buses. Note that the T11 requires its own ticket.

You might also like: My full guide to travelling Scotland by Public Transport

By Ferry or Plane

If you want to visit other Orkney Isles besides Mainland Orkney, you can reach them by ferry or plane.

Orkney Ferries operates crossings to all the inhabited islands that aren’t connected by causeways, including Hoy, Rousay, Shapinsay, Stronsay, Sanday, Westray, Papa Westray and North Ronaldsay.

Tickets should generally be booked in advance, especially if you plan to travel with a vehicle. As a foot passenger, you can be more flexible. Bikes travel for free.

Inter-island flights from Kirkwall (Mainland) to Eday, Stronsay, Westray, Sanday and North Ronaldsay are operated by Loganair .

Where to stay in Orkney

If you travel by public transport, I recommend staying in one of Orkney’s two main towns – Kirkwall or Stromness. This gives you easier access to public transport (especially Kirkwall), inter-island ferries for day trips, shops, pubs and restaurants.

If you have a car, you have more flexibility and can book accommodation in rural Orkney.

On our first and second trips, we booked a self-catering apartment at Summerdale near Orphir, approx. 7 miles from Kirkwall. The accommodation contains the upper floor of the cottage – the hosts live right underneath and they are the sweetest couple. The apartment sleeps up to 4 adults in two bedrooms and there is a spacious lounge, a separate dining area and a fully-equipped kitchen.

From the windows facing out front, you can see the golden sands of Waulkmill Bay. The house is surrounded by fields with sheep in a tranquil setting. I can’t recommend it enough for your home base in Orkney.

Other options I’d consider, in no particular order:

• Kirkwall Youth Hostel run by Hostelling Scotland: I’ve enjoyed all their hostels and I’m sure this one is no different
• Murray Arms Hotel in St Margaret’s Hope: The food there is delicious and I’m sure the rooms are lovely too
• The Ferry Inn in Stromness, which is also a popular live music venue for trad players
• Lindisfarne B&B in Stromness: I’ve often recommended this to my itinerary clients
• Orkney Lux Lodges in Stromness: These come with a private hot tub!

My favourite restaurants in Orkney

We had a lot of fantastic food in Orkney. To be honest, finding vegan options was a little tricky, so from time to time I had to make do with veggie options containing dairy, or freshly landed seafood from local fishing boats. If you’re now willing (or able) to make such exceptions, it helps to book accommodation where you can prepare your own meals.

Here are some of my favourite eateries from our trips:

• The Polly Kettle in Burray serves finger-licking Orcadian-Egyptian fare like homemade falafel, fresh butter bean stew with tahini dip, irresistible desserts and cakes. This was one of my favourite places to eat on our trip and a great vegan-friendly find.
• The Murray Arms Hotel in St Margaret’s Hope is a seafood restaurant through and through – although they also have one meat option on the menu. They get their fish and shellfish from local fishing boats and make many of the condiments in-house, including their butter. We had the seafood platter and the furthest ingredient was monkfish caught near John o’Groats, a mere 15 miles away. What a great way to minimise your food miles!
• The Ferry Inn in Stromness is a gastro pub with rooms and lots of atmosphere. Since it’s one of the main venues at the Orkney Folk Festival we didn’t have a chance to eat in the formal restaurant, but we enjoyed the storm they cooked up at their food truck during the festival. Think burgers and lobster mac & cheese.
• Another nice option in Stromness is Adam’s Place which serves seafood, meat and vegetarian options. I had a chowder here and it was delicious.
• Most days we picked up cakes from Argos Bakery in Kirkwall or Stromness.
• Harbour Fry in Kirkwall is a traditional fish & chip shop. This is where Thomas tried the famous Orkney Pattie – a local delicacy: mince, potaties and onion mixed together, battered and deep-fried.
• We enjoyed another seafood platter at Kirkwall Hotel – it wasn’t as amazing as the one in St Margaret’s Hope, but still really good.
• St Ola’s Hotel in Kirkwall is a good option for no-frills pub food.
• We were quite keen on trying Helgi’s in Kirkwall, but couldn’t get a table.
• We also tried our luck at Birsay Tearoom but it was closed on the day we visited the area – next time!

No matter where you plan to eat, I highly recommend booking a table for dinner – or at least calling ahead to avoid disappointment.

32+ Things to do in Orkney

In this section I focus on things to do on the Mainland of Orkney – that’s the main island where Kirkwall and Stromness are located. Scroll down for things to do on the southern islands, and day trip ideas to other islands. It would be impossible to write one blog post about things to do on all the Orkney islands – you’d be reading for weeks.

Now, that’s out the way – let’s go.

Explore Kirkwall

Kirkwall is the capital of Orkney and with about 10,000 people it’s largest town. The town was founded by the Vikings and its name comes from the Norse word for “Church Bay”.

Start by visiting the Orkney Museum at Tankerness House to learn more about these islands. During the summer, the gardens are a treat for the senses.

Cross the street to beautiful St Magnus Cathedra l It. was founded in 1137 and took around 300 years to complete. It’s still used as a church, but there are also regular events, concerts and exhibitions.

