Private Half Day Tour in Orkney
Orkney, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Explore the inspiring Italian Chapel's history
- Marvel at breathtaking views from Yesnaby Cliffs
- Discover the ancient village of Skara Brae
- Experience the wonder of Ring of Brodgar
- Uncover secrets at the Unstan Burial Tomb
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Duration: 6 hours
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Private transportation included
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Driver Guide provided
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Admission to Italian Chapel
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Admission to Skara Brae
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Orkney's rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature with a Private Half Day Tour. Over six enchanting hours, travelers explore the Italian Chapel, a stunning testament to creativity born from adversity, and the breathtaking Yesnaby Cliffs, where dramatic sea stacks meet the roaring Atlantic. Dive into the ancient world at Skara Brae, Europe's best-preserved Neolithic village, and marvel at the mystical Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness, revered for their ritualistic past. The Unstan Burial Tomb offers a glimpse into ancient burial practices, completing this captivating experience. With private transportation and a knowledgeable driver guide, this tour promises an intimate exploration of Orkney's treasures, ensuring every moment is steeped in wonder and discovery.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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6 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore Orkney's rich history on a private half-day tour, visiting iconic sites like Skara Brae, the Italian Chapel, and breathtaking coastal views.
Included
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Private transportationPrivate transportation -
Bottled waterBottled water
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OtherItalian Chapel Entry Fee
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OtherDriver Guide
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OtherSkarabrae Entry Fee
Excluded
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Alcoholic beveragesAlcoholic Beverages -
DinnerDinner
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BreakfastBreakfast
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On-board WiFiWiFi on board
Meeting Point
Bus Station Stand 5 or Cruise Terminal at Hatston Pier
Kirkwall KW15 1AB , United Kingdom
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
The Italian Chapel is a small but famous church built during the Second World War by Italian prisoners of war held on the Orkney island of Lamb Holm. Constructed in 1943, the chapel was made from two simple Nissen huts that the prisoners transformed using scrap materials while working on the nearby Churchill Barriers. Despite limited resources, they decorated the interior with detailed paintings and features to resemble a traditional Catholic church, led by artist Domenico Chiocchetti. Today, it is seen as a powerful symbol of creativity, faith, and hope in difficult circumstances, and is one of Orkney’s most popular historic sites.
30 minutes
Admission Included
Scapa Flow
Scapa Flow is a large natural harbour in the Orkney Islands in northern Scotland. It is one of the biggest and most sheltered natural harbours in the world. Historically, it is best known as a major British naval base, especially during both the First and Second World Wars. The British Royal Navy used it as its main anchorage due to its strategic location and protection from rough seas. One of the most famous events associated with Scapa Flow is the Scuttling of the German Fleet at Scapa Flow, when German warships were deliberately sunk by their crews after World War I to prevent them from being seized by the Allies. Today, Scapa Flow is also popular for diving, as many of the sunken wrecks remain on the seabed, attracting divers from around the world.
30 minutes
Admission Included
Yesnaby Cliffs are dramatic coastal cliffs on the west coast of Orkney’s Mainland, facing the Atlantic Ocean. They are known for their striking red sandstone formations, sea stacks, and natural rock arches, shaped by powerful waves and winds over thousands of years. One of the most famous features is a tall sea stack called the “Yesnaby Castle.” The cliffs are also rich in wildlife, especially seabirds such as puffins, fulmars, and kittiwakes, making them a great spot for birdwatching. Today, Yesnaby Cliffs are popular with walkers and photographers, offering spectacular views, especially at sunset, and a vivid sense of Orkney’s rugged natural beauty.
20 minutes
Skara Brae Prehistoric Village
Skara Brae is a remarkably well-preserved prehistoric village on the west coast of Orkney’s Mainland. Dating back over 5,000 years (around 3100 BCE), it is older than both the Stonehenge and the Great Pyramid of Giza. The settlement was discovered in 1850 after a storm exposed its stone structures. Skara Brae consists of a cluster of small stone houses connected by passageways. Each home had built-in furniture such as beds, shelves, and a central hearth, giving a clear picture of daily life in the Neolithic period. It is often called the “best-preserved Neolithic village in Europe” and is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site.
90 minutes
Admission Included
Ring of Brodgar is a large prehistoric stone circle located on Orkney’s Mainland, dating to around 2500–2000 BCE. It originally consisted of about 60 standing stones arranged in a perfect circle, though around 30 remain today. The circle is set within a wide circular ditch (a henge), making it one of the most impressive ceremonial monuments in Britain. The exact purpose of the Ring of Brodgar is unknown, but it is believed to have been used for rituals or gatherings by Neolithic people. Its location—between the lochs of Stenness and Harray—adds to its dramatic setting. It is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often linked with nearby sites like the Stones of Stenness.
30 minutes
Stones of Stenness are one of the oldest stone circles in Britain, dating to around 3100 BCE. Originally made up of about 12 large standing stones set in a circular arrangement, only four stones remain today, along with a central hearth. The stones are tall, thin slabs of stone, giving the site a striking and dramatic appearance. The circle is surrounded by a ditch, suggesting it was an important ceremonial or ritual site for Neolithic people. Its exact purpose is unknown, but it was likely used for gatherings, religious practices, or community events. The Stones of Stenness are part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site and lie close to other famous sites such as the Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae, forming a rich prehistoric landscape.
