8 Things To Do In The Orkney Islands When You Visit
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The Orkney Islands are a gem of a destination in Northern Scotland. This archipelago is made up of 70 islands which are linked by ferries and bridges. The largest of these islands is known as Mainland, where the capital Kirkwall is located. Orkney is stunningly beautiful and its unspoilt natural beauty makes it a perfect destination for everyone looking to get away from their busy lives. However, you can only say this once you have visited the islands. It’s not hard to see why many people fall in love with Orkney on their first visit there. There are so many places here that feel as if they’ve been lifted straight out of a fairytale book with medieval castles, quirky fishing villages, pristine beaches and lush green farmland dotted with quaint stone cottages and red-tiled farmhouses to explore.
A travel guide for Orkney does not need to be long.
A travel guide for Orkney does not need to be long. Orkney, Scotland’s most northerly archipelago and home to the famed standing stones of the Broch of Gurness, is a place that deserves to be explored in its entirety. The islands offer a variety of landscapes, from spectacular seascapes to rolling green hills and rugged cliffs. The capital, Kirkwall, is a charming port town with a labyrinth of cobbled streets, a thriving arts scene and a host of historical sites. The interiors of the islands are just as fascinating. Orkney does not have to be explored only in the summer months, although this is when it is most popular. Come between October and March, when the islands receive less than 60 millimetres of rain, and temperatures hover around 10 degrees Celsius.
The Orkney ferry is a great way to get around.
The best way to get around Orkney is by ferry. The ferries in Orkney are modern, well-equipped and frequent, meaning that getting around this stunning archipelago will be a doddle. There are plenty of ferry options available, so it’s best to check online to see which is the best for your needs. The ferries are a great way to see the islands from the water, and you can enjoy the views from the deck of several of the ferries. If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to see the islands, the ferry is the ticket. If you don’t want to walk around the islands, the ferry is the best way to get around. There’s no need to rush your visit to Orkney. Take your time to explore and enjoy the journey.
Don’t miss seeing the vernacular architecture in Orkney.
The Orkney Islands are home to many examples of vernacular architecture. This is a type of building that is constructed using locally sourced materials. Many of these buildings were constructed in the 18th and 19th centuries. They include single-storey cottages, small square farmhouses, and laird’s houses, which were designed for the Islands’ landowning aristocracy. These buildings are quaint and charming, and if you are a lover of history, you will adore exploring them. Orkney is also home to many Neolithic and Iron Age monuments. This includes standing stones and stone circles, such as the Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar. These are incredible to see and are some of the best examples of prehistoric architecture in the country. Be sure to explore these sites during your visit.
Take a hike across the rugged landscape of Orkney.
There are many hiking trails to choose from in Orkney, but if you want to see as much of the islands as possible, you should definitely go for the hike across the rugged landscape. You can also hike from one end of Orkney to the other, and this makes it one of the best things to do in here. One of the best hikes is around the Cuilags, and you can take a lovely circular walk here. Another great one is around the Brough of Birdsay circular walk. Here you can also see stunning natural and historical landmarks. Also, don’t forget to try some of the best Scottish salmon while you’re there. The Westray West Coast Walk is another particular favourite. Make sure to visit the Westray Heritage Centre during your hike, as this is a fascinating place to explore.
Be sure to explore the Orkney Museum while you are there.
The Orkney Museum is one of the oldest museums in Scotland, and it is located in Kirkwall, the capital of the Islands. This museum contains an array of exhibits, as well as including a collection of Pictish stones, Viking artefacts, pottery, coins and ancient Scottish artefacts. The exhibits are well-presented, and they are fascinating to explore. You can spend hours at the museum, and it’s an unmissable thing to do. The Orkney Museum is open all year round, and it’s free to enter. There is also an on-site gift shop where you can buy unique souvenirs, such as books and curios, related to the museum and its collection.
Check out these 8 awesome things to do in Orkney!
The Standing Stones of Stenness
The best place to start your visit to the Orkney Islands is at the Standing Stones of Stenness. These are one of the most well-known archaeological sites in Scotland and truly are a sight to behold. Be sure to explore the rest of the stones nearby, such as the Barnhouse and the Great Houses.
The Ring of Brodgar
Another incredible archaeological site in the Orkney Islands is the Ring of Brodgar. This is an ancient stone circle that was built around 2500 BC and is one of the most popular attractions in the islands.
Skara Brae
If you want to see what life was like in the Orkney Islands thousands of years ago, visit Skara Brae. This is a stunning Neolithic village that is one of the best preserved in the world.
The Orkney Museum
The Orkney Museum in Kirkwall is one of the oldest museums in Scotland and contains an array of fascinating artefacts and exhibits. This is one of the best museums in Orkney and is a must-see attraction.
The Maritime and Natural History Museum
The Maritime and Natural History Museum in Stromness is a great place to take the kids on a rainy day and will keep them entertained for hours. The museum contains an array of fascinating exhibitions that are sure to delight and amaze everyone who visits.
The Salmon Fisheries
Another one of the best ways to experience Orkney is by trying some of the local produce, such as the salmon. The Fisheries are open year round and are a great place to go for a fun day out with the family.
The North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory
The North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory is a great place to learn more about and see some of the local bird species that call Orkney home. This is a fantastic place to explore and a must-see site in on the island.
Don’t forget to taste the local Orkney cheeses!
The island of Orkney is known for its delicious cheeses, including the eponymous Orkney cheese. This is a rich and strongly flavoured cheese that is made from a blend of cow and sheep’s milk. It’s a delicious cheese that you need to try when you visit the islands. If you are a cheese lover, you need to visit Orkney. This island is known not just for having rich and flavoursome cheeses but also for having its own alcohol distillery which can be visited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Orkney is one of the most unique and beautiful places to visit in the UK. To visit and get a taste of its unique culture is an absolute treat and should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list. If you’re taking a trip to Scotland and want to get a bit of escapism, Orkney is an absolutely fantastic option.
Thank you so much for reading and I hope to see you back here again soon.
Ta-ta for now x