Explore the bustling streets of the town centre – which are even more bustling when a large cruise ship is anchored nearby. Judith Glue is a great shop to pick up locally-made knitwear, crafts and souvenirs. There are many other little shops and cafes along Albert Street.

Top Tip: Check the cruise schedule to see when the biggest cruise ships dock in Kirkwall or Stromness (3,000+ passengers). Avoid the most popular sites on Mainland Orkney on those days – they will be busy! Day-tripping to another Orkney island on cruise shop days is a great way to escape the crowds.

Do a whisky tour

There are two whisky distilleries in Orkney open for tours. Both of them are located in or near Kirkwall.

• Highland Park Distillery – The distillery is in Kirkwall. They also have a whisky shop in town if you want to pick up a bottle of whisky or some whisky-themed gifts.
• Scapa Distillery – unlike Highland Park, this is an unpeated whisky. The distillery is just outside Kirkwall. Tours include a tasting in their beautiful tasting room with sea views and a roof shaped like. a boat.

Do a gin tour

Whisky isn’t your thing? Try Scottish gin made in Orkney! There are a handful of gin distilleries in Orkney that are open for tours and tastings:

• Deerness Distillery on East Mainland: They also make whisky, but it’s not ready yet!
• The Orkney Distillery produce Kirkjuvagr Gin but they are also working on establishing a whisky distillery in the future; visit their distillery bar by the harbour for a gin flight tasting
• There is also the Orkney Gin Company, but they don’t have a visitor centre.

Explore Stromness

Stromness is Kirkwall’s quaint little sister. The town is much smaller (about 2,500 inhabitants) and the centre is clustered around the picturesque main street that runs parallel to the waterfront.

The Piers Arts Centre is a nice place to visit, especially if you’re interested in art from Orkney.

A great local hike is the short but steep ascent of Brinkie’s Brae , a wee hill above Stromness. It offers fantastic views of the town, the coastline and nearby islands like Hoy and Graemsay.

Visit Stromness Museum

Stromness Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Stromness and the natural history of the islands.

Don’t miss the exhibition about John Rae, an Orkney-born explorer who studied with First Nations, Inuit and Métis in the Canadian Arctic to learn their survival skills.

Another highlight is “Buddo”, a little human figurine that was found at Skara Brae. It was carved from whalebone and dates to circa 2,900 – 2,400 BC.

I particularly enjoyed the large collection of seashells and minerals, which are displayed in original Victorian cabinets.

I highly recommend booking a Curator’s Tour to bring the many exhibits in this museum to life. And follow them on social media for updates on other events like workshops, shoreline walks and snorkel safaris from the museum.

Skara Brae Neolithic Settlement

The stone settlement Skara Brae on the west coast of Mainland Orkney is Europe’s best preserved Neolithic village. It is older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza. People lived here from 3,180 BC to about 2,500 BC.

It then lay silent beneath layers of soil for thousands of years until a storm started uncovering it in 1850. It was excavated by a local man, later plundered and finally properly excavated and recorded in 1927.

The main site of the village contains around 10 houses which are connected by once-covered walkways. Each house has a primitive sewer system with flushing toilets. Due to its fragile nature, visitors must remain on the paths and walkways above the structures, but there is also a replica to get a sense of what these buildings once looked like from the inside.

Ring of Brodgar

The Ring of Brodgar is one of the most spectacular stone circles in the UK. It contains 36 standing stones, although there were nearly twice as many when it was built 5,000 years ago. The site also includes burial mounds and a large ditch around the stone circle.

It is believed that the site was used for ceremonial purposes and to observe the moon – but there is little evidence that tells us for sure why this stone circle was erected.

It’s free to visit the Ring of Brodgar and from mid-May to mid-September, local rangers lead free guided walks every day at 1 pm. Meet them at the car park.

Stones of Stenness

The Stones of Stenness were once a great stone circle, built approx. 5,400 years ago. Only four of the 12 stones remain today – but they are good ones! The tallest stone is nearly 6 metres (19 ft) tall.

It’s free to visit the Stones of Stenness and from mid-May to mid-September, local rangers lead free guided walks every day at 10 am. Meet them at the gate to the stones.

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn is an incredibly well-preserved Neolithic chambered tomb which was built 5,000 years ago. It’s one of those places where it’s hard to imagine how people managed to lift such huge stones into place.

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn can only be accessed with a guided tour and capacity is very limited – you must book this attraction well in advance to avoid disappointment.

There are many other chambered cairns in Orkney – for example, the Unstan Chambered Cairn – but none of them are as spectacular.

Top Tip for Maeshowe Chambered Cairn: Roughly from the end of November through to the middle of January (weather dependent) the setting sun aligns with the central chamber of the cairn. Visitors wishing to see the setting sun should book for the 2 pm tour.

A walk to the Brough of Birsay

The tidal island Brough of Birsay is linked to Mainland Orkney by a causeway. Twice a day, you can walk across to explore the island and its many historic sites.

Highlights on the Brough of Birsay include the replica of a Pictish stone (the original was found here), remains of a Norse settlement and a medieval monastery. Walk to the lighthouse at the other end of the island to see seabirds and breathtaking cliffs.

