Discover Orkney | A Visitor's Introduction to The Orkney Islands

Why Are the Orkney Islands Worth a Visit?

The Orkney Islands are worth visiting for their incredible archaeological sites, stunning coastal scenery, and vibrant cultural traditions. The islands’ history stretches back over 5,000 years, with sites like Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar offering glimpses into ancient life. Orkney’s dramatic cliffs and sheltered bays provide ideal spots for wildlife spotting, including seabirds, seals, and orcas. The islands are also home to charming villages, traditional craft shops, and local distilleries, providing an authentic experience of island life. Whether you’re exploring Viking history, hiking the coastal trails, or enjoying local seafood, the Orkney Islands have something to enchant every visitor.

Orkney Highlights: Things to See and Do in the Orkney Islands

Skara Brae

Skara Brae is one of the best-preserved Neolithic settlements in Western Europe, dating back over 5,000 years. Located on the main island, this UNESCO World Heritage Site allows visitors to step back in time and explore ancient stone dwellings, complete with furniture and hearths. The site’s visitor centre offers interactive exhibits and provides fascinating insights into the daily lives of Orkney’s earliest inhabitants. Skara Brae’s proximity to the picturesque Bay of Skaill makes it a stunning spot to explore and photograph.

The Ring of Brodgar

The Ring of Brodgar is an impressive stone circle and one of the most iconic landmarks on the Orkney Islands. This mystical circle of standing stones is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site and is thought to have been used for ceremonial purposes. Surrounded by open countryside, the Ring of Brodgar offers a hauntingly beautiful setting, especially at sunrise or sunset when the stones cast long shadows. The nearby Ness of Brodgar, an ongoing archaeological dig site, is also worth visiting, as it reveals more about Orkney’s ancient ceremonial practices.

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

Maeshowe is a remarkable Neolithic chambered tomb built around 2800 BC, famous for its impressive engineering and unique Norse graffiti carved by Viking visitors. During the winter solstice, the setting sun aligns perfectly with the entrance passage, illuminating the tomb’s interior—an awe-inspiring experience for those lucky enough to witness it. Guided tours take visitors inside the tomb, where knowledgeable guides explain the significance of the structure and the Viking graffiti left by raiders centuries later.

St Magnus Cathedral

Located in Kirkwall, St Magnus Cathedral is a striking example of medieval architecture and one of the Orkneys’ most visited landmarks. Built in the 12th century by Norse Earl Rognvald in memory of St Magnus, this sandstone cathedral has a towering presence and beautiful stained glass. Inside, visitors can explore ancient tombstones and intricate carvings, while the surrounding churchyard provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kirkwall. St Magnus Cathedral is sometimes called the “Light of the North” and remains one of Scotland’s most impressive historic churches.

Italian Chapel

The Italian Chapel is a beautiful and unique chapel located on Lamb Holm, built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II. Using limited materials, these prisoners transformed two Nissen huts into an ornate chapel adorned with paintings, ironwork, and delicate detailing. The chapel is a symbol of resilience and artistry, with frescoes and decorations created from simple materials and a deep sense of faith. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship of the prisoners, who created a moving tribute to peace and hope amid wartime hardship.

Orkney Distillery and Highland Park Distillery

Orkney is home to two renowned distilleries: Highland Park Distillery and Orkney Distillery. Highland Park, one of the northernmost distilleries in Scotland, has been producing whisky since 1798 and is famous for its smoky, peated malts. Visitors can tour the distillery, learn about traditional whisky-making techniques, and sample Highland Park’s acclaimed single malts. Orkney Distillery, located in Kirkwall, produces Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin, crafted with locally sourced botanicals. The distillery’s tasting room offers gin tastings and cocktails, providing a modern twist on Orkney’s distilling heritage.

Kirkwall

Kirkwall, Orkney’s capital, is a vibrant town with a blend of history, culture, and local charm. Known for its narrow streets, traditional shops, and historic buildings, Kirkwall is home to St Magnus Cathedral, the Earl’s and Bishop’s Palaces, and a variety of independent stores. Visitors can browse Orkney’s craft shops, which sell jewellery, textiles, and ceramics, and enjoy local cuisine at one of the town’s restaurants or pubs. The town’s harbour offers views over the sea and is a great place to start a coastal walk or boat tour.

