Could Do List – Orkney in July 2026

In the summer, the Orkney Islands are a fantastic place to be. You’ll enjoy brighter and longer days, stunning nature, dramatic seascapes and plenty of fresh air! Here are some suggestions for what you could do in July.

If you enjoy Bluegrass, Americana and roots music the Water Sound Bluegrass & Roots Festival, a three-day celebration from the 3-5^th of July in Burray, Orkney hosts live acts, community spirit, camping, great food and a warm welcome.

Get a taste of Orkney this summer with Orkney Food & Drink‘s new Market Days in the centre of Kirkwall. Head along to the Broad Street Car Park for a fantastic market day celebrating the very best of Orkney produce on the 4^th July from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Data gathered from Ground Penetrating Radar investigations carried out in 2025 at the Ness of Brodgar revealed several anomalies below the surface of the Ness. Archaeologists have described it as an ‘exciting discovery’ and, thanks to funding from Time Team, a small team will be back on site this summer to investigate the features. The site will be open to open to visitors, on weekdays, between Tuesday, July 7, and Thursday, July 30, 2026. Site tours are planned during this period, keep an eye on the website for more information.

If you fancy getting a unique view of Orkney from the comfort of a dry suit whilst helping record local marine wildlife and learning about ocean conservation then the Stromness Snorkel Safari with Kraken Diving and the Stromness Museum on the 25^th of July is worth checking out. See more information here.

Stromness Shopping Week is a week of family-friendly activities in the lovely picturesque town. The programme of the events includes daft raft races, sandcastle competitions, music and live entertainment. Stromness Shopping Week 2026 takes place from Wednesday 22nd to Saturday 25th July 2026.

July is a great time to watch puffins at the Brough of Birsay or the Castle o’ Burrian in Westray. Mass hatching occurs across colonies from late May through the first or second week of July. From mid-July to August, you may spot pufflings emerging close to their nesting holes preparing for flight.

These are just a few of the things to enjoy in Orkney throughout the month of July. We hope whatever you do you have a fantastic time exploring the islands this Summer.

By Victoria Dixon Orkney and Shetland fanatic, likes to capture life through a lens, loves creating, eclectic taste in music, enjoys being a Mum; would secretly love to be a star of the West End!

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