Timing is of the essence to visit the Brough of Birsay. Check the tide tables at Skara Brae or call them on 01856 841 815. The tide times can also be found on the  Met Office website . You get a few hours on either side of low tide to walk there and back. Allow 2-3 hours to visit the island.

Marwick Head

The headland of Marwick Head is a favourite among bird watchers. You might have already spotted it from the Brough of Birsay – the Kitchener Memorial (commemorating WWI Minister for War, Lord Kitchener) is hard to overlook.

During the summer, seabirds nest in the majestic cliffs of Marwick Head. You can spot fulmars, guillemots, razorbills, cormorants and kittiwakes – just take care of the edge! Allow about 2 hours for this walk.

Cliffs of Yesnaby

Looking for a coastal walk on the West Mainland? Look no further than the cliffs of Yesnaby! Spot sea birds, walk through flower meadows (including the rare Scottish primrose) and marvel at the stunning sea views.

One of the highlights here is the sea stac Yesnaby Castle – castle often refers to natural sea stacs in Orkney – with its natural stone arch. On your way from the car park, you’ll pass the headland Brough of Bigging. Allow about 2 hours for this walk.

Visit Barony Mill

Barony Mill is Orkney’s only water mill, but what’s even more special is the kind of grain that is milled here. Bere is an ancient type of barley which was found in Neolithic tombs. It is only grown in Orkney and while it isn’t as productive as modern types of grain, it is incredibly well-adapted to the rough climate here.

You can join a tour at the mill to learn more about this old tradition, and stock up on flour, oats and biscuits made from beremeal that was milled here.

Visit the Woolshed

Here’s another uniquely Orcadian product: wool from the seaweed-eating sheep on North Ronaldsay! At the Woolshed near Evie, you can learn about this rare variety of Orkney sheep and shop hand-knitted items like jumpers, cardigans and more. You can also pick up balls or skeins of yarn to take home for your own knitting projects.

Top Tip for Knitters: Read Jane Cooper’s The Lost Flock about her efforts to raise the profile of the rare sheep breed Orkney Borerary.

Orkney Folklore & Storytelling Centre

If you’re looking for something different to do, visit the Orkney Folklore & Storytelling Centre . They offer events for all ages including family-friendly afternoon sessions and storytelling evenings by a peatfire.

Sands of Evie & Brouch of Gurness

Located on the northeast of Orkney’s Mainland and therefore sheltered from the sheer force of the Atlantic, the Sands of Evie are a beautiful, sandy beach with shallow, turquoise waters.

The water here can still be wild, but on a calm day, this is a popular spot for swimmers. There are often seals in the bay and lots of birds.

On the far eastern side of the bay, find the Broch of Gurness , the remains of an Iron Age settlement. It features what’s left of a large broch tower and several stone buildings scattered around it.

Waulkmill Bay

Waulkmill Bay is a brilliant sandy beach, especially at low tide when a huge expanse of sand is revealed.

At the back of the beach, there is a salt marsh with trails and the nearby Hobbister Nature Reserve is a great spot to see moorland birds like short-eared owls and hen harriers. Even from the road, you can hear the characteristic songs of curlews.

Even though we stayed so close to this beach, I have yet to visit. It’s on my list of things to do in Orkney on my next trip.

Dingieshowe & Newark Beach, East Mainland

The East Mainland lies southeast of Kirkwall and is a little more off the beaten path than the West Mainland. The beaches at Dingishowe and Newark are just some of the highlights of this area.

Both bays offer sandy beaches, beautiful views, coastal walks, dunes and wildlife.

The Gloup & Mull Head, East Mainland

The Mull Head Nature Reserve offers large stretches of coastal grassland, sea cliffs and heath moorland. There is a network of trails and you can spend a few hours exploring the area.

If you only have a short amount of time, visit the Gloup – a collapsed sea cave near the car park. It’s a dramatic site to see the ocean roar into the cave some 80 ft below.

Brough of Deerness, East Mainland

Continue on your coastal walk from the Gloup until you reach the Brough of Deerness, a rocky outcrop detached from the mainland. There are steps leading down to the base of the outcrop and more steps back up to the Brough. You’ll need a head for heights!

Follow the Creative Orkney Trail

Orcadians are a creative people! The Creative Orkney Trail lists artists, designers and makers all over the islands who open their workshops and studios to visitors. These include jewellery, homewares, clothing & textiles and art & photography.

Orkney Folk Festival

Established in 1982, the Orkney Folk Festival has long celebrated the best of traditional music from Orkney, Scotland and further afield.

The festival takes place over four days at the end of May in Stromness, although there are also events at venues in Kirkwall, other towns on the Mainland and a few other islands. You can buy tickets for individual events, each with a line-up of 4-5 bands, and/or attend free pub sessions across venues in Stromness.

My first trip to Orkney was for the 40th Orkney Folk Festival, and we’re returning for another visit this year. Here are my top tips for the Orkney Folk Festival and how to make the most of it!

The next Orkney Folk Festival takes place from 23-26 May 2024.

Orkney Nature Festival

The Orkney Nature Festival happens just before the folk festival in the middle of May. It features a diverse programme including boat trips to see the cliffs, nature photography classes with local experts, guided walks and much more.

