Judith Glue: Kirkwall’s Iconic Gift and Knitwear Shop
Discover Kirkwall’s charming Aladdin’s Cave of local gifts, knitwear, and jewellery at Judith Glue, a beloved hub of Orcadian craftsmanship since 1976.
Located at 25 Broad Street in Kirkwall, Judith Glue is a beloved gift shop known for its eclectic mix of locally sourced jewellery, knitwear, accessories, and unique gifts. Established in 1976, this charming blue-fronted store offers visitors a treasure trove of Orcadian crafts and artisan products, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic Orkney souvenirs and handmade items.
A brief summary to Judith Glue
- 25 Broad St, Kirkwall, KW15 1DH, GB
- +441856874225
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter shopping experience and more attentive service.
- Explore the knitwear collection for authentic Orcadian wool products, perfect for chilly weather.
- Check out locally crafted jewellery featuring designs inspired by Orkney’s natural and cultural heritage.
- Combine your visit with a stroll around St Magnus Cathedral, located just opposite the shop.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Judith Glue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Judith Glue
A Storied Hub of Orkney Craftsmanship
Judith Glue has been a cornerstone of Kirkwall’s retail scene since its founding in 1976. The shop’s distinctive blue frontage invites visitors into what many describe as an Aladdin’s Cave of treasures. Inside, the shelves and displays brim with an array of carefully curated gifts, from exquisite jewellery to warm knitwear, much of which is crafted by local artisans. This dedication to local sourcing not only supports Orkney’s creative community but also ensures that every item carries a story and a sense of place.Curated Collections Reflecting Orcadian Heritage
The shop’s offerings extend beyond typical souvenirs. Visitors find a rich selection of accessories and clothing that blend traditional techniques with contemporary design. The knitwear, in particular, showcases the skill and heritage of Orkney’s wool craft, prized for its quality and warmth in the island’s cool climate. Jewellery pieces often feature motifs inspired by the islands’ natural and cultural history, making each purchase a meaningful memento.Atmosphere and Location in Kirkwall’s Heart
Situated opposite the iconic St Magnus Cathedral, Judith Glue benefits from a prime location in Kirkwall’s bustling town centre. The shop’s welcoming and stylish interior complements its historic setting, creating a relaxed yet vibrant shopping experience. The staff are known for their friendly and knowledgeable service, enhancing the visitor experience by sharing insights about the products and their origins.A Destination for Gift Seekers and Culture Enthusiasts
Whether you are searching for a unique gift, a piece of local art, or simply wish to explore Orkney’s creative spirit, Judith Glue offers a rich and rewarding visit. The shop’s blend of farm shop elements and knitwear specialty adds layers of interest, appealing to a diverse range of shoppers. Its reputation as a charming and stylish establishment makes it a highlight of any Kirkwall itinerary.Supporting Local Economy and Sustainability
Judith Glue’s commitment to local producers and artisans contributes to the sustainability and economic vitality of Orkney. By promoting locally made goods, the shop helps preserve traditional crafts and encourages environmentally conscious shopping. This ethos resonates with visitors who value authentic cultural experiences and responsible tourism.Timings and Practical Information
Open Monday to Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Judith Glue is easily accessible for both locals and tourists. Its central location and welcoming atmosphere make it a convenient stop during a day of exploring Kirkwall’s historic streets and landmarks.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
10.2 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
10.5 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
The Cannon
19.7 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
John O'Groats Signpost
38.1 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Knap of Howar
41.0 km
Explore Knap of Howar, a Neolithic gem in Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Dunnet Head Lighthouse
42.0 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich heritage of Dunnet Head Lighthouse, Scotland's northernmost landmark with breathtaking coastal views.
Bucholie Castle
45.5 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views of Bucholie Castle, an enchanting historical landmark in Nybster, near Wick, Scotland.
Above and Beyond Tours
45.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Mary Ann's Cottage
45.9 km
Explore the fascinating history of Caithness at Mary Ann's Cottage, a charming museum showcasing 19th-century life and culture.
Caithness Broch Centre
47.8 km
Explore the ancient Iron Age at the Caithness Broch Centre, a unique attraction that unveils the mysteries of Scotland's historic broch structures.
Nybster Broch
48.3 km
Discover the enchanting Nybster Broch, an ancient Iron Age site in Scotland offering a unique glimpse into Pictish history amidst stunning coastal vistas.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
49.1 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
49.2 km
Discover the captivating history and culture of Castletown at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, a unique museum in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Old Keiss Castle
50.0 km
Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.
Whitegate broch
50.5 km
An atmospheric Iron Age broch perched on a Caithness headland, offering dramatic sea views and a powerful sense of Scotland’s ancient past.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Tankerness House
0.0 km
Explore Orkney’s rich history in the stunning 16th-century Tankerness House, home to the internationally significant Orkney Museum.
St Magnus Cathedral
0.1 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest cathedral, a stunning medieval masterpiece and spiritual heart of Orkney, rich with Norse history and vibrant cultural life.
Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces
0.1 km
Explore Kirkwall’s medieval and Renaissance palaces where Norse kings and notorious earls shaped Orkney’s history.