30 minutes
Unstan Chambered Cairn (often called Unstan Tomb) is a Neolithic burial monument located on Orkney’s Mainland, dating to around 3200 BCE. It is a chambered cairn, meaning a stone-built tomb with a central passage leading to burial chambers. Inside, there are small side cells where human remains and grave goods were placed. The tomb is especially important because it gave its name to the “Unstan Ware” style of pottery—distinctive round-bottomed bowls decorated with simple patterns—found at the site. Unstan Cairn provides valuable insight into burial practices and beliefs of Neolithic communities in Orkney and is part of the wider prehistoric landscape that includes sites like the Skara Brae and Stones of Stenness.
30 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health -
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Specialized infant seats are available
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What our experts say
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Wear sturdy shoes for walking. -
Visit Yesnaby Cliffs at sunset.
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Try local seafood at nearby restaurants.
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Bring a camera for stunning views.
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Check weather for optimal experience.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Orkney is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty, and the Private Half Day Tour in Orkney is the perfect gateway to unlock its secrets. This immersive six-hour experience invites travelers to explore some of the most iconic sites on these enchanting islands. With a private guide leading the way, guests will visit extraordinary locations such as the Italian Chapel, Skara Brae, and the breathtaking Yesnaby Cliffs. The tour is designed to blend rich historical narratives with stunning landscapes, offering a unique perspective on Orkney's cultural heritage. Whether it's witnessing the resilience of the Italian Chapel, built by prisoners of war, or standing amidst the ancient stones of the Ring of Brodgar, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through time. With bottled water provided and all entry fees included, travelers can simply sit back, relax, and absorb the beauty and history that Orkney has to offer.What to expect?
On this tour, participants can expect a delightful mix of exploration, education, and breathtaking scenery. The journey begins with a visit to the Italian Chapel, a stunning example of creativity forged in adversity. From there, the tour takes travelers to the mesmerizing Yesnaby Cliffs, where rugged coastlines meet the roaring Atlantic Ocean, offering magnificent views that are perfect for photography enthusiasts. History buffs will be enthralled by Skara Brae, Europe's best-preserved Neolithic village, which dates back over 5,000 years. The tour continues to the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness, ancient sites that whisper the stories of those who walked the earth long before us. Each stop is curated to provide not just a glimpse of Orkney's past but also an understanding of its cultural significance. With an engaging driver guide, expect to leave with a deeper appreciation of this captivating region.Who is this for?
The Private Half Day Tour in Orkney caters to a diverse range of travelers, making it an ideal experience for anyone with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore. Whether you're a history enthusiast eager to learn about the Neolithic period or a nature lover wanting to soak in the stunning coastal views, this tour offers something for everyone. Families will find it an exciting way to introduce children to history and archaeology, while couples seeking a romantic getaway will appreciate the intimate setting of a private tour. Even solo travelers will feel welcomed and engaged in the shared experience of discovery. Importantly, those with moderate levels of physical fitness will find the tour accessible, as it involves manageable walks between sites. This tour is inclusive, inviting everyone to experience the magic of Orkney's rich tapestry of history and natural wonder.Why book this?
Booking the Private Half Day Tour in Orkney is an opportunity to delve into a world where ancient history meets breathtaking landscapes, all within a manageable timeframe. The unique selling points of this experience lie not only in the remarkable sites visited but also in the personal touch of a private guide who brings the stories to life. Unlike larger tours, this intimate setting allows for a more tailored experience, ensuring that every traveler’s questions are answered and interests are catered to. The inclusion of entry fees for key sites like the Italian Chapel and Skara Brae means that guests can immerse themselves fully without the worry of unexpected costs. Moreover, the breathtaking natural beauty of Orkney, paired with its rich historical context, creates a compelling narrative that resonates long after the tour has ended. For those seeking an enriching adventure, this tour is simply unmissable.Good to know
Before embarking on the Private Half Day Tour in Orkney, there are a few essential details to keep in mind. The tour begins at a convenient meeting point at either the Bus Station Stand 5 or the Cruise Terminal at Hatston Pier, ensuring easy access for anyone arriving by different modes of transport. Although the tour is designed to be accessible, it is not recommended for individuals with poor cardiovascular health or spinal injuries due to the walking involved. Travelers should possess at least a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the experience. Families with infants can be accommodated with specialized infant seats available upon request. Additionally, while refreshments are not included, bottled water is provided to keep everyone hydrated. With public transport options nearby, planning your visit is straightforward, allowing you to focus on enjoying the breathtaking sights of Orkney.Reviews
Feedback from individuals who have taken the Private Half Day Tour in Orkney highlights the unforgettable experiences they have had. Many travelers rave about the personalized attention they received from the guide, who not only shared fascinating stories but also offered insights that made each site come alive. Visitors often express their awe at the stunning landscapes, particularly the Yesnaby Cliffs, which left them breathless. The historical sites, especially Skara Brae, received high praise for their preservation and the detailed explanations provided. Guests appreciate the convenience of having all entry fees included, allowing them to focus solely on soaking in the beauty and history of Orkney. Overall, reviews reflect a deep satisfaction with the tour's balance of education, adventure, and stunning scenery, making it a highly recommended experience for anyone visiting this remarkable destination.
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