The next Orkney Nature Festival takes from from 13-19 May 2024.

Things to do in Orkney’s South Isles

The South Isles of Lambholm, Glimps Holm, Burray and South Ronaldsay are connected to Orkney’s Mainland by causeways, making them an easy place to visit without having to worry about ferry schedules. You can just drive there. The bus goes as far as St Margaret’s Hope.

Visit the Italian Chapel

The Italian Chapel was built by Italian Prisoners of War held in Orkney from 1942 to 1945. They were brought to the islands to construct the Churchill Barriers (see below).

The chapel is small and unassuming from the outside. It was constructed from two simple Nissen huts upon the request of camp priest, Fr Giacobazzi. It’s on the inside where this chapel shines. Domenico Chiocchetti, an artist among the prisoners, along with other tradesmen transformed the simple interior into a stunning place of worship.

I have to admit I was quite surprised by how beautiful the interior of the chapel is! It’s well worth a visit.

Drive across the Churchill Barriers

The causeways between the southern Orkney Isles are known as the Churchill Barriers. They were constructed during WWII to block German U-boats and protect the British naval anchorage at Scapa Flow.

Additionally, block ships were sunk in these shallow bays and you can still see the wrecks sticking out of the sea, especially at low tide. Beaches have formed along the barriers too, making for a fascinating road trip to see them all.

Snorkelling at the Churchill Barriers or diving at Scapa Flow

There are countless shipwrecks in the waters of Scapa Flow and surrounding the Churchill Barriers. There are sunken British ships, scuttled German ships (both from WWI) and some blockade ships sunken on purpose during WWII.

Since these ships sunk, they’ve transformed into artificial reefs offering shelter and habitat to countless marine species. Exploring these underwater worlds is an incredible bucket list item.

Local company Kraken Diving offers diving excursions to see the wrecks and more gentle snorkelling sessions at the Churchill Barriers.

Of course, you can also go snorkelling without a guide – just make sure you take the necessary precautions to stay safe. I snorkelled at Barriers 2 & 3 and loved exploring the wreck of the SS Reginald Blockship. You can find my top snorkelling tips here .

Forest Bathing at Olav’s Wood

Orkney isn’t known for its trees – the near-constant wind makes it hard for large plants to grow high and much of the original woodlands that existed here were destroyed a long time ago. There is however one place to go forest bathing in Orkney.

Olav’s Wood is a tranquil mixed woodland in a gorge on the east coast of South Ronaldsay. Here the trees can grow relatively sheltered from the storms. It’s a tranquil spot with a bubbling burn running through the middle. There are several trails through the woodland and its surrounding grass- and wetlands.

A coastal walk in Burwick

I love coastal wildflowers like sea pinks (also called sea thrift) and the southern tip of South Ronaldsay is the perfect place to see them. During the summer, the coastline around Burwick is carpeted in a sea of pink. Add to that the magnificent views across to the mainland of Scotland and the towering seacliffs with nesting cormorants, and you’ve got yourself a winning combination.

Burwick is a wonderful location for a coastal walk in Orkney’s south isles – our walk here is among my favourite things to do in Orkney.

Seafood in St Margaret’s Hope

Finish your day with a delicious meal at the Murray Arms Hotel in St Margaret’s Hope. They specialise in locally sourced seafood and make much of the condiments in-house, including their butter.

Since this is a small restaurant, book ahead to make sure get a table.

Other Orkney Islands

There are many other islands to visit in Orkney and they all warrant a few nights to explore in depth. Some are also easy to reach for day trips – here’s a selection of Orkney day trip ideas. Hopefully, I’ll be able to add more after visiting them in the future.

Day trip to Hoy

Hoy is Orkney’s second largest island (after Mainland) and lies just south of Stromness. Most people travel to Hoy to visit the beautiful beach at Rackwick Bay, take on the 3-hour hike to the sea stac Old Man of Hoy, and visit the Scapa Flow Museum in Lyness.

In southern Hoy, you could go snorkelling on the causeway towards Longhope. There is a seagrass meadow full of life, and rocks teeming with anemones and sea slugs.

Spending a few days on this island is on my list of things to do in Orkney.

Getting to Hoy

There are two ferries to Hoy. A passenger ferry runs from Stromness to Moaness in north Hoy. A car ferry runs from Houton near Orphir to Lyness in south Hoy. Note that there is no bus connection between Moaness and Rackwick – if you want to hike to the Old Man of Hoy, you have to travel by car or pre-book taxi transfers with a local company.

Day trip to Westray

Westray is one of Orkney’s North Isles. We did a day trip here on our first trip to Orkney and brought our bikes – it was challenging, but it was one of my favourite things to do in Orkney.

Most of the highlights are in the north of the island – only 7 miles from the ferry port. But with strong headwinds, the journey was quite the challenge. We didn’t manage to see everything on our wish list.

Highlights on Westray include the puffin colony at Castle o’Burrian (another one of these sea stacs called castle ), Noltland Castle in Pierowall, the beach at Links of Noltland, and the lighthouse and seacliffs at Loup Head Lighthouse. Local company Westraak offer guided tours. If you stay overnight, their evening tours sound delightful.

