April 2012
What's happening in Orkney in September 2011
Even though the summer is almost over, there are still plenty of festivals to attend and things to do in Orkney during the month of September.
The first event of note is the Orkney International Science Festival, which is in it's 20th year. Melding Orkney's environment, history, skies and culture with scientific insights makes the festival really a unique event. World class speakers visit, and there are science talks, demonstrations, bus tours, ceilidhs and workshops for adults and children alike. The Orkney International Science Festival takes place from 1st - 7th September 2011 and will cover astronomy (including a trip to North Ronaldsay), stone circles, black holes, quantum theory, and the latest developments in renewable wave and tidal energy. To find out more, please visit http://www.oisf.org
The second event for September is the Orkney Blues Festival, which runs from 23rd to 25th September and brings together local and national artists. Most events take place in Stromness, but there are gigs outwith the town - notably the Standing Stones Hotel in Stenness and at the Gable End Theatre on the island of Hoy. This years Blue Festival will include the following musicians - Chantelle McGregor, Lucy Zirins, The Paddy Macguire Band and Rhythm Zoo. All events are free of charge, with the exception of the Grand Finale (will host all of the Headlining Acts) on Sunday 25th September at The Stromness Hotel. For more information, please visit http://www.orkneyblues.co.uk/
The third event for Orkney in September is equally as spectacular (and hazardous to eardrums) and is a must see! The Orkney Motocross club host their beach race weekend on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th September. On the Saturday, the Heddle Hill course in Finstown, with it's steep hills, sharp turns and death-defying drops, will be tackled at 11am. Take your camera along to capture the sight of flying motorbikes! On Sunday, the location is the Bu Sands, a stunning beach in Burray. The first race begins at 11am and the main race at 2pm and is a superb sight to see - with over 100 motorbikes starting the race. Visit http://www.orkneymotocross.co.uk/ for more information.
Our final suggestion for things to do in September is equally as spectacular, though slightly less noisy. As the autumn begins in Orkney, the winds blow a little stronger, and a walk to Skipi Geo in Birsay is essential. At this north west point of the island there is the Brough of Birsay, an uninhabited island which can be reached by causeway when the tide is low. However, a short walk from the car park along the low lying coast will take you to the mysterious whalebone at Skipi Geo. Spectacular waves can be seen here!
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!
