The Orkneys
Discover the nomadic past of Orkney, an isle of ancient relics and ruins. Dive into the Scapa Flow to investigate the sunken remains of a German High Sea Fleet, learn of Orkney’s past at Stromness Museum or explore Viking settlements at Maeshowe. The striking Neolithic henge known as the Ring of Brodgar can be found between the Lochs of Stenness and Harray. This forms part of The Heart of Neolithic Orkney; a UNESCO World Heritage Site including tombs and ancient dwellings.

Orkney, located at the north-east tip of Scotland, is made up of 70 rural islands and the capital is Kirkwall. Boats offer transportation for most of the low lying regions and idyllic causeways connect Burray and South Ronaldsay. The island of Hoy is set apart from the rest with dramatic cliff tops and sweeping valleys making for the finest photo opportunities. Smaller islands, known locally as ‘skerries’, are populated only by marine and bird life. Cycling and walking are enjoyable ways to roam around these areas. Meet the locals by renting an Orkney holiday cottage in one of the villages; there is also a good selection of seaside and rustic houses on the Orkneys to choose from so start your adventure today.

Farming is Orkney’s main industry producing renowned quality beef and crab meat. Be sure to sample a dish in one of the restaurants and taverns or pick up freshly caught herring by the harbour. Tourism has played a key role in developing a thriving trade in the arts and crafts; pick up a piece of handmade jewellery to take home as a gift.

Book a scheduled flight from Inverness, Edinburgh or Gatwick. Smaller charter flights between Orkney Mainland and the islands of Westray and South Ronaldsay run seasonally, but small fishing vessels make for a pleasant trip between the islands. Choose from four ferry services connecting the Orkney Islands to mainland Scotland, ideal if you want to take your car. Ferry sailing times can vary for each crossing. NorthLink Ferries serve the Mainland town of Kirkwall from Aberdeen (6 hours). Stromness can be reached from Scrabster (90 minutes). Take the ferry from Gill’s Bay to the harbour at St Margaret’s Hope with Pentland Ferries (2.5 hours) for a particularly scenic coastal route. A daily inter-island ferry service is available with Orkney Ferries and is a great choice for island hopping.

The sea has a large influence over Orkney’s climate so pack waterproof clothing at all times! Join in on the festivities at the annual Folk Festival and Country Show. Plan your self-catering holiday in Orkney during the summer months to take advantage of the brightest weather, although whenever you decide to travel, you are guaranteed a warm welcome from the people of Orkney.