Family Fun in Orkney: The Best Late Summer Bank Holiday Activities

2025-08-21

The late summer bank holiday is here. The final chance to enjoy sunshine, outdoor fun, and time together before autumn arrives is here. Families often look for summer adventure ideas that are simple, fun, and easy to plan. In Orkney, and especially near Stromness, there are plenty of places to explore with children.

This guide offers a variety of late summer bank holiday activities, including parks, zoos, beaches, and playgrounds. You’ll also find tips on what to pack and why this holiday is such a special time for family memories.

Why the Late Summer Bank Holiday Matters

The August bank holiday is more than just a day off. The last long weekend of summer is here. Schools reopen soon, the weather begins to cool, and routines return.

That’s why families love to make the most of this time. The last chance to spend a holiday and quality time with your family before autumn approaches.

The perfect time to enjoy an ice cream, pack a picnic, and make the most of the sunshine has arrived. A short break, a day trip, or an afternoon outside can create memories that kids remember for years. Here are some summer adventure ideas for families.

Planning activities doesn’t need to be complicated. The best bank holiday ideas often involve fresh air, nature, and simple fun. Here are some easy and enjoyable options:

Go for a family picnic in a local park.
Visit a zoo or wildlife centre.
Explore sandy beaches with buckets and spades.
Take part in treasure hunts or family walks.
Try cycling or scooting along coastal paths.
Enjoy playgrounds and outdoor games.

The late summer sun in Orkney makes all these activities perfect for families with children.

Child-Friendly Places Near Stromness and Orkney

Orkney may feel quiet and peaceful, but it’s filled with family-friendly attractions. Here are the best places to enjoy with your children this bank holiday. Families can enjoy walking tours that bring history to life, with guides sharing stories of Vikings, seafarers, and island traditions. The islands are also perfect for open air fun, from picnics on the beach to playground visits in the fresh breeze. For parents planning creating a summer of lasting memories, Orkney offers unique experiences that feel both relaxing and adventurous. Each site is brought to life by its scenery, wildlife, and welcoming local spirit.

📍 Birsay Bay and the Brough of Birsay

A stunning coastal spot with rock pools for children to explore.
At low tide, you can walk across the causeway to the tidal island.
Families can enjoy birdwatching and spotting seals on the rocks.

Learn more about Birsay Bay

📍 Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

One of Orkney’s most famous sites.
Children can explore ancient houses and see how people lived 5,000 years ago.
The visitor centre has interactive displays and activities.

Discover Skara Brae

📍 Stromness Museum

A small but fascinating museum in the heart of Stromness.
Exhibits include maritime history, natural history, and Arctic exploration.
Great for curious children who enjoy learning while exploring.

Visit Stromness Museum

📍 Pickaquoy Centre and Playpark (Kirkwall)

A large leisure centre with a cinema, pool, and climbing wall.
Outdoor playpark with swings, slides, and adventure zones.
Perfect for a family day when the weather is mixed.

Check the Pickaquoy Centre

📍 Corrigall Farm Museum

A working farm museum that shows traditional Orkney life.
Children can see farm animals, tools, and old-style living.
A hands-on, fun way to learn about history.

Check the Corrigall Farm Museum

📍 Scapa Beach

A safe sandy beach close to Kirkwall.
Great for paddling, sandcastle building, and family walks.
Picnic-friendly with easy parking.

📍 Highland Park Visitor Centre (for parents!)

While children enjoy the open spaces, adults can take a short tour of Orkney’s famous whisky distillery.
Family-friendly in parts, with outdoor areas to relax.

Zoos, Parks, and Outdoor Spaces for Kids

While Orkney doesn’t have expansive city zoos, it has wonderful wildlife and nature reserves. These make fantastic late summer bank holiday activities for families.

Hoy Nature Reserve: Spot sea eagles, red-throated divers, and rare plants.
Marwick Head RSPB Reserve: Thousands of seabirds, perfect for children who love wildlife.
Happy Valley Woodland: A magical woodland walk near Stenness with streams and bridges.
Peedie Sea (Kirkwall): A calm loch where kids can walk, play, and feed the ducks.

Outdoor Playgrounds and Family Fun

Sometimes, children just want a good playground. Near Stromness and across Orkney, there are safe and fun places for little ones.

Stromness Playpark: A small but well-kept park with swings and slides.
Pickaquoy Play Area: A Larger playground with space to run.
Local School Playgrounds: Many allow public use outside school hours.
Beach Play: Buckets, spades, and nature’s playground by the sea.

What to Pack for a Late Summer Holiday

Packing is simple when you plan. The Orkney weather can change quickly, even in summer. Here’s a family checklist:

Light jackets and waterproofs.
Sturdy shoes for walking.
Sun hats and sunscreen (the sun is still strong).
Picnic blankets and baskets.
Reusable water bottles.
Buckets, spades, and nets for rock pooling.
A small first aid kit.
Extra layers for cool evenings.

Tip: Pack snacks and treats for children. It keeps the day fun and easy.

Why This Holiday is So Important

By September, the school year starts, the days grow shorter, and weekends fill with activities. That’s why the late summer bank holiday is so special. A final chance to enjoy:

Long sunny evenings.
Outdoor meals and picnics.
Playful moments on the beach.
Adventures before the routine of school.

Families who spend this time together create memories that last. Even a simple day out can mean more than an extensive journey. Children remember laughter, games, and time with their parents.

Tips for Stress-Free Family Days

A family day out should be easy, not stressful. Here are some tips to keep things smooth:

Plan, but keep plans flexible.
Choose one main activity per day to avoid tired kids.
Pack snacks and water so you don’t rush to the shops.
Bring a change of clothes for the little ones.
Use local transport when possible to reduce parking stress.

Fun Bank Holiday Ideas in Orkney

If you’re looking for extra bank holiday ideas, try mixing indoor and outdoor plans.

Morning: Picnic at Scapa Beach.
Afternoon: Visit Stromness Museum or Skara Brae.
Evening: Walk along the harbour and enjoy fish and chips.

Or try:

Morning: Woodland walk at Happy Valley.
Afternoon: Family swim at Pickaquoy Centre.
Evening: Play at the local park and watch the sunset.

These small adventures add to a full and happy day.

Wrapping Up Your Late Summer Bank Holiday

The Orkney Islands are a wonderful place to enjoy the late summer bank holiday. Families in Stromness and beyond can enjoy beaches, parks, wildlife, and child-friendly attractions.

Remember, this is your last chance to spend a holiday and quality time with your family before autumn arrives. Pack wisely, choose your favourite spots, and make memories that will last long after the summer ends.

So, what are your plans? Whether it’s beaches, museums, or playgrounds, Orkney has something for every family. Take these summer adventure ideas, enjoy the outdoors, and celebrate together.

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