Discover the History and Beauty of Orkney Islands and Stay at the Stromness Hotel

Photo by Maxwell Andrews on Unsplash

Off the north coast of Scotland, the Orkney Islands is an extensive group of islands. Orkney consists of about 70 islands of which only 20 are inhabited. This remote corner of the world is a discoverers’ and historians’ paradise. In 1472, Orkney’s Earldom was incorporated into the Kingdom of Scotland due to the failure of the family of James III of Scotland’s bride, Margaret of Denmark, to pay the dowry.

Renewable energy in Orkney Islands

In addition to the Mainland, most of the remaining islands are divided into two groups: The North Isles and the South Isles. Orkney generates more renewable energy than it can use from the significant wind and marine energy resources. In addition to the unspoiled natural beauty, rugged coastlines, and fascinating wildlife, these islands boast many interesting historical sites that attract both professional and amateur historians from all over the world.

Research, reports and findings have shown that the islands have been inhabited for at least 8,500 years, originally by Mesolithic (Middle Stone Age) and Neolithic (New Stone Age) tribes and then by the Picts (Early Middle Ages). It is simply fascinating to explore places and get a feel for what life was like thousands of years ago.

Orkney Islands, a Historian’s Dream, dating back centuries

Historians are absolutely intrigued by the Orkney Islands and the history and information available, housed in the various museums and libraries. One of the most famous historical sites to explore, is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Skara Brae. Skara Brae hosts a preserved Neolithic village said to date back to about 3000 BCE and is one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe. Dwellings and artefacts are clearly visible, and the mere fact that these buildings, dwellings and items have been around for over 5000 years is incredible.

Another site in Stromness, Orkney is the Ring of Brodgar which is a Neolithic stone circle that is said to be about 4500 years old. The Ring of Brodgar is part of a larger complex of ancient monuments which includes the Maeshowe chambered tomb and the Standing Stones of Stenness. Both the Ring of Brodgar and the Stones are older than Stonehenge and the great pyramids of Egypt.

The Churchill Barriers were constructed during World War ll in Orkney as a defensive measure to prevent enemy ships and submarines from entering Scapa Flow, which housed the bulk of Britain's fleet. 

With the plethora of historical sites and the length of time people have been living in Orkney, many local residents have ties to days gone by and have interesting tales to tell.

Stromness in the Orkney Islands is an amazing place to visit, with each season showing off nature’s best.

Besides being a historian’s dream, the Orkney Islands is an area  of seasonal wonders. It is a quiet haven for wildlife. Thousands of birds have made Orkney their home amongst them puffins, gulls, gannets, guillemots and kittiwakes as well as marshland and moor dwellers like hen harriers, curlew, red throat divers and other birds of prey.

Avid bird watchers could be rewarded by a sighting of a golden or white-tailed eagle.

The unpolluted seas surrounding the Islands host a huge variety of marine life ranging from whales, seals, dolphins and orcas. Limpets, sea urchins, otters, hermit crabs and starfish are in abundance in the unspoiled waters surrounding the islands. Besides the fauna, the flora in Orkney thrives in the clean air and undisturbed and uncultivated habitat. 

Plant life in Orkney islands

Orkney has approximately 500 native plants including the Primula Scotica. During summer the Islands come alive with a blanket of colourful flowers decorating the wild expansive landscapes. 

Northern Lights in Orkney Islands

In late autumn and winter a few lucky visitors and local residents may catch a glimpse of the spectacular Northern Lights, or as known to locals the Merry Dancers. Those fortunate enough to experience this phenomenon will be enchanted by the hues of  blues, greens, yellows, and red as the natural lights illuminate the expansive, unpolluted skies.

Visit Orkney Islands all year round and experience the multifaceted attractions each season offers

Visitors don’t visit Orkney for the weather, so remember your winter woollies, and pay a visit to Stromness in Orkney to enrich your mind, body and soul.

For a full Stromness experience, book and stay at the charming Stromness Hotel and enjoy the hospitality. The Stromness Hotel is a classically historical building with modern amenities.