Unearth Orkney's unique history, wildlife, islands, activities and culture by taking time to browse our Orkney blogs.
The culture, landscape and history of Orkney are a source of inspiration for writers. If you’re looking for holiday reading then we’ve picked 12 books that are essential guides to the islands. Not only that; they make very fine and entertaining reads!
Photographer Charles Tait is the author of acclaimed guide books and his photographs have illustrated tourism brochures and postcards for many years. We asked Charles to share his story along with some tips for budding photographers!
The Orkney Brewery Visitor Centre is an easy destination to recommend to visitors exploring Orkney. Located in a former Victorian schoolhouse; the Orkney Brewery offers informative tours, mouth-watering local food, a warm welcome and spectacular beer.
Skaill House Falconry is situated in the West Mainland of Orkney next to Skara Brae. The business is run by Keith Austen along with his wife and son. Together they offer a brilliant and personal falconry experience for visitors and Orcadians alike.
The landscape of the Orkney Islands is fantastic to explore by bicycle. Better yet, bikes travel free of charge on NorthLink ferries! We asked Sean Chalmers, NorthLink’s resident cycling expert about six of his favourite Orkney routes for keen cyclists!
Make approximately 10 fat slices of this moreish Yuletide Rocky Road Log as a sweet treat or homemade gift. Our fail-safe recipe comes from George o’Neill, Sous Chef on MV Hamnavoe. This amazing chocolate delight doesn’t take long to make!
The North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory is located on an island famed for spotting rare migrating birds. Alison Duncan, the North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory warden, told us about the fascinating work they do.
We’d always recommend visiting Orkney for a few days to get a full flavour of the isles. However, if one or two days in Orkney is all you have, here are the essential sites we’d recommend you visit during that time!
An Orkney Chair is wooden, handcrafted and has a straw back. Master craftsman Robert H. Towers has been making Orkney Chairs for over 38 years and explains the history and process of making them.
