A Day Trip to Orkney: History and Natural Splendour
2024-09-12
If you are planning a day trip to the Orkney Islands, prepare yourself for a real treat. A day trip here promises an unforgettable experience packed with discoveries at every turn. Located just off the northern coast of Scotland, Orkney is a captivating archipelago known for its prehistoric sites, dramatic landscapes, and charming local communities. Within just one day, you have the opportunity to explore different sites and get the most out of Orkney’s major attractions.
Getting to the Orkney Islands
To embark on your Orkney day trip, you have to choose either a ferry or a flight. As for ferry, you'll likely start with a ferry ride from Scrabster, John O’ Groats, or Gills Bay. If you are bringing a car, you may choose a ferry to transport it into the islands.
NorthLink Ferries is one of the ferry routes inroutes functional in Orkney. It sails between Aberdeen and Kirkwall and from Kirkwall to Lerwick. PentLand Ferries is another route, connecting Gills Bay to St Margaret's Hope.
When it comes to flights, Kirkwall Airport is the main airport serving the islands. There are routes available from Aberdeen, Inverness, Edinburgh, and Glasgow to Kirkwall.
If you prefer to navigate through different islands of Orkney, there are several noteworthy tours available. Orkney West Mainland Tour is one of them, starting in Kirkwall, and taking you to see different prehistoric sites and discover the landscape. Half-Day Trip in Orkney is another well-reviewed tour that starts in Stromness and has up to six stops, including Scapa Flow and Standing Stones of Stenness.
Main Highlights
Kirkwall Attractions
Kirkwall is the largest town in Orkney and most populated. The town itself boasts several important landmarks worthy of visit. For a taste of mediaeval history, visit St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. This fantastic work of art was erected in 1137 and was made of yellow and red sandstones.
At Kirkwall, you may also pay a visit to The Orkney Museum, with its impressive collection of old photos and artefacts. Finally, you can go to Highland Park Distillery, a unique 2-century old distillery with its unique distilling process.
Stromness Attractions
Stromness is considered the second biggest town in the Orkney Islands and offers visitors a rich blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery. One of its standout attractions is Skaill House, a magnificent 17th-century mansion with a fascinating past. The house is filled with period furnishings, artefacts, and even curiosities collected from around the world.
Another must-visit is the Stromness Museum, which showcases the deep connection between Orkney’s people and the sea. The museum offers an insightful look into the islands' maritime history, including exhibits on shipwrecks, whaling, and the Hudson's Bay Company.
The Prehistoric Sites
One of Orkney’s most impressive and iconic sites is Skara Brae, a Neolithic village dating back over 5,000 years. Perfectly preserved, Skara Brae reveals the everyday life of Orkney’s early inhabitants – farmers and fishermen who lived in harmony with their environment.
Another must-visit is the Ring of Brodgar, an enormous stone circle that’s part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. This massive stone circle, a ceremonial henge, is one of the largest in the British Isles.
Local Cafes and Restaurants
After a busy morning of exploring, take a break at one of Orkney’s cosy cafes or restaurants. The Storehouse Restaurant is one of the best places for local cuisine. It is located at the centre of Kirkwall and is pretty popular with tourists. It has some delicious dishes and fantastic seafood.
The Foveran Restaurant is another top choice with its famous steaks, scallops, and cheeseboard. It is open for both breakfast and dinner and provides a great ending to a perfect day of exploration.
If you are going to try Italian food, then Lucano is the place for you. It is also located in Kirkwall, with great service and a lovely atmosphere. People love its freshly cooked pizzas and its well-prepared pasta dishes.
Practical Tips before the Trip
To make your day trip to Orkney seamless, consider a few practical tips. First and foremost, timing is essential. To make the most of your day trip, start early. If you're travelling by ferry, the morning sailings will give you ample time to explore the islands. Secondly, pack for unpredictable weather. Bring extra clothes and be prepared for wind and rain, even in the summer.
Furthermore, you may consider renting a car in Kirkwall is the best way to explore Orkney at your own pace. The locals are also friendly with tourists and can help you if you get lost. If you bring your own car, you have to use the ferries to carry your vehicle to the islands.
A day trip to Orkney offers a whirlwind of unforgettable experiences, from exploring ancient ruins to enjoying the island's natural beauty. As you leave the islands behind, you'll carry with you the sense that one day is never enough to truly experience all that Orkney has to offer.