Getting to Westray

Orkney Ferries runs regular ferries from Kirkwall to Rapness in south Westray. Note that there are no buses on Westray – you need your own transport (car or bike) or book a guided tour to reach the highlights in the north of the island.

Take the shortest scheduled flight in the world

The Scottish airline Loganair operates the shortest scheduled passenger flight in the world. The flight from Westray to Papa Westray lasts only 90 seconds, with about one minute spent in the air. The flight primarily serves the local community (students, researchers, medical visits), but as a tourist, it’s a fun activity to add to your bucket list.

It makes sense to spend a few days on Westray and Papa Westray to make time for the flight in addition to other sites and activities on these islands.

Day trip to Rousay

Rousay is an island for history buffs. There are more than 150 ancient sites, including several brochs and chambered cairns. I first came across the island because some of my itinerary clients were raving about their guided day tour with Patrick from Rousay Tours .

Highlights include the Iron Age Midhowe Broch, the 5,000-year-old Midhowe Chambered Cairn which is covered by a custom-built hangar for protection, the excavations at Swandro and the chambered cairn Taversoe Tuick.

Getting to Rousay

The ferry from Tingwall on Mainland Orkney to Rousay runs several times a day, sometimes with routes stopping in Egilsay and/or Wyre along the way. You can bring your car on this ferry or hire bikes from Trumland Farm near the ferry port on Rousay. Here’s a suggested bike route around the island.

Phew, you’ve made it to the end of my detailed Orkney travel guide. Packed with things to do in Orkney, day trip ideas and practical travel info, you know have what it takes to plan a wonderful trip to these northern Scottish Isles.

I’m sure I will have many places to add after my second trip to Orkney. Stay tuned!

Add your favourite things to do in Orkney in the comments!

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2 thoughts on “ Orkney Travel Guide: 32+ Things to do in Orkney ”

This is super, kathi! I’m so chuffed to be finally getting to Orkney next year, so the timing on your post is perfect for me to. make some plans for 2 weeks in the Isles. This is a GREAT guide, thank you!

Amazing, I’m so glad it will be a useful guide for your trip!!

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Orkney Travel | Private Guided Tours Orkney | Group Guided Tours Orkney | Orkney Highlights Tours

Orkney Travel

Guided tours through the beautiful Orkney Islands.

Guided Tours of Orkney

Welcome to Orkney Travel

Orkney Travel provides private guided tours and group tours of the Orkney Islands. We aim to provide top quality tours and make your tour around Orkney a memorable one. We are able to customise tours and also provide multi day tours. As well as providing tours in our own vehicles, we can also provide "step-on" guiding in your own vehicle, therefore if you have your own group and your own coach, we are able to provide a guide for you. About us

Our Orkney Tours

Orkney Day Trip

Meets the Stromness Ferry. From £99 per person.

West Mainland Group Tour

Departs Kirkwall Travel Centre. £89 per person

Our Reviews

Great 1//2 day tour w Rachel . Super friendly easy and very accommodating to everyone’s needs in the small group (8).. Nice touring with a native local and she is super nice and the tour covered so much we never could have covered on our own . Also Garry from…

playa102 , Orkney Day Trip

Great journey, the whole tour felt like a taylor made experience due to the small group and the very personal and friendly tourguide (Ann). You definitely need to see the breathtaking beauty of this island and especially the sightseeing sites. Simply magical.

ivo , Orkney Day Trip

Our tour guide gave us so much information on each stop, and along the way. It’s going to take me a few days to process everything I learned today. The history here is incredible 5000 years worth! And, he knew all of it. It was a phenomenal day. The timing…

Lisa H , West Mainland Tour

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Orkney Tours

We offer half day, full day and multi day tours.

Prices are dependent on the length of tour and number of guests.

Please contact us for more information.

Payment options in advance are by bank transfer, PayPal account or by card to PayPal. We will accept cash on the day.

We can now accommodate up to 16 passengers in our Ford Tourneo Custom vehicles. Both have luxurious and spacious interiors with air conditioning

Tour Examples

The Orkney Experience – Skara Brae, Maeshowe, Ring of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness, St Magnus Cathedral, Scapa Flow, Italian Chapel.  This tour works well if you are staying in Orkney and would like a full day tour including the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, Wartime and Norse History.

Day Trip Tour  - Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness, St Magnus Cathedral, Churchill Barriers, Italian Chapel. If you can only fit in a day trip to Orkney by ferry this tour covers our most popular sites .

Orkney in a Nutshell – Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness, Yesnaby Cliffs, St Magnus Cathedral, Churchill Barriers, Italian Chapel. This is one of our most popular day tours especially with cruise ship travellers

Ancient Orkney – Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness, Maeshowe, Brough of Birsay, Broch of Gurness.  A great day out visiting our Ancient sites as a day tour but also works really well as part of a two day trip along with our Historic Orkney tour.

Historic Orkney – Yesnaby Cliffs, Stromness, Earls Bu, Orkneyinga Saga Centre, Scapa Flow, St Magnus Cathedral, Churchill Barriers, Italian Chapel. A great day out visiting some of our Historic sites as a day tour but also works really well as part of a two day trip along with our Ancient Orkney tour.

