Orkney

Island tours

Participate in a semi-private tour (maximum of 8 guests) that takes you to some of the most fabulous spots on the West Mainland of Orkney. Start your tour at the Kirkwall Travel Centre in the centre of Kirkwall and take a scenic drive looking at the magnificent Scapa Flow, which was the main British naval base during both World Wars. Your guide will tell you about some of the major events that happened in the waters of Scapa Flow. Then stop by the Unstan Tomb, a 5,300-year-old burial chamber situated on the edge of Stenness Loch. Next, grab the opportunity to take some photos at the wild Cliffs of Yesnaby, some of the most stunning coastal scenery on the Orkney Islands. Feel the fresh air on your cheeks and capture some memories. Take a guided tour of Skara Brae, discovered in 1850. Learn more about what is considered the best-preserved Neolithic Village in Northern Europe. Your guide will tell you all about this magnificent 5000-year-old village. After the guided tour, enjoy some free time and have a look at the 400-year-old Skaill House or take a look around the Skara Brae visitor centre before heading to the Ring of Brodgar. A spectacular henge monument dating back 4500 years, this stone circle has been an iconic part of the Orkney landscape for thousands of years. Finally, stop at the Standing Stones of Stenness, which is believed to be the oldest stone circle in the UK. Experience the history and mystery of this site. Finish your tour at the Kirkwall Travel Centre, or get dropped off at the cruise port if required.

Day 1: From here, you drive along the northeast Highland coastline, travelling into some of Scotland's most dramatic scenery. Onwards through Scotland's most northerly mainland village, John o' Groats, and then to Gills Bay, where you board the ferry, and cross the Pentland Firth into the Orkney Archipelago. It’s a short drive to the famous Italian Chapel where you stop for a visit before continuing to the Viking stronghold of Kirkwall, capital of Orkney. Here you can visit Kirkwall's magnificent Viking Cathedral and enjoy its historic winding streets in the evening. Day 2: Today is your chance to explore the modern and ancient wonders of this fantastic island; a land of contrasts, where fertile green pastures are fringed by shores of golden sands washed by waters of the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. You visit the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the mystical prehistoric stone circle at Brodgar and the Druidic standing stones of Stenness. Then you explore the cairn of Maeshowe, where in the 12th century the Vikings left one of the largest collections of Norse runic inscriptions. Then it’s back to Kirkwall for your second night after what is sure to be a memorable day. Day 3: You'll have your last chance to grab some gifts for friends and family, and visit the local cathedral in Kirkwall. And after a ferry back to the mainland, you travel through the history-soaked regions of Caithness and Sutherland. You’ll find out about the Highland clearances, a world-changing period in Scotland’s dark history, and get a glimpse of some of Scotland’s most remote fishing villages. We arrive back in Inverness early evening.

I will pick up to 4 passengers up from any location In Kirkwall, Kirkwall Airport or from the Ferry ports of Stromness or St Margarets Hope on the Orkney mainland, This short tour is ideal for those visiting the island on a day trip via the link ferries from the Scottish mainland, visiting Orkney by cruise liner or even a day out while visiting the island for longer. We will then visit many sites around Orkney as a private group, the duration and number of sites is totally up to You! I run my base tour at 5 hours but I would be more than happy to extend this on the day at an additional cost. I operate all of my tours as a hybrid of a guided tour and with free time to explore sites at your own pace. I will provide local knowledge from a lifetime of experience and information on Orkney history for the duration of the tour. Below is an example itinerary of My standard 5 hour tour leaving Kirkwall at 0900 hrs. 9 am - Leave pickup location and Visit The Iconic St Magnus Cathedral and the Bishops/Earl's Palaces. - Drive past the HMS Royal Oak memorial and the Iconic natural harbour of Scapa Flow. - Drive over Scorradale road for a fantastic photo opportunity of Stromness and Hoy. - Visit the 5300 year old Unstan Tomb with time to explore the site. - Visit the cliffs of Yesnaby for another photo opportunity. 11:00 am - Visit Scara Brae prehistoric village with variable time to explore at your leisure (60 minutes). There is a cafe on site and toilets. (Update April 24) please ensure tickets are reserved online for here at the time of booking the tour as capacity can be reached. - Visit the ring of brodgar for a chance to explore one of the great monuments on foot. - Pass by or visit the Standing stones of Stenness. - Visit the Italian Chapel via the Churchill barriers for a chance to explore more island history and get more photos (20 mins) - Time allowing some free time in Kirkwall before drop off. 2 pm - Base tour end.

This self-drive road trip route covers the North Coast of Scotland on a road trip of up to 500 miles and includes a guide for 30 towns and villages. The route is split into three: east, north and west coast. Starting and ending in Inverness, or end on the west coast, if desired. HOW IT WORKS This online guidebook is designed to take the guesswork out of planning your multi-destination trip. No need for endless internet searches—everything you need is in one place, carefully curated with recommendations and helpful links to dive deeper into each destination. Pick and choose from a variety of ideas, including top attractions, hidden gems, and unique experiences and customise your journey to suit your needs. Tailor the itinerary to fit your schedule, with flexible options ranging from 3 to 14 nights. Get started today with instant access (choose the nearest date as with 1 year’s access, there’s no need to wait until your travel date). Use on smartphone, tablet, or desktop. ........................................................................................................................................................ WHAT’S INCLUDED: Plan your road trip around Scotland’s north coast. This flexible itinerary spans up to 500 miles, covering 30 destinations. Choose your own itinerary and time frame. Use the guidebook to choose how to spend your time, example: • Inverness: Use the guide to choose how to spend your time in the capital of the Scottish Highlands, known for its stunning views of the Moray Firth, and historic sites like Inverness Castle. • John O’Groats: Visit the iconic northernmost point of mainland Scotland, renowned for its stunning coastal views and vibrant signpost marking the distance to Land's End. • Orkney Islands: Explore the rich Neolithic history, stunning coastal scenery, unique wildlife, and the ancient Skara Brae. • Historic castles: Use the guide to discover iconic castles to visit, including Eilean Donan Castle, Castle of Mey and Dunrobin Castle. • Whisky distilleries: Visit for tours, tastings, and exploring Scotland's whisky heritage. • Coastal towns and charming fishing villages: Choose how to spend your time visiting coastal stops such as Ullapool, Lochinver, Kylesku, Applecross, Dunnet and Durness. • Learn about the Jacobite Risings and the Battle of Culloden. • Plus so much more to discover! • Includes an overnight stays map for locating accommodation or campsites on the route. HOW TO ACCESS: see Know Before You Go

Explore the ancient wonders of Orkney on a captivating half-day private tour from Kirkwall. The journey will take you to the dramatic coastal cliffs of Yesnaby, where you’ll witness breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and sea stacks. Continue to the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, one of Europe’s best-preserved Stone Age settlements, and delve into the mysteries of its history. Next, visit the Ring of Brodgar, an impressive stone circle set amidst the stunning Orkney landscape. Learn about its significance as a prehistoric ceremonial site before heading to the Standing Stones of Stenness, another enigmatic stone circle steeped in ancient lore. Throughout the tour, you’ll have the convenience of private transportation and the expertise of a local guide to uncover the rich history and natural beauty of Orkney. Note: You must book the Tickets for Skara Brae in advance on the official website.

I will pick up to 4 passengers up from any location In Kirkwall, Kirkwall Airport or from the Ferry ports of Stromness or St Margarets Hope on the Orkney mainland, This short tour is ideal for those visiting the island on a day trip via the link ferries from the Scottish mainland, visiting Orkney by cruise liner or even a day out while visiting the island for longer. If a specific pickup location is required please message me through the system or directly via my email calum@historicorkney.com and it can be logged manually. We will then visit many sites around Orkney as a private group, the duration and number of sites is totally up to You! I run my base tour at 5 hours but I would be more than happy to extend this on the day at an additional cost. I operate all of my tours as a hybrid of a guided tour and with free time to explore sites at your own pace. I will provide local knowledge from a lifetime of experience and information on Orkney history for the duration of the tour. Below is an example itinerary of My standard 5 hour tour leaving Kirkwall at 0900 hrs (Assumed start time unless informed otherwise) 9 am - Leave pickup location - Pass by the Rendall Doocot after a scenic drive. - Visit the brough of Gurness (30 mins) - Pass by the Swannay Brewery - Visit Kirbuster Farm Museum (approx 20 mins) - Visit the Brough of Birsay (20 mins on base tour) - Pass by the Barony mill and the option to stop at Kitchener Memorial (an extra 60 minutes would be required) - Pass by the site of Skara Brae prehistoric village (There is a Cafe on site and toilets) - Visit the cliffs of Yesnaby - Visit the Stromness museum - Visit Logins well and the cannon Via Stromness high street for a true Local experience! (5-10 mins) - Visit Ness Point for a photo opportunity. This is also the site of Ness Battery (20 mins) - Arrive back in Kirkwall with the choice of going up Wideford hill for a photo opportunity or visit a hidden gem local produce store for a true taste of Orkney. 2 pm - Tour End I do not enforce strict timings or set routes on my tours to allow my clients the time and freedom to explore sights their own way and make every tour unique in its own way. I currently use a midsize SUV for my tours but also drive a 4x4 estate car, both have a capacity of 4 mid sized adults or 3 with extra space. These offer more room than most minibus platform vehicles. Please ensure at the time of booking there is a pickup location and start time filled in or alternatively contact me to let me know what cruise ship/flight you are booked on and an estimated tour start time. (Update Feb 2024) I am having difficulty replying to clients who contact me through the getyourguide message platform please message me directly if you do not receive a response within 24 hours.

The Orkney Day Trip meets the Scrabster - Stromness ferry and returns in time for the ferry back to the Mainland (ferry fares not included). Visit the Cliffs of Yesnaby, Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness, and Kirkwall. Enjoy a semi-private tour with a maximum of 8 passengers. Your local guide will provide commentary in the vehicle (English only) and also guides on some of the sites. Meet your guide at the Stromness Travel Centre and set off on your adventure. Travel to the Cliffs of Yesnaby and take in the stunning views. Continue to Skara Brae and Skaill House, where you can explore the ancient village and the nearby manor house. Next, head to the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. Afterward, enjoy free time in Kirkwall or visit the Italian Chapel for an additional fee. Then, see Scapa Flow and Unstan Tomb before returning to Stromness. Please note that this tour is not suitable for cruise ship guests as the cruise port is in Kirkwall which is 15 miles away from Stromness. Please check out the Orkney West Mainland Tour instead.

I will pick up to 4 passengers up from any location In Kirkwall, Kirkwall Airport or from the Ferry ports of Stromness or St Margarets Hope on the Orkney mainland, This short tour is ideal for those visiting the island on a day trip via the link ferries from the Scottish mainland, visiting Orkney by cruise liner or even a day out while visiting the island for longer. We will then visit many sites around Orkney as a private group, the duration and number of sites is totally up to You! I run my base tour at 5 hours but I would be more than happy to extend this on the day at an additional cost. I operate all of my tours as a hybrid of a guided tour and with free time to explore sites at your own pace. I will provide local knowledge from a lifetime of experience and information on Orkney history for the duration of the tour. Below is an example itinerary of My standard 5 hour tour leaving Kirkwall at 0900 hrs. 9 am - Leave pickup location and Visit The Iconic St Magnus Cathedral and the Bishops/Earl's Palaces. - Drive past the HMS Royal Oak memorial and the Iconic natural harbour of Scapa Flow. - Drive over Scorradale road for a fantastic photo opportunity of Stromness and Hoy. - Visit the 5300 year old Unstan Tomb with time to explore the site. - Visit the cliffs of Yesnaby for another photo opportunity. 11:00 am - Visit Scara Brae prehistoric village with variable time to explore at your leisure (60 minutes). There is a cafe on site and toilets. (Update April 24) please ensure tickets are reserved online for here at the time of booking the tour as capacity can be reached. - Visit the ring of brodgar for a chance to explore one of the great monuments on foot. - Pass by or visit the Standing stones of Stenness. - Visit the Italian Chapel via the Churchill barriers for a chance to explore more island history and get more photos (20 mins) - Time allowing some free time in Kirkwall before drop off. 2 pm - Base tour end.

Discover the charm of Orkney in an intimate setting with our small group tour, limited to just 6 individuals. Experience the allure of The Italian Chapel, a poignant symbol of history crafted by Italian prisoners of war during World War II. Nestled on a once-desolate island, these prisoners left behind