Discover the Historic Battleship HMS 'Royal Oak'
Explore the HMS 'Royal Oak', a historical memorial in Kirkwall honoring the bravery of sailors lost in WWII, steeped in maritime history.
The Battleship HMS 'Royal Oak' is a significant historical memorial located in Kirkwall, Orkney, serving as a tribute to the brave sailors who lost their lives during World War II. This majestic ship, launched in 1914, was famously sunk by a German U-boat in 1939, claiming the lives of over 800 men. Today, the site stands as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during the war. Visitors can pay their respects while enjoying the serene views of the surrounding waters. As you approach the memorial, you will be struck by the peacefulness of the location, which contrasts sharply with the tragic events that unfolded here. The site is well-maintained, offering information plaques that detail the history of the HMS 'Royal Oak' and the events that led to its sinking. These narratives bring to life the stories of the crew members and the impact of their loss on families and communities. While visiting, take a moment to reflect at the memorial, which is often adorned with fresh flowers and tokens from visitors paying their respects. The location is not just about remembrance; it is also about education and understanding the broader context of naval history. You might find it beneficial to plan your visit during the quieter hours to fully absorb the solemn atmosphere and perhaps engage in thoughtful discussions with fellow history enthusiasts. The HMS 'Royal Oak' memorial is an essential stop for anyone interested in maritime history or the sacrifices of those who served. Its combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes it a remarkable place to visit while exploring Kirkwall.
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the serene views of the harbor.
- Read the information plaques to gain deeper insights into the memorial's history.
- Consider combining your visit with a tour of other historical sites in Kirkwall.
A brief summary to Battleship HMS ‘Royal Oak’
- W2H7+HM, Kirkwall, GB
- Visit website
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, start from Kirkwall, the largest town in Orkney. Head southwest on the A961 towards Scapa. Continue on the A961 for about 3 miles until you reach the junction with the B9056. Turn left onto the B9056 and follow it for approximately 1 mile. Look for signs directing you to the memorial site. The coordinates you need to reach are approximately W2H7+HM, Kirkwall (latitude: 58.928889, longitude: -2.9858331). There is parking available near the memorial.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Battleship HMS ‘Royal Oak’ via public transport, start from Kirkwall Bus Station. Take the bus heading towards Scapa on the A961 route. After about 15 minutes, disembark at the stop closest to the junction for B9056. From there, you will need to walk approximately 1 mile to the memorial. Ensure to check the local bus schedule for departure times, as they may vary.
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Walking
If you're already in Kirkwall and prefer to walk, start from the town center. Walk southwest towards the A961 road. After you reach the A961, follow it for about 3 miles, then turn left onto B9056. Continue walking on this road for about 1 mile until you see the memorial site. This walk will take approximately 1 hour and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Attractions Nearby to Battleship HMS ‘Royal Oak’
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Royal Oak Remembrance Garden
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Scapa Beach
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Scapa Distillery Visitor Centre
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Highland Park Whisky Distillery
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Scapa Flow
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Waulkmill Bay
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Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces
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The Orkney Museum
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St Magnus Cathedral
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The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre
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Orkney Wireless Museum
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Churchill Barriers
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Grain Earth House
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Wideford Hill Scenic View
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Italian Chapel