Bespoke Tours – If you have a wish list or specific interests please contact us and we will work with you to create a tailor made tour just for you. e.g. family history, crafts,  photography                                                                                              

If you are not sure what Orkney has to offer feel free to browse our multi day tours for some inspiration:

See Orkney 10 Day Tours

Carrie with 4000 year old remains that she uncovered on the isle of Sanday.

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Weather Forecast: Cloudy and cool with scattered showers

Information from The Met Office

Today 29th June:

Cloudy and cool with the occasional bright spell. A few early showers build and become more frequent for a time around midday before decreasing again from mid-afternoon. Maximum temperature 12 °C.

Cloudy with the occasional shower, mainly over Orkney as Shetland stays mainly dry. Cloud will then thicken with increasing rain spreading southeast from midnight. Minimum temperature 8 °C.

Sunday 30th June:

Cloudy and cool with early rain soon clearing to leave the day dry with increasing bright spells. Maximum temperature 12 °C.

Outlook for Monday to Wednesday:

A band of cloud and rain will pass eastward across the Northern Isles Monday and again Wednesday with Tuesday staying dry with sunny spells.

Updated: 05:00 (UTC+1) on Sat 29 Jun 2024

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Lerwick, Shetland

Orkney & Shetland Island Hopping - Itinerary

So, what awaits you in Orkney and Shetland? For starters, each has a distinctive culture, natural wonders and a number of fascinating geological sites. Lying off Scotland's north coast, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, these two archipelagos are rather special places indeed.

Take a 12-day trip through this charming scattering of islands where you'll discover some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the world, remarkable wildlife, ancient archaeological sites, pristine beaches and much more.

You can fly directly to Orkney and Shetland with  Loganair .

• Distance 398 Miles 637 km
• Transport Car
• Main theme Islands

Day 1 Orkney - Kirkwall & Stromness

It's the first day of your adventure and it's going to be a good one! Get your bearings on Orkney's Mainland, the largest of the islands in Orkney, and explore town, coastline and the famous Skara Brae.

Kirkwall Kirkwall

Four brightly coloured fishing boats in the harbour at Kirkwall, decked with buoys and nets, with the stone buildings of the town lining the water

© Iain Sarjeant, all rights reserved.

Immerse yourself in the Orcadian capital of Kirkwall and learn about the island's fascinating history on a visit to its many historic sites including St Magnus Cathedral, a magnificent red sandstone building that dominates the skyline for miles around.

Stromness Stromness

Looking across the bay to Stromness harbour. The small houses sit right on the edge of the sea, each with a steep private jetty down to the water

© Daniel J Allen, all rights reserved.

The captivating old town of Stromness is located on the shore of Hamnavoe, an inlet of Scapa Flow, and is the main ferry port on Orkney. Stroll around the pretty town and pop into Stromness Museum to learn about Orkney's natural and maritime history. Feeling peckish? Then grab a bite to eat at one of the town's excellent cafés and bistros.

Yesnaby Orkney

Yesnaby Castle sea stack on the west coast of Orkney

Gaze out at the remarkable rock formation of Yesnaby Castle, a two-legged sea stack popular with climbers. Bring along binoculars and see how many different kinds of bird species you can spot while enjoying a revitalising coastal walk.

Yesnaby is also one of the few places where the rare and delicate flowering plant primula Scotica - more commonly known as Scottish primrose - grows. Visit in the summer when the clifftops are dotted with these vivid magenta flowers.

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village Sandwick

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Visit Skara Brae, one of the most remarkable prehistoric sites in the world. Older than the Egyptian pyramids, the Neolithic settlement is located on the Bay of Skaill. Uncovered by a sandstorm in 1850, it offers an unparalleled insight into how life was lived by Orkney's earliest inhabitants between 3200 and 2200 BC.

• On Public Transport Route
• Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
• Hearing Loop
• Cafe or Restaurant

Day 2 The Heart of Neolithic Orkney

Dedicate your second day in Orkney to unearthing the other archaeological treasures which form the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You might feel like you're Indiana Jones by the end of today!

Brough of Birsay Birsay

Looking Across To The Brough Of Birsay Across Skipi Geo From From The Whalebone On the Mainland.

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Make a stop at the Brough of Birsay, the remnants of Pictish and Viking settlements which are believed to date from the 7th -13th century. Here, you'll find traces of Viking and even older Pictish homes, the remains of a Viking monastery, an 11th century sauna, and the cast of a Pictish standing stone with its engravings still visible (the original is on display at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh).

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn Orkney

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

Maeshowe is the finest chambered tomb in north west Europe and is more than 5,000 years old.

Viking crusaders broke into the cairn in the 12th century and carved graffiti runes on the walls of the main chamber. Maeshowe is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site, along with Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar and the Stones of Stenness.

Ring of Brodgar Stromness

Ring of Brodgar

One of the finest stone circles in the world. Dating back from 2,500 to 2,000 BC, the stone ring was built in a true circle, 104 metres wide and originally contained sixty megaliths; today only twenty-seven of these stones remain.

