Located off the Northeast coast of mainland Scotland, Orkney is an archipelago of 70 islands, 20 of which are inhabited. It’s a place so rich in history, people and natural beauty. It’s quite incredible how much brilliance is packed into one place. From neolithic sites and dramatic coastlines, to quirky eateries and creative hubs, Orkney really does have it all. Our Orkney Scotland guide will cover where to visit, stay and eat in Orkney. Plus transport options and our experience at Orkney’s 33rd International Science Festival.
Please note this blog is part of a paid partnership with VisitScotland and High Life Highland as part of the Spirit of the Highlands & Islands project.
What to do:
Explore Mull Head
The wildlife walk at Mull Head with Wild Orkney Walks is a fantastic way to enjoy the Deerness nature reserve. Megan is so knowledgable when it comes to seabirds, wildflowers and insects that there is so much you would easily miss without her guidance. We were able to spot many birds including Gannets, Fulmers and Rock Doves. The views along the cliffs are truly breathtaking and awe-inspiring.
Visit Sanday
From Kirkwall you can take a direct ferry to Orkney’s beautiful island of Sanday with Orkney Ferries. The crossing is a pleasant journey of 1.5 hours, passing more of Orkney’s islands along the way.
The island is true to it’s name and is fringed with stunning beaches and coastline. Sanday is also home to some of the most magnificent archaeological sites in Orkney, as well as incredible wildlife spotting opportunities throughout the island. What we instantly loved about Sanday was the warm people and real sense of community on the island. Every person we passed on the island, whether on car, foot or bike, would give us a wee wave. It was lovely to see that all of the businesses on the island really support each other and that can be said of Orkney mainland too.
We’d recommend hiring e-bikes from The Sanday Community Shop. It’s such a great and fun way to explore the island and allows you to get to places you can’t in the car. The assist from the e-bikes is highly welcomed when it’s windy. Stop at the Sanday Heritage Centre to learn about the islands history and to visit a restored croft house. Pop by the Sanday Community Craft Hub for a lovely warm bowl of soup and check out the wonderful crafts made by the islands talented residents. We’d also recommend checking out some of Sanday’s stunning beaches including Whitemill Bay, Lopness Bay, the dunes at Tresness and Sty Wick Bay.
No trip to Sanday would be complete without a trip to the amazing 59 Degrees North Pizzeria. You’d easily mistake 59 Degrees North for somewhere in a big city. It’s cool, quirky and the wood fired pizza is heavenly. 59 Degrees North is also home to Sanday’s first motorhome Aire providing pitches with electric hook ups.
On your way for pizza be sure to stop in at The Sound of the Sea Studio, a ceramics studio by Kirstie Bruce. Kirstie’s work is beautiful. It’s inspired by the local landscape and colours, and often incorporates elements found locally.
Tour the Highland Park Whisky Distillery
Book a tour to explore the whisky distillery of the legendary Highland Park. We experienced the Norse Legends Tour which includes a tour of the distillery with an expert guide, followed by an exclusive tasting of their Valhalla collection in the beautiful Magnus Eunson Room. We loved the tasting experience and hearing the stories behind each of the whiskies.
Visit Skara Brae
No trip to Orkney would be complete with a trip to the iconic Skara Brae. Located on the bay of Skaill, Skara Brae is an incredible stone-built neolithic village. Older than the likes of Stonehenge and the Egyptian Pyramids at over 5000 years old, Skara Brae is truly incredible and is also one of the best preserved neolithic settlements in Europe.
Explore Kirkwall and Stromness
Filled with beautiful architecture, stores and eateries, both towns of Kirkwall and Stromness are charming places to wander and spend some time. See more of our recommendations from here later on in the guide.
Visit st magnus cathedral
The stunning St Magnus Cathderal in Kirkwall is truly a sight to behold. The cathedral was founded in 1137 by the Viking, Earl Rognvald, in honour of his uncle St Magnus. We were fortunate enough to visit during Orkney’s 33rd International Science Festival. The incredible sun art installation seen below is in celebration of this.
more must visits
We’d also recommend visiting the historical sights… The Ring of Brodgar and the Italian Chapel. As well as beauty spots Scapa Beach and the Yesnaby Cliffs.
Where to eat:
59 Degrees North
As we previously mentioned, 59 Degrees North is not to be missed when visiting the Orkney islands and this gem can be found on the Isle of Sanday. We had the mozzarella sticks to start, followed by Hot Honey Pizza and The Zola Pizza from their monthly specials. All delicious! The pizzeria is also dog friendly and they even have a dog menu!
