Unearth Orkney's unique history, wildlife, islands, activities and culture by taking time to browse our Orkney blogs.
In Kirkwall, next to St Magnus Cathedral, there are two magnificent buildings; the Bishop’s Palace and the Earl’s Palace. Find out ten facts about these fascinating buildings including tales of Viking sagas and ruthless rulers!
Due to its star-like shape, Stronsay has a very long coastline. On nearly every side, this Orkney island is surrounded by bays with long white-sand beaches. Find out about the herring industry, the Vat of Kirbuster and the Stronsay Beast.
Marwick in the West Mainland of Orkney is a great place to visit. Find out about the tidal lagoon in Marwick Bay, enjoy a walk to the fishermen’s huts at Sand Geo and learn about the history of HMS Hampshire and Marwick Head.
Honesty boxes are left filled with treats such as baking or home-grown produce. In exchange for an item within the unattended box, you deposit some cash. These Orkney honesty boxes are well worth visiting.
The dialect of Orkney and Shetland has been influenced by the islands’ Scandinavian past and Norn was the most commonly used language. Today, Scots is spoken but some words are still influenced by Norn. Do you know what Birl, Puggie and Plitter mean?
The Orkney and Shetland islands are places where you can spot comical, colourful puffins in the summer. This bird is called a Tammy Norrie in the Northern Isles. We hope you will enjoy these 10 facts about puffins!
Patricia Long, a tour guide from About Orkney, takes an insightful look at St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, the faces around the tower and the medieval gravestones. Founded in 1137, St Magnus Cathedral is one of the oldest cathedrals in Scotland.
Bread and butter puddings are a traditional British dessert, and MV Hamnavoe chef George O’Neill has made a delicious Orkney-inspired version which uses a dash of Highland Park whisky!
The Loch of Harray is Orkney’s largest loch and is filled with Brown Trout, while the Loch of Stenness is partly salty as it is connected to the sea. Around these lochs are some impressive archaeological sites!