Day 3 Isle of Hoy

Set off by ferry from Houton and head to the Isle of Hoy. Today you'll explore the second largest island in Orkney and enjoy its coastal delights.

Old Man of Hoy Hoy

Picnic At The Old Man Of Hoy, Orkney

© VisitScotland / Colin Keldie

Enjoy a bracing walk to the Old Man of Hoy, a dramatic sea stack which is the tallest in Britain and considered one of the most challenging ascents in the UK by climbers.

For detailed information about this walk, please visit the Walk Highlands website .

Scapa Flow Orkney

Why not explore the southern end of Hoy? At Scapa Flow Visitor Centre & Museum you can discover the major role Orkney played during both World Wars when the natural harbour of Scapa Flow served as a vital base for the British Royal Navy.

Day 4 Lamb Holm, Burray and South Ronaldsay

Today you'll cross back to Orkney Mainland, before heading to other islands via the causeways known as the Churchill Barriers and getting a further insight into two very different eras of Orkney's history.

The Italian Chapel Orkney

The Italian Chapel

Visit the Italian Chapel, a beautiful Roman Catholic chapel in Lamb Holm which was constructed by Italian POWs during the Second World War.

• Level Access

Day 5 Westray

Take a ferry from Kirkwall to the Isle of Westray, where you can discover this island's natural beauty and unique heritage.

Westray Heritage Centre Westray

Westray Heritage Centre

Westray is famed for being the site of the discovery of the Orkney Venus. Also known as the Westray Wife, it's a small Neolithic figurine which is the oldest representation of a human form ever found in Scotland, and the oldest depiction of a human face ever uncovered in the UK. At the Westray Heritage Centre in Pierowall , you can even pick up scrumptious shortbread biscuits in the shape of the Orkney Venus. Never has archaeology tasted so scrumptious!

Westray Orkney

Pure white sand in the foreground in the bay of Pierowall gives way to turquoise water with green fields over the sea

© Iain Sarjeant / VisitScotland

One of the first places in Orkney to be settled by the Vikings, Westray is small enough to explore by bike or car over the course of a day. On the coastline, you might spot puffins or other seabirds. Pop into one of the island's art galleries and see artworks and crafts inspired by Westray's beautiful blend of coastline and landscape.

Day 6 Kirkwall

It's been a busy few days in Orkney, but your last day on these islands has finally arrived. Before you set off for Shetland, explore more of Kirkwall's cultural offerings.

Arts and crafts Kirkwall

St Magnus Cathedral

© Orkney.com

Uncover more of Orkney's flourishing arts and crafts scene, where everything from jewellery to furniture is made. Explore the town's many galleries and shops and keep your eyes peeled for unique items.

The Orkney Museum Kirkwall

The Orkney Museum

Enjoy a wander around the Orkney Museum. Housed inside a beautifully restored merchant's residence, the museum offers a fascinating insight into Orkney's rich archaeological heritage. 

Day 7 Lerwick

You are now 100 miles from the Scottish mainland on the most northerly of the British Isles! Wake up and disembark from the ferry in Lerwick, the main port and bustling capital of Shetland. Spend today getting to know this harbour town and see its sights.

Shetland Museum & Archives Lerwick

Shetland Museum and Archives

Set on the waterfront within a restored 19th century dock in Lerwick, this fascinating museum tells the story of Shetland’s heritage and culture. 

• Accessible toilets

Clickimin Broch Near Lerwick

Clickimin Broch in Lerwick at night

Make the most of the fresh air and head to Clickimin Broch, the remnants of an Iron Age defensive tower located just outside Lerwick.

Fort Charlotte Lerwick

A NorthLink ferry sails from Aberdeen to Lerwick

© NorthLink Ferries

In the heart of Lerwick you'll find Fort Charlotte, an 18th century five-sided artillery fort which was named after the wife of George III. Originally built to protect the Sound of Bressay from the Dutch, Fort Charlotte is now a training base of the Territorial Army.

Pubs and bars Lerwick

Fjarå Café Bar, Lerwick

© Promote Shetland / Euan Myles

Find a cosy watering hole in Lerwick where you can sit back and relax with a locally brewed ale. If you're lucky, you might even stumble upon a lively jam session held by local musicians. Shetland boasts a thriving local music scene and you'll find that many of its musicians gather in pubs and bars during the evenings.

Day 8 South Mainland

We suggest an early start today - there's a lot to fit in! Today you'll be heading south to experience remarkable heritage sites. Soak up the history and imagine life in eras gone by!

Shetland Crofthouse Museum Lerwick

Historical Shetland Crofthouse Museum

Step back in time at this restored 19th century thatched cottage and see how Shetlanders would have lived in the 1870s.

Jarlshof Prehistoric & Norse Settlement South Mainland

Jarlshof Prehistoric & Norse Settlement, Sumburgh

The Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse settlements in Shetland are one of the most important and inspirational archaeological sites in Scotland.

Old Scatness Broch South Mainland

Old Scatness

Another amazingly well-preserved archaeological site is Old Scatness Broch, the remnants of an ancient village which lay buried for almost 2,000 years before being unearthed by archaeologists. Find out about the Neolithic, Pictish and Viking people who lived here at the site's excellent interpretive centre, and on guided tours which are available through the summer months.