Badly Drawn Cat
0.2 km
A cozy vegan café and art gallery in Kirkwall blending plant-based delights with local creativity and friendly charm.
The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre
0.3 km
Discover Orkney’s hand-crafted spirits and rich heritage at Kirkwall’s vibrant distillery and visitor centre on the historic harbour front.
Spirit of Orkney
0.3 km
Explore the historic heart of Kirkwall where Orkney’s rich Norse heritage and vibrant local culture come alive.
Orkney Wireless Museum
0.3 km
Explore a century of wireless communication and wartime heritage in Orkney’s volunteer-run museum with interactive exhibits and rare memorabilia.
Grain Earth House
1.0 km
Discover the enchanting Grain Earth House, a historical landmark in Kirkwall, Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Highland Park Whisky Distillery
1.5 km
Explore the northernmost Scotch whisky distillery, blending Viking heritage and Orkney’s unique peat smoke into world-renowned single malts.
Scapa Beach
2.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history of Scapa Beach, a scenic coastal gem near Kirkwall in Orkney.
Wideford Hill Scenic View
3.8 km
A quiet Orkney hilltop with sweeping views over Kirkwall, the Bay of Firth, and the surrounding countryside, perfect for panoramic photos and peaceful reflection.
Wideford Hill Cairn
4.1 km
Explore Wideford Hill Cairn, a majestic 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb in Orkney, blending ancient architecture with celestial mysteries and stunning views.
Rennibister Earth House
5.4 km
Discover the Rennibister Earth House, a prehistoric marvel nestled in the Orkney Islands, embodying ancient heritage and natural beauty.
Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café
6.9 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery in a restored church, where ancient enamelling techniques meet contemporary design.
Waulkmill Bay
7.9 km
Discover Waulkmill Bay, Orkney’s peaceful golden beach with stunning Scapa Flow views and a hidden coastal charm perfect for picnics and nature lovers.
Essential places to dine
Lucano
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
The Orkney Hotel
0.2 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
0.2 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Busters Diner
0.2 km
A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
Trenabies Cafe Bistro
0.3 km
Cozy cafe and bistro in Kirkwall offering hearty local dishes, great coffee, and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Twenty One
0.3 km
A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Bothy Bar
0.3 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Happy Haddock
0.3 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Pomona Cafe
0.3 km
A cozy, traditional Kirkwall cafe serving hearty breakfasts and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney’s capital.
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms
0.3 km
A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms.
Helgi's
0.3 km
A vibrant harbourfront gastropub blending Orkney’s Viking heritage with fresh local fare and lively community spirit.
Dil Se Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Kirkwall’s award-winning Dil Se Restaurant, blending tradition with local freshness.
The Shore
0.4 km
Modern waterfront hotel in Kirkwall's harbor district with clean rooms, full breakfast, and walking access to town attractions.
Sakura Kitchen
0.6 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
The Foveran
4.0 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Judith Glue
0.0 km
Discover Kirkwall’s charming Aladdin’s Cave of local gifts, knitwear, and jewellery at Judith Glue, a beloved hub of Orcadian craftsmanship since 1976.
The Longship
0.1 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Blue Joe's
0.1 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and unique souvenirs at Blue Joe's, Kirkwall’s charming gift shop full of local treasures and stories.
Aurora Jewellery
0.1 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Orkney Tweed
0.1 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Starlings
0.1 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
0.2 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Kairds
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Poundstretcher
0.2 km
Discover unbeatable value and variety at Poundstretcher Kirkwall, your go-to discount store in the heart of Orkney’s town center.
The Orcadian Bookshop
0.3 km
Discover Orkney’s stories and culture at The Orcadian Bookshop, Kirkwall’s independent literary gem in the historic city centre.
Orkney Souvenirs
0.4 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and local treasures in Kirkwall’s welcoming souvenir shop, celebrating island heritage and artistry.
Anchor Shopping Centre
0.4 km
A compact, modern shopping mall in central Kirkwall, offering everyday essentials, fashion, health and beauty, and practical services in a convenient indoor setting.
The Original Orkney Hamper Company
0.4 km
Discover authentic Orkney flavors and handcrafted gifts in charming hampers from Kirkwall’s beloved local shop.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
0.6 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Celina Rupp Jewellery
10.1 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery and café where island stories become wearable art.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
0.2 km
Discover Kirkwall’s historic Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar, home to over 1,000 whiskies, 160 gins, and authentic Orcadian hospitality in a 350-year-old setting.
Auld Motor Hoose
0.2 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
0.3 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Oot The Back
0.3 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
0.4 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Highland Park Bar
0.4 km
A cozy Kirkwall bar serving an extensive range of Highland Park whiskies and local drinks in a warm, inviting atmosphere within the Kirkwall Hotel.
Skippers
0.4 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
0.4 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
The West End Guest House
0.4 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
The Taversoe
17.0 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
17.4 km
A warm, family-run coffeehouse and bar in historic St Margaret's Hope, serving traditional fare, local drinks, and inclusive menus in a charming setting.
The Belsair
34.6 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
The Mey Hotel
41.4 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
45.9 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Village Inn
50.6 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Eco-Friendly
- Sustainable
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly