Around Scotland: Orkney

Situated 6.2 miles from the north-east tip of the Scottish mainland, Orkney is Scotland’s sixth largest island and has a reputation for sunsets that set the sky alight.

With a wealth of breathtaking landscapes, ancient history and mesmerising architecture on offer, Orkney has substance enough to give any avid explorer a superior experience of authentic Scotland.

As well as hosting some of the best preserved Neotlithic sites in Europe, Orkney is also a heartland for much of Scotland’s contemporary creative industry and modern art galleries, effectively combining the historical and the current into an eclectic melting-pot.

Kirkwall, meaning ‘old Norse’, is the main town and capital of Orkney. Kirkwall presents itself to visitors in two considerably different ways. The first is the busy local hub, a town which serves its purpose as a hive of community and tourist activity, offering quirky shops, cafés, museums, galleries and cultural festivals. Its second guise is as a historical haven of almost untouched Nordic architecture, including the 12th century Bishop’s Palace and Tankerness House, now home of the Orkney Museum.

Well-preserved examples of ancient Norse buildings can be seen both in the original part of the town and in the enchanting St. Magnus Cathedral. The cathedral was founded in 1173 in memory of the Norse, Saint Magnus by his nephew and Earl of Orkney, Rognvald Kolson. The remains of both men are buried within the cathedral and free tours of the building are regularly available.

Orkney’s abundance of heritage means that a diversion from the hustle and bustle of Kirkwall is never too inaccessible. Fewer places can encapsulate the desired tranquillity and interest better than the nearby Skara Brae.

Just off the Bay of Skail, Skara Brae is the best-preserved Neolithic site in northern Europe, hauntingly uncovered after a wild storm swept the area in 1850 and revealed a warren of houses so beautifully conserved through time that the original beds and cooking stoves can still be seen.The 5,000 year old village provides a dramatic insight into how our ancestors lived and is certain to keep visitors to the site captivated for hours.

Keen nature observers can take advantage of the Orcadian wildlife tours. The coastline is the habitat of a vast and varied seal population with numbers reaching 50,000. Owls, sea birds and other marine life are also common inhabitants of the island and a wildlife cruise is also available.

Where to stay

Right in the heart of Kirkwall, the St. Ola Hotel (http://www.stolahotel.co.uk/) is situated on the harbour front putting guests in a prime position to cross the road and catch a ferry to visit the surrounding Islands.

Good Watering

Recharge and revitalise with a light bite at Appie’s Tea Room and Gallery. Appie’s prides itself on a healthy menu using quality, fresh local produce and the gallery adds to the dual function of Appie’s, showcasing the work of owner and photographer Pam Farmer and other local artists. Appie’s also offers the additional visual delight of an awe-inspiring 180 degree panoramic view of Orkney’s West Mainland. Visitors unable to wait for a return trip to experience another helping of its culinary pleasures can even purchase an Appie’s recipe book and take a little slice of Orkney home.

How to get there

Travel to Aberdeen by car, bus or train and complete your journey from Aberdeen to Orkney by ferry. Flybe also operate flights from all Scottish airports directly to Kirkwall.