Rousay

Rousay, known as the “Egypt of the North,” is an island rich in archaeological sites and natural beauty. Rousay has over 100 ancient sites, including burial cairns, stone circles, and brochs, which give it a unique historical significance. Visitors can explore Midhowe Broch and Midhowe Cairn, two impressive ancient structures overlooking the sea. The island’s rugged landscape also makes it a perfect destination for hiking, birdwatching, and photography, with plenty of coastal trails and cliffside views.

Brough of Birsay

The Brough of Birsay is a tidal island off the northwest coast of the Orkney Mainland, accessible by a causeway at low tide. This ancient settlement includes the ruins of a Pictish and Norse village, as well as the remains of a Viking church and a lighthouse. The Brough of Birsay is rich in history and offers excellent coastal views, with frequent sightings of puffins and seals during the summer months. The island’s tidal causeway adds an extra element of adventure, though visitors should check tide times before crossing.

Scapa Flow

Scapa Flow is a historic body of water with a long naval history, used as a naval base in both World Wars. Today, Scapa Flow is one of the world’s premier diving destinations, with the remains of German battleships scuttled in 1919 lying beneath its waters. Visitors interested in diving can explore the wrecks and learn about Orkney’s role in naval history. Those who prefer to stay on land can learn about Scapa Flow’s wartime significance at the Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum in Lyness, on Hoy.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

The Orkney Islands are accessible by both ferry and plane. Ferries operate from Scrabster (to Stromness), Aberdeen (to Kirkwall), and John O’Groats (to Burwick), with frequent sailings during the summer. The ferry from Scrabster to Stromness offers particularly scenic views as it passes the Old Man of Hoy sea stack. Flights to Kirkwall are available from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen, making the Orkneys easy to reach from Scotland’s major cities.

Getting Around

While Kirkwall and Stromness are walkable, renting a car is recommended for exploring the more remote areas and islands. Orkney has a good network of roads and regular bus services that connect Kirkwall to key destinations. Ferries run frequently between the main islands, allowing for easy day trips to Rousay, Hoy, Shapinsay, and Westray. Biking is also popular, with bike rentals available for those who want a slower pace to enjoy the scenery.

Accommodation

Accommodation options in Orkney range from cosy B&Bs and guesthouses to hotels and self-catering cottages. Kirkwall and Stromness have the widest selection of accommodation, though there are several charming options on other islands, including Rousay and Hoy. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during the peak summer months, as the islands are popular with tourists from around the world.

Dining

Orkney offers a delightful food scene, with an emphasis on local produce, seafood, and traditional Scottish dishes. Fresh seafood, such as scallops, crab, and salmon, is abundant, while Orkney’s lamb, beef, and dairy products are of excellent quality. In Kirkwall, The Foveran and Helgi’s are popular restaurants known for their locally-sourced ingredients. Fish and chips are also a favourite, and many local cafés serve homemade baked goods. Be sure to try Orkney’s own ice cream and cheese, which are highly regarded across Scotland.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Orkney is between late spring and early autumn (May to September) when the weather is mild and days are long. This period also offers the best chance to see wildlife, including seabird colonies and migrating marine life. Late June brings the midsummer solstice, celebrated with events and festivals across the islands. Winter is quieter and colder, with shorter days, but the chance to witness the Northern Lights adds an element of magic to winter visits.

Local Events

Orkney hosts several traditional festivals and events that showcase island culture. The Orkney Folk Festival in May attracts musicians from across Scotland and beyond, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary folk music. The St Magnus Festival in June is a renowned arts and music festival that brings concerts, theatre, and exhibitions to Kirkwall. In December, the Kirkwall Ba’ Game, a unique street football event, takes place, drawing locals and visitors alike to watch this spirited tradition.

Exploring Beyond Orkney Mainland

The Orkney Islands are full of opportunities for exploration beyond the Mainland. Hoy is known for its dramatic sea cliffs and the iconic Old Man of Hoy rock formation. Shapinsay is popular for its wildlife, with scenic walks and excellent birdwatching. Westray and Papa Westray offer beautiful coastal landscapes and additional archaeological sites, including the Knap of Howar, one of the oldest known stone houses in Europe.