Please note that Old Scatness is only open on Fridays. 

Sumburgh Head Nature Reserve South Mainland

Waves crashing into a large rock in the sea.

Sumburgh Head is located at the southern tip of mainland Shetland with the majestic 100 metre cliffs offering a fantastic, unobstructed view of the seabird colonies and marine life surrounding it.

• Pets Welcome

Mousa Broch Sandwick

A couple exploring Mousa Broch

You can take a boat out to see one of Europe's finest archaeological marvels. Standing at a height of more than 13 m, Mousa Broch is the most impressive and best preserved Iron Age tower in Scotland. After a short boat crossing from Sandwick, you can climb the narrow steps to the top of the broch and take in breathtaking views across Mousa Sound.  If you take the boat trip in the evening, you might witness a thrilling natural spectacle, when swarms of storm petrels seek the cover of darkness and return to their nests inside the broch.

St Ninian's Isle South Mainland

St Ninian's Isle, joined to Mainland by a tombolo of sand at Bigton, Shetland.

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins, all rights reserved.

St. Ninians Isle beach is a large natural sand causeway with sea on either side. On the west coast of Shetland, it links the South Mainland with the Isle. This is the location where a horde of silver Viking treasure was discovered hidden beneath the island's chapel in 1958.

Day 9 Central Mainland

Explore the central mainland of Shetland, including the sheltered seaport of Scalloway, only 6 miles from Lerwick. It was known as the capital of the islands till 1708 and has had its fair share of history.

Scalloway Museum Shetland

Scalloway Museum

Visit the Scalloway Museum and discover the fascinating story of the Shetland Bus, the name given to a covert wartime operation. Conducted between the Royal Navy and the Norwegian Resistance, it involved Shetland fishing vessels helping to transport supplies, weapons and Allied agents out of Nazi-occupied Norway. The Museum also has exhibits covering Ancient Scalloway, The Boom Years and Scalloway’s people.

Central Mainland Shetland

Central Mainland

Make your way to Whiteness and Weisdale, passing through the Tingwall Valley, where the Vikings are said to have held their annual parliament. Whiteness and Weisadale are popular walking spots. There's an abundance of indigenous flora and fauna, pretty bays and some of the loveliest views in all of Shetland.

Day 10 North West Mainland

Today, explore the north west part of the Shetland Mainland, known as the Northmavine peninsula, and discover local history and stretch your legs and see the best of Shetland's landscape on a rejuvenating walk!

Tangwick Haa Museum North Mainland

Tangwick Haa Museum

Originally built in the late 17th century for the Cheyne family, owners of the Tangwick estate, Tangwick Haa was converted into a local history museum in the late 1980s which displays exhibits relating to the development of Northmavine and its people.

Eshaness Eshaness

The Eshaness Cliffs

Soak up the area's natural beauty on the picturesque circular walking route and discover some of Shetland's wildest and most breathtaking coastline.

Day 11 Unst

Cross from the Mainland to the island of Yell, and then catch the 10 minute ferry crossing to neighbouring Unst, Britain's most northerly island to uncover the remnants of the Vikings, see incredible geology and admire the island's natural heritage.

Viking Heritage on Unst Unst

Jarl Squad March with their replica Viking galley

Explore the excavated Viking longhouse sites of Unst. Highlights of which include the reconstructed longhouse at Hamar and the nearby Skidbladner, an impressive replica Gokstad ship. Managed by the Shetland Amenity Trust, you can find out just what the digs revealed about the Norse Vikings who settled on the islands.

Unst Heritage Centre Unst

Unst Heritage Centre

The island has the distinction of being home to the highest number of Viking longhouse remnants in the world. At Unst Heritage Museum and Unst Boat Haven in Haroldswick, find out more about the archaeological digs and Shetland's maritime history.

Hermaness National Nature Reserve Shetland

Hermaness National Nature Reserve

Unst is a bit of a nature lover's paradise, and a visit to one of its beautiful National Nature Reserves is a must. Explore the sweeping hillsides of Keen of Hamar or at Hermaness, walk to the dramatic cliff and see thousands of breeding seabirds, such a puffins, kittiwakes and fulmars.

Day 12 Yell

It's the final day! Depart Unst and start to make your way back to Shetland Mainland. Before you leave Shetland and catch the evening ferry departure from Lerwick, you might just have time to catch some of Yell's natural highlights. You'll find some of the best beaches in the UK!

Sands of Breckon Yell

The Sands Of Breckon (An Award Winning White Sand Beach And Arguably Shetland's Finest), On The Island Of Yell, Shetland

In the very north of the island, you can discover the Sands of Breckon, where shell sand dunes are bordered by crystal clear waters and dune grass lands.

West Sandwick Yell

West Sandwick

Visit West Sandwick on Yell's western coastline, close to the villages of Shandwick and Balintore and enjoy a stroll along unspoilt white sands.

Old Haa Yell

At Burravore in the south of the island, discover the story of Yell's folklore and history at the Old Haa, a museum set in the house of a 17th century laird. You can also see artworks by local creative talents, or tuck into some home-baking in the tearoom.

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