Helgi's
Helgi’s is a cosy, traditional pub located in Kirkwall with lovely views overlooking the harbour. We were so impressed with the food, especially the Thai Chicken Bites to start – wow! The Orkney Mule is also delicious and everything is so beautifully presented.
Twenty One
Another cool spot in Orkney, is Twenty One in Kirkwall. Not only are the interiors sleek and stylish but the food is fantastic. We highly recommend the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich and the coffee which is amazing too.
Adam's Place
Situated ideally in Stromness Harbour, Adam’s Place is a lovely restaurant for lunch or dinner. Here you can sample some of Orkney’s finest produce and with a great varied menu there’s something for everyone.
The Storehouse
The Storehouse Restaurant is located in Kirkwall and is styled so beautifully inside with nods to the building’s former history as a print works. We are still dreaming of our Confit Duck Bon Bons starter. The Storehouse is also a boutique hotel offering various unique rooms inspired by Orkney and its history.
Archive Coffee
Located in Kirkwall, Archive Coffee is a warm and inviting environment which serves Glasgow’s Dear Green coffee (a favourite of ours). They also serve food and a wide selection of cakes and bakes.
Where to stay:
Kilnbarn Cottage
Kilnbarn Cottage by Orkney Retreats is a stunning cottage right be the sea in Sanday. We really can’t explain just how magical this place is. The interiors look straight out of a magazine with impeccable styling and design. Every inch of the cottage has been considered to feel snug and inviting in Danish “Hygge” style. From fluffy bedding and robes, to hot water bottles and hot chocolate, this really is the cosiest retreat. It’s safe to say you will not want to leave!
The living room has such magic, especially when the tide is in and it feels as though you could touch the water from the huge picture window. A lovely window seat has been perfectly place to enjoy the view and the bio fuel fire adds another element of ‘coorie’ to this spectacular space.
Outside you’ll find a picnic bench and fire pit. There’s even an outdoor bath coming soon.
Orkney Lux Lodges
Orkney Lux Lodges are located in the heart of Stromness with incredible views not only of the harbour, but of the dramatic neighbouring island of Hoy.
We stayed in their Hoy Spa Lodge. Inside is a cleverly compact space which is incredibly stylish and cosy. Featuring a well-equiped kitchenette, separate bathroom and fluffy robes, it has everything you need. We love how secluded you feel here in your own little bubble.
Outside the amazing spa deck features a hot tub, stargazing deck chairs and facilities for alfresco dining. Where better to enjoy the starry sky than right here.
The Merkister Hotel
The Merkister is a very welcoming hotel located on the shores of Harray Loch. The hotel has 16 rooms which are spacious and many have beautiful loch views. Their inhouse restaurant, The Skerries, provides a real taste of Orkney and the staff are fantastic.
Further Info
Ferry to Orkney
The NorthLink ferry from Scrabster to Stromness on mainland Orkney takes an hour and a half. It’s a very scenic journey which passes Orkney’s Isle of Hoy. Look out for the iconic Old Man of Hoy when passing.
Orkney's International Science Festival
We were fortunate enough to visit Orkney during their annual International Science Festival and attend a few special events.
We took part in an art and wellbeing workshop on the beautiful Scapa Beach held by artist Lin Chau and horticulturist Elizabeth Woodcock. The workshop created the space for people to switch off and engage with their surroundings with art. We loved getting involved and could have sat here sketching all day listening to the waves.
The Ness of Brodgar is one of the most important archaeological excavations in the world today. Situated on the stunning Brodgar peninsula with 3 hectares of neolithic archeological structures. The area is also home to other remarkable sites such as the Lochview Standing Stone and the Ring of Brodgar. We were extremely fortunate to be part of a tour with the site director Nick Card.
Nick’s passion for the site had us hooked on every word and and we were fascinated by the findings. Next summer will be the last of the excavations here, so be sure to book this in advance.
We were lucky enough to see the Driftwood Cowboys perform at the Orkney Social Club. The band’s sound is a unique blend of musical genres ranging from western swing, folk and blues to traditional Scottish and Orcadian. Not only are they all so talented, but also hilarious and extremely entertaining. If you get the opportunity to see them live, you will not be disappointed.
We hope you have enjoyed our Orkney Scotland guide. For more Scotland trip ideas, click here.
Please note this blog is part of a paid partnership with VisitScotland and High Life Highland as part of the Spirit of the Highlands & Islands project.
Want to save this to Pinterest?
hover over the image below to save it
