Orkney Islands
· GB

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands, United Kingdom

The Orkney Islands, located off the northeast coast of Scotland in the United Kingdom, are a hidden gem waiting to be explored by curious travelers. This archipelago of around 70 islands boasts a unique blend of breathta…

#Island#Archaeology#Scenic Views#Historic Sites#Fishing
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Orkney Islands.

Top Hotels in Orkney Islands

Top Flights to Orkney Islands

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Orkney Islands.

Tours

Explore Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Visit Skara Brae, one of the best-preserved Neolithic settlements in Western Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Shopping

Shopping in Stromness

Discover local crafts and produce in the scenic town of Stromness.

Outdoor

Wildlife Watching at Marwick Head

Experience the diverse wildlife with a visit to Marwick Head, a seabird colony providing panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Orkney Islands.

Currency
£ | GBP | Pound Sterling
Population
The approximate estimated total population of the Orkney Islands is '22,000'.
Languages
English, English, Scots

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Orkney Islands.

What people love

Traveling to the Orkney Islands in Scotland can be a truly unique and rewarding experience. Here are some pros of visiting the Orkney Islands:

  1. Rich History: Orkney is home to a wealth of historical sites, including ancient Neolithic settlements such as Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and Maeshowe. These well-preserved sites offer a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

  2. Stunning Landscapes: The Orkney Islands are known for their rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and rolling green hills. The landscapes are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and photography.

  3. Wildlife: Orkney is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot various seabirds, seals, and even whales and dolphins. The islands are also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

  4. Local Culture: The Orkney Islands have a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on traditional music, crafts, and folklore. Visitors can explore local museums, galleries, and craft shops to learn more about Orkney's unique culture.

  5. Peaceful Atmosphere: The Orkney Islands offer a tranquil and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The slower pace of life, friendly locals, and stunning natural surroundings make it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Overall, visiting the Orkney Islands can provide a memorable and enriching travel experience for those seeking history, nature, and tranquility.

Enjoy your trip to the Orkney Islands!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Orkney Islands in Scotland include:

  1. Weather: The Orkney Islands experience unpredictable weather, with frequent rain and strong winds. Travelers should be prepared for changing weather conditions during their visit.

  2. Limited transportation options: Getting around the Orkney Islands may be challenging, especially if you are relying on public transportation. It's important to plan your travel arrangements in advance to avoid any difficulties.

  3. Limited dining and shopping options: Orkney Islands are remote and have a small population, which means that dining and shopping options may be limited compared to larger cities. Visitors should be prepared for a more limited selection of restaurants and shops.

  4. Seasonal tourism: Orkney Islands are a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. This can lead to crowded attractions and accommodations, so travelers should plan their trip accordingly to avoid peak tourist seasons.

  5. Limited nightlife: Orkney Islands are known for their peaceful and serene atmosphere, which may not appeal to travelers looking for a vibrant nightlife scene. Visitors seeking a more lively entertainment scene may be disappointed by the limited nightlife options on the islands.

Overall, while Orkney Islands offer stunning natural beauty and rich historical sites, travelers should be aware of these potential cons when planning their trip to the area.

The Orkney Islands, located off the northeastern coast of Scotland, have a rich and complex history that spans thousands of years. Here is a detailed account of their history, significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Prehistoric Period

  • Neolithic Era (c. 4000-2000 BCE): The Orkney Islands are renowned for their remarkable prehistoric sites, which give insight into early human settlement. The Heart of Neolithic Orkney is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes several key landmarks:
    • Skara Brae: A well-preserved Neolithic village, often considered one of the best-preserved groups of prehistoric houses in Western Europe.
    • Maeshowe: A large chambered tomb, famous for its impressive Stone Age architecture and later Norse runic inscriptions.
    • The Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness: These are two significant stone circles that likely served ceremonial purposes.

Bronze and Iron Ages

  • Bronze Age (c. 2000-800 BCE): The islands continued to be a hub of activity, with further development of farming and construction of burial cairns and stone circles.
  • Iron Age (c. 800 BCE-800 CE): The inhabitants constructed brochs, which are large, circular, drystone towers unique to Scotland. The Broch of Gurness is a notable example.

Norse Influence

  • Norse Settlement (c. 8th-15th centuries): The Vikings arrived in Orkney around the late 8th century. The islands became a significant Norse stronghold, with the Norse earls ruling Orkney and exerting influence over mainland Scotland and other regions.
  • Earl Rognvald Eysteinsson: One of the most famous Norse figures associated with Orkney, he is credited with the establishment of Norse rule in the islands.
  • St. Magnus Cathedral: Built in Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, it was founded in 1137 by the Norse Earl Rognvald in honor of his uncle, St. Magnus Erlendsson, a former Earl of Orkney who was martyred and later canonized.

Scottish Rule

  • Annexation by Scotland (1468-1472): Orkney, along with the Shetland Islands, was pledged to Scotland by King Christian I of Denmark as a dowry for his daughter Margaret's marriage to James III of Scotland. The islands officially became part of Scotland in 1472.

Modern Era

  • World Wars: During both World Wars, Orkney held strategic importance due to its location. Scapa Flow, a body of water in Orkney, served as a significant naval base. It was the site of the scuttling of the German fleet in 1919 after World War I.
  • Italian Chapel: Constructed by Italian prisoners of war during World War II, it is a unique and poignant historical site, built from Nissen huts and beautifully decorated.

Cultural and Historical Significance

  • Orkney has a vibrant cultural heritage, with a strong tradition of storytelling, music, and art. The islands host several festivals, including the renowned Orkney Folk Festival.
  • Archaeological Significance: The ongoing excavations, such as those at the Ness of Brodgar, continue to provide valuable insights into prehistoric life in Orkney.

Important Landmarks

  • Kirkwall: The main town of Orkney, home to St. Magnus Cathedral, the Orkney Museum, and the historic Bishop's and Earl's Palaces.
  • Hoy: Known for its dramatic landscapes, including the famous sea stack, the Old Man of Hoy.

The Orkney Islands have a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history, making them a fascinating destination for those interested in archaeology, history, and culture.