Top Things to do in Orkney Islands
The 10 Best Things to do Good for Kids in Orkney Islands, Scotland
Discover the best top things to do in Orkney Islands, United Kingdom including Skara Brae, Westray Island, Mull Head Nature Reserve, Barony Mill, Kirbuster Museum, Ness of Brodgar, Midhowe Chambered Cairn, Cuween Hill Chambered Cairn, Longhope Lifeboat Museum, Scapa Flow.
Restaurants in Orkney Islands
1. Skara Brae
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2,073 reviews
The Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae, near the dramatic white beach of the Bay of Skaill, is one of the best preserved groups of prehistoric houses in Western Europe. Uncovered by a storm in 1850, the attraction presents a remarkable picture of life around 5,000 years ago. Visitors can experience a prehistoric village and see ancient homes fitted with stone beds, dressers and seats. A replica construction allows visitors to fully understand the interior of a prehistoric house.
Reviewed By 777juliea - Winchester, United Kingdom
This fascinating historic site was on our bucket list for years, and now we have managed to visit twice. On both occasions we were on a guided tour, and the tour guide was full of interesting information. Who could imagine that these relatively advanced houses actually predated Stonehenge? The cluster of houses is close to the sea, with a magnificent sweep of a bay just beyond so visiting the site is itself a memorable experience. Some of the dwellings still retain their stone fittings. There is also a replica dwelling close by which visitors can enter.
2. Westray Island
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 37 reviews
Reviewed By ScotlandE_mc
We came on the noon boat from Kirkwall to have a short visit and we wish we came for a few days or at least with the early morning boat so we could spend some more time about the isle. Quite a few gems to see, the Castle, Noup head Light house,the peedie airport that has the shortest flight in the world to Papa westray,the beaches with the seals,and the cliffs with puffins,the lovely local heritage center is a must as well,its a marvelous place!
3. Mull Head Nature Reserve
4. Barony Mill
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 112 reviews
HOORAY! We'll be open again to visitors on May 31st 2021. Please phone the mill to book. Tours are at 11, 11.45, 12.30, 1.15, 2.00, 3.15 and 4pm. Numbers are limited. Barony Mill is Orkney's last remaining water mill, grinding the ancient grain bere. Milling is done in winter and in summer we are open to visitors. You can have a guided tour by the miller or a volunteer guide. Feel the building shake and shudder when the water is turned on! Afterwards buy some beremeal or oatmeal at the mill and try the recipes in our book for yourself. Entry is £3.50 for adults (free for children) but we still welcome donations which help keep the mill going. We look forward to meeting you!
5. Kirbuster Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 90 reviews
Kirbuster Museum is the last un-restored example of a traditional ‘firehoose’ in Northern Europe. The house has a central hearth, complete with peat fire, and a stone neuk bed reminiscent of the Neolithic interiors that can be seen at sites such as Skara Brae, and demonstrates how little some aspects of domestic life changed in Orkney over many centuries. The house also has an Edwardian parlour and Victorian Gardens and visitors can enjoy a game of putting on the green and explore the Trowie Trail in the back garden. Kirbuster is a unique survivor which gives a fascinating insight into four centuries of family life in Orkney. An excellent place to visit if you are researching your Orkney ancestry. FREE ADMISSION. Access is currently restricted so please be prepared to wait if the site is busy, and to adhere to the safety advice on hygiene and physical distancing. It is mandatory to wear a face covering in the building and you will be asked for your contact details for Test & Protect.
6. Ness of Brodgar
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 343 reviews
Reviewed By BDenz - Campbell River, Canada
Each year, the archaeologists who work this site open greater insight into the peoples who lived between Maeshowe, Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar. And with each new find, the history of the era marks this area as the first of its kind in Great Britain. Take that, Stonehenge.
7. Midhowe Chambered Cairn
8. Cuween Hill Chambered Cairn
9. Longhope Lifeboat Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 32 reviews
Reviewed By JamesandLizM - Invergordon, United Kingdom
Excellent museum full of the history of the Lifeboat in Longhope and the crews who risked and gave their lives. There is someone to show you around too. Well worth a visit.
10. Scapa Flow
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 386 reviews
This treacherous pass made ship navigation difficult, resulting in over 10 sunken ship wrecks, providing an excellent dive site.
Reviewed By Dannykimweed - Kingston-upon-Hull, United Kingdom
This is an amazing place steeped in history, some of which is tragic from during the first and second world wars. This is a significant place for families who have lost loved ones here and is a pilgrimage for some. As a natural harbour it is a spectacular place and you get tremendous views of it from many roads. You cannot miss it and its significance to British Naval history.
