With green rolling fields bordered by huge seascapes, Orkney has an incredible allure and huge range of attractions. Visitors can enjoy extraordinary remains of villages, stone circles and tombs and the sunken fleet at Scapa Flow – there is over 5,000 years of human history to uncover here.
Orkney’s striking sea cliffs are home to thousands of birds, whilst seals, whales, and dolphins are frequently spotted in the clear waters surrounding the isles. There are tranquil beaches to stroll along, unique shops to visit and award-winning food and drink to sample.
With a packed diary of festivals and shows, island-hopping, and traditional music, there is always something special going on in the Orkney Islands for you to discover.
Ancient history and heritage
Stunning scenery and wildlife
Festivals and shows
The Orkney Islands are home to one of Europe’s highest densities of ancient ruins, with an average of three archaeological sites per square mile, Orkney makes for an essential visit for history lovers. There are other stories to tell though – of an agricultural island with amazing food and drink, wildlife in spades, toe-tapping traditional music and a proud heritage which harks back to a time when Orkney was part of Scandinavia.
Orkney has a range of accommodation including self-catering cottages, campsites and cosy local hotels to choose from. Across 20 inhabited islands, it’s easy to find the best local cuisine, including hand-crafted gin, fresh meat, cheeses to savour, and delicious baked goods. Explore these enchanting islands on foot, by bike or rent a car for a leisurely spot of sight-seeing. Tour guides are available also, and for the most adventurous, dive boat charters; to explore the wartime wrecks of Scapa Flow.
To fully appreciate the character and charm of Orkney, take time to visit its many islands and areas. With fabulous sites of interest, wide skies, wonderful views, dramatic scenery and varied wildlife, choosing where to visit can be a dilemma. The answer is to choose a few, take time to stop a while and schedule other places for subsequent trips!
NorthLink Ferries are proud to provide a lifeline ferry service to Orkney. Find out more about the scenic sailings from Scrabster to Stromness and from Aberdeen to Kirkwall.
Header image: Ring of Brodgar in dramatic evening light and cloudscape photo © Copyright David Woods
