Orkney: The Enchanted Archipelago
Discover Orkney: A magical blend of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture in Scotland's enchanting archipelago.
Orkney, a captivating group of islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland, is a haven for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. The archipelago boasts a rich tapestry of ancient sites, from the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Skara Brae, Maeshowe, and the Ring of Brodgar to the standing stones of Stenness. These archaeological wonders transport visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into the lives of Neolithic settlers. Beyond its historical allure, Orkney's natural beauty is simply breathtaking. Rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and rolling hills provide a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and marine wildlife spotting. The islands are home to a diverse array of seabirds, as well as seals, dolphins, and even the occasional whale. The ever-changing Orkney skies, known for their dramatic light and color, are a constant source of inspiration. The local culture in Orkney is vibrant and welcoming. Traditional music, arts, and crafts thrive here, with many festivals and events celebrating the islands' heritage throughout the year. Visitors can explore charming villages, sample local delicacies like Orkney cheese and fresh seafood, and enjoy the warmth of Orcadian hospitality. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, admiring stunning landscapes, or immersing yourself in local traditions, Orkney offers an unforgettable experience.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Orkney.
- Visit during late spring or summer for the best weather and longest daylight hours.
- Book accommodations and ferry tickets well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Wear layers and waterproof clothing; Orkney weather can change rapidly.
- Don't miss the Orkney Museum in Kirkwall for a deeper understanding of the islands' history.
- Try local specialties like Orkney fudge, cheese, and seafood at local markets and eateries.
Orkney: The Enchanted Archipelago
Orkney, a captivating group of islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland, is a haven for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. The archipelago boasts a rich tapestry of ancient sites, from the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Skara Brae, Maeshowe, and the Ring of Brodgar to the standing stones of Stenness. These archaeological wonders transport visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into the lives of Neolithic settlers. Beyond its historical allure, Orkney's natural beauty is simply breathtaking. Rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and rolling hills provide a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and marine wildlife spotting. The islands are home to a diverse array of seabirds, as well as seals, dolphins, and even the occasional whale. The ever-changing Orkney skies, known for their dramatic light and color, are a constant source of inspiration. The local culture in Orkney is vibrant and welcoming. Traditional music, arts, and crafts thrive here, with many festivals and events celebrating the islands' heritage throughout the year. Visitors can explore charming villages, sample local delicacies like Orkney cheese and fresh seafood, and enjoy the warmth of Orcadian hospitality. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, admiring stunning landscapes, or immersing yourself in local traditions, Orkney offers an unforgettable experience.
Explore the best of what Orkney has to offer
When is the best time to go to Orkney?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Magnus Cathedral
Discover Scotland’s only complete medieval cathedral, a stunning red and yellow sandstone masterpiece steeped in Viking history and spiritual heritage.
Cuween Hill Chambered Cairn
A 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb where ancient rituals and mysteries still whisper from the darkness.
Churchill Barriers
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
The Cannon
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
Rennibister Earth House
Explore Rennibister Earth House, a mysterious Iron Age underground passage in Orkney, where ancient human remains reveal a haunting prehistoric story.
Grain Earth House
Explore Kirkwall’s hidden Iron Age subterranean marvel, Grain Earth House, where ancient stone pillars guard secrets beneath a modern industrial estate.
HMS TERN (RNAS Twatt)
Explore HMS Tern, Orkney’s preserved WWII naval air station, where history and rugged landscapes meet in a unique wartime heritage site.
Burroughston Broch
An Iron Age tower standing sentinel on Orkney's windswept cliffs, where ancient stones meet the North Sea.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Hoy High Lighthouse
Historic 1851 lighthouse on Graemsay guiding ships safely through Hoy Sound to Stromness, embodying Orkney’s rich maritime legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Skara Brae Prehistoric Village
Step back 5,000 years at Skara Brae, Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic village with stone houses, ancient furniture, and immersive exhibitions.
Ring of Brodgar
Explore the majestic Neolithic Ring of Brodgar, a vast stone circle and henge steeped in mystery and ancient ritual on Orkney’s Mainland.
Italian Chapel
A stunning WWII chapel on Lamb Holm, crafted by Italian POWs, symbolizing faith, artistry, and resilience amid adversity.
St Magnus Cathedral
Explore Scotland’s oldest cathedral, a stunning medieval masterpiece and spiritual heart of Orkney, rich with Norse history and vibrant cultural life.
Standing Stones of Stenness
Explore the ancient Standing Stones of Stenness, a mystical Neolithic henge and one of the oldest stone circles in the British Isles, set amidst Orkney’s stunning landscapes.
Skara Brae Visitor Centre
Explore one of Europe’s oldest and best-preserved Neolithic villages with a modern visitor centre and rich archaeological insights on Orkney’s stunning coast.
Broch of Gurness
Explore one of Scotland’s finest Iron Age brochs and village ruins set against the stunning coastal landscape of Orkney.
Yesnaby
Dramatic sandstone cliffs, ancient fossils, and the iconic two-legged sea stack create a captivating coastal experience on Orkney’s wild west shore.
Maeshowe Visitor Centre
Discover the ancient mysteries of Maeshowe, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb famed for its winter solstice alignment and Viking runes in Orkney.
Birsay Earl's Palace
Explore the windswept ruins of a 16th-century earl’s palace on Orkney’s northern coast, where Renaissance ambition met ruthless rule and dramatic coastal scenery.
Scapa Beach
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history of Scapa Beach, a scenic coastal gem near Kirkwall in Orkney.
Ness of Brodgar
Explore the monumental Neolithic heart of Orkney, where ancient ceremonial grandeur and intricate artistry reveal 5,000 years of history.
Stromness Museum
Explore Orkney’s maritime past and natural wonders at Stromness Museum, a captivating cultural gem on the waterfront.
Brough of Birsay
Explore a tidal island rich with Pictish symbols, Viking ruins, medieval churches, and vibrant seabird colonies including puffins.
Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces
Explore Kirkwall’s medieval and Renaissance palaces where Norse kings and notorious earls shaped Orkney’s history.
Essential places to dine
Ferry Inn Stromness
A cozy, historic inn on Stromness harbour offering hearty local cuisine and warm hospitality just steps from the ferry terminal.
Helgi's
A vibrant harbourfront gastropub blending Orkney’s Viking heritage with fresh local fare and lively community spirit.
Lucano
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant
Historic charm meets fresh seafood in Orkney’s welcoming Murray Arms Hotel, a cozy coastal retreat in St Margaret's Hope.
Julia's Cafe Bistro
Cozy cafe in Stromness offering freshly made rolls with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
The Sands Hotel, Orkney
A welcoming coastal retreat on Burray Island with stunning sea views, excellent dining, and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney.
Happy Haddock
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
The Foveran
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Trenabies Cafe Bistro
Cozy cafe and bistro in Kirkwall offering hearty local dishes, great coffee, and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Orkney Hotel
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms
A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms.
Busters Diner
A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
Leigh's Real Taste of Orkney
Discover Orkney’s finest takeaway flavors at Leigh's, where local produce meets generous portions and friendly service in Finstown.
Skerries Bistro
Experience fresh, locally sourced seafood with breathtaking Pentland Firth views at Skerries Bistro, South Ronaldsay’s coastal dining jewel.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Judith Glue
Discover Kirkwall’s charming Aladdin’s Cave of local gifts, knitwear, and jewellery at Judith Glue, a beloved hub of Orcadian craftsmanship since 1976.
Celina Rupp Jewellery
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery and café where island stories become wearable art.
The Orcadian Bookshop
Discover Orkney’s stories and culture at The Orcadian Bookshop, Kirkwall’s independent literary gem in the historic city centre.
Orkney Tweed
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Poundstretcher
Discover unbeatable value and variety at Poundstretcher Kirkwall, your go-to discount store in the heart of Orkney’s town center.
The Longship
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Orkney Antique Centre
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through a captivating collection of antiques in the historic former community centre of Birsay.
Woolshed
Discover authentic Orkney woolcraft at The Woolshed, a historic knit shop and workshop set amidst stunning island landscapes.
Blue Joe's
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and unique souvenirs at Blue Joe's, Kirkwall’s charming gift shop full of local treasures and stories.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Starlings
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Workshop & Loft Gallery
Discover authentic Orcadian knitwear, crafts, and art in the welcoming Workshop & Loft Gallery of St Margaret's Hope.
Aurora Jewellery
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Kairds
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Vintage Paper Co
Discover handmade papers, artisanal bookbinding, and unique stationery in the heart of Stromness at Vintage Paper Co.
