15 Reasons to Visit Orkney, Scotland

Orkney, a stunning archipelago off Scotland’s northern coast, is a place of breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and a culture all its own. With its rich Viking heritage, spectacular coastal scenery, and world-class wildlife, Orkney is a must-visit destination for travellers looking for something truly unique. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or whisky connoisseur, Orkney offers an unforgettable experience. Here’s why you should add it to your travel bucket list. 

1. A Unique Orcadian Identity

Orkney has a strong and unique sense of identity. In fact, Orcadians often consider themselves Orcadian first, rather than Scottish or British. The islands were part of Norway for over 500 years until they were annexed by Scotland in 1468. To this day, Orkney maintains deep cultural and historical ties to Scandinavia. The islands are geographically closer to Norway than they are to London, and every year, Norway gifts Orkney a Christmas tree—a nod to their enduring bond. 

Viking influence is still strong in Orkney. Names like Magnus, Thorfinn, and Rognvald remain common, while historic sites such as Maeshowe (which contains the largest collection of Norse runic inscriptions outside of Scandinavia) and the Norse-built St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall showcase Orkney’s deep-rooted Norse past. 

2. The Heart of Neolithic Orkney – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Orkney is home to one of Europe’s most significant prehistoric landscapes, designated as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include: 

• Skara Brae – A remarkably well-preserved Neolithic village, older than the pyramids of Egypt. 

• The Ring of Brodgar – A massive stone circle that rivals Stonehenge in mystery and grandeur. 

• The Standing Stones of Stenness – Some of the oldest and tallest standing stones in Britain. 

• Maeshowe Chambered Cairn – A Neolithic tomb featuring fascinating Viking graffiti. 

3. Breathtaking Coastal Scenery & Natural Wonders

From sheer sea cliffs to golden beaches, Orkney’s coastline is one of the most stunning in the UK. Must-see natural wonders include: 

• The Old Man of Hoy – A 137-metre sea stack, a favourite among hikers and photographers. 

• St John’s Head – The highest vertical sea cliffs in the UK. 

• Yesnaby Sea Stacks – Dramatic rock formations shaped by the relentless North Atlantic. 

• Rackwick Bay – A secluded sandy beach on the island of Hoy, perfect for nature lovers. 

4. A Haven for Wildlife Enthusiasts

Orkney is one of the best places in Scotland for wildlife spotting. You can see: 

• Puffins (April–August) nesting along the cliffs of Marwick Head and the Brough of Birsay. 

• Seals basking on the shores of South Ronaldsay and the Churchill Barriers. 

• Otters playing along Orkney’s lochs and shorelines. 

• Orca, minke whales, and dolphins, often seen around Scapa Flow and the Pentland Firth. 

While puffin sightings can’t be guaranteed, our guides know the best spots and seasons for maximising your chances of seeing these charming birds. 

5. A Legacy of Viking History

Orkney’s Viking heritage is still very much alive. Key Viking-era sites include: 

• St Magnus Cathedral – Built in 1137 by Norse Earl Rognvald in honour of his uncle, St Magnus. 

• Earl’s Palace & Bishop’s Palace – Ruins that reveal Orkney’s role in medieval Norse politics. 

• Orkney Museum – A treasure trove of Viking artefacts and historical insights. 

6. World War History & The Churchill Barriers

During both World Wars, Orkney played a crucial role in naval defence. Scapa Flow was one of the world’s most important naval bases, and visitors can explore: 

• The Churchill Barriers – Causeways built during WWII to protect the British fleet. 

• The Italian Chapel – A stunning chapel built by Italian prisoners of war using limited materials. 

• Scuttled German warships – Now a world-famous diving site for exploring sunken history. 

7. Vibrant Orcadian Festivals & Traditions

Orkney’s traditions date back centuries, offering visitors a taste of true island culture. Some of the most iconic festivals include: 

• The Ba’ Game (Christmas & New Year) – A riotous street football match in Kirkwall. 

• St Magnus Day Celebrations (April) – Honouring Orkney’s patron saint. 

• Stromness Shopping Week (July) – A lively summer festival with parades and music. 

• The Orkney Folk Festival (May) – One of Scotland’s best traditional music festivals. 

• The St Magnus International Festival (June) – A world-class arts festival celebrating theatre, music, and literature. 

8. Distinctive Orkney Whisky

Whisky lovers will appreciate Orkney’s renowned distilleries: 

• Highland Park Distillery – One of the most awarded single malt whiskies in the world. 

• Scapa Distillery – Producing smooth, honeyed whisky with a maritime influence. 

9. The Northern Lights & Dark Skies

Orkney is one of the best places in Scotland to see the Aurora Borealis. From autumn to spring, the dark skies come alive with this mesmerising natural phenomenon. 

10. Traditional Orcadian Cuisine

Orkney’s food scene is filled with locally sourced delights, including: 

• Orkney beef & lamb – Renowned for their rich flavour. 

• Orkney cheese & ice cream – Produced using fresh island dairy. 

• Hand-dived scallops & crab – Among the freshest seafood in Scotland. 

• Beremeal bannocks – A traditional bread made from ancient Orkney grain. 

Explore Orkney on a Guided Tour 

Discovering Orkney with an expert guide transforms your journey into something truly unforgettable. Our scheduled group tours and bespoke private experiences departing from Edinburgh and Inverness take you beyond the guidebooks—exploring iconic sites while uncovering hidden gems at your own pace. 

If you’re looking for a ready-to-go adventure, we offer three fantastic tours: 

5-Day Orkney & the Far North Tour – Departing from Edinburgh, experience highlights of Scotland’s mainland, before immersing yourself in Orkney’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and incredible wildlife.  

8-Day Orkney, Skye & the Far North Tour – Also from Edinburgh, on this extended tour, you’ll be able to contrast and compared two Scottish islands, diving even deeper into the magic of Scotland’s northern isles and wild landscapes.  

3-Day Orkney & the Far North Tour – Departing from Inverness, this is the perfect short escape to focus on Orkney, packed with history and scenic beauty. 

Book Your Tailor-Made Orkney Adventure 

Orkney is a place where history, nature, and culture come together to create a one-of-a-kind destination. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient Neolithic wonders, Viking heritage, or stunning coastal landscapes, there’s something here for everyone. 

We specialise in private, tailor-made tours, crafting an itinerary just for you—designed around your interests, running at your pace, and starting from anywhere in Scotland. Whether you want to explore Orkney’s highlights or venture even further into Scotland’s wild and remote corners, we’ll create a truly personal adventure just for you. 

Start Planning Your Orkney Escape Today

Whether you choose a private, tailor-made tour or one of our scheduled itineraries, we’ll help you uncover Orkney’s magic in the way that suits you best. Find everything you need to plan your trip – from flights to hotels – on KAYAK.com. Let’s create your perfect Scottish adventure—crafted just for you. 

Get in touch today and start planning your dream trip with us!