Top Things to do in Orkney Islands
What to do and see in Orkney Islands, Scotland: The Best Things to do
Discover the best top things to do in Orkney Islands, United Kingdom including Skara Brae, Orkney Ferries, Scapa Flow, The Brough of Birsay, Highland Park Distillery, The Orkney Museum, Saint Magnus Cathedral, Eday Island, Betty's Reading Room, Churchill Barriers.
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. Orkney Ferries
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
3. 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.
4. The Brough of Birsay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7 reviews
Reviewed By 337karlf - Brighouse, United Kingdom
All about timing, getting too the brough, cross the causeway and go before you see the lighthouse and puffins. Fantastic and well worth it
5. Highland Park Distillery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 552 reviews
Home of our award-winning single malt Scotch whisky, made in a traditional way by modern-day Vikings. Explore the stories behind our 18th century distillery in Kirkwall, founded by Magnus Eunson - a direct descendant of the Vikings who first made their home on Orkney over 1,000 years ago. We offer 4 different tours to cater for every interest and every budget - from a short visit to our working distillery with a dram or two in our visitor centre to an in-depth exploration of our whisky's birthplace and the opportunity to taste some of our finest, aged expressions. Advanced booking is required.
Reviewed By 178angusf
For those who like whisky, or are least interested in places with some history, or just enjoy learning about how things are produced, this is a great place to visit. There is a nice visitor centre, and several different types of tours available. The basic tour takes about an hour, and goes through each part of the distillery, including a short film and a wee tasting afterwards. An easy walk from the waterfront of Kirkwall - if you are in Kirkwall, don't miss this.
6. The Orkney Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 600 reviews
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, access is currently limited to the Baikie Library and Drawing Room and our temporary exhibition 'Between Islands'. Visitor numbers are limited, so please be prepared to wait outside if the museum is busy. Please note that it is mandatory to wear a face covering in the building and that you will be asked for your contact details for the national Test and Protect system.
Reviewed By jacquim883
This museum summarises Orkney's past, starting from Neolithic times and going into the twentieth century. Housed in an old building, the display is well set out and you wind through the rooms where Orkney's fascinating history is depicted in chronological order. It makes you appreciate how different Orkney is from the rest of Scotland and why the Orcadians are so proud of their identity.
7. Saint Magnus Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,856 reviews
St Magnus Cathedral, built from red and yellow sandstone, is of international significance. This ‘fine minster’ took about 300 years to build, the foundations starting in 1137. It was dedicated to Magnus Erlendsson, Earl of Orkney. He shared the earldom with his cousin, Haakon Paulsson, but jealousy and greed culminated in Magnus being martyred on the island of Egilsay. Access is currently restricted so please be prepared to wait outside if it is busy and to limit your visit to 15 minutes max. We ask visitors to adhere to hygiene and physical distancing advice. It is mandatory to wear a face covering whilst in the building and we will ask for your contact details for the national Test and Protect system. There are no public toilet facilities available.
Reviewed By redeco - Warren, United States
Dedicated to St. Magnus, Earl of Orkney and patron saint of the Orkney Isles, the magnificent red sandstone cathedral was begun in 1137 and took roughly 300 years to complete. The church is dark and atmospheric with marvelous carvings including a stunning blind arcade with profuse carvings. Multiple tombs including St. Magnus' tomb are inside the cathedral. The church is Romanesque in style This important Medieval Cathedral is well worth a visit. Free admission; donations accepted. If you have the time, there is a charming churchyard with lots of ancient gravestones to see. Enjoy.
