April 2012
What's happening in Orkney in November 2011
Although there are fewer festivals and events to attend during the long nights of November, Orkney islanders busy themselves with sporting clubs, music practise and drama rehearsals. We recommend visitors always check the pages of The Orcadian as there's always something going on. On the 5th November there are Bonfire Night celebrations, with the biggest bonfire located at the Peedie Sea in Kirkwall - keep an eye out for event details and timings.
During November, and leading to the Winter Solstice and beyond to late January, eyes around the world turn to one of Orkney's most ancient monuments - Maeshowe. A large prehistoric chambered cairn reached through a 
long low tunnel, Maeshowe was built in 2,700BC and makes up part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site (along with the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness).
For a few days each year, as the midwinter sun slips below the horizon, its last rays shine directly through Maeshowe's entrance passage to illuminate the rear wall of the central chamber. This is broadcast via webcam, but really must be seen first hand if you get a chance!
Other winter phenomenon which you may be fortunate enough to see first hand is the Northern Lights or the aurora borealis. Though only seen occasionally in the Northern Isles, cold crips nights between November and February are the best time to catch a fine display. Walks on winter nights can be very rewarding for this reason - watch as a curtain of green, red and purple lights dance across the night sky!
As for places to visit - we'd recommend a trip up to Evie in November. The most 
northerly parish on the West Mainland of Orkney, Evie has superb views of Orkney's North Isles and the tidal race between the mainland, the uninhabited island of Eynhallow and Rousay is particularly spectacular! Evie has one of Orkney's prettiest beaches at Aikerness, and for the kids, a good playground at Evie Community School.
The sound between Evie and the island of Rousay was once an important channel - and two brochs - one on Rousay and the Brough of Gurness in
Evie show that the area was heavily defended in the Iron Age. The Brough of Gurness is one of Orkney's finest archaeological treasures - similar to a castle keep with thick high walls, surrounded by dwellings. The quiet coast at Gurness is a good place for bird watching and seal spotting too!
Booking directly with NorthLink Ferries on www.northlinkferries.co.uk is cheaper than booking 
with another website and we never charge for any amendments made to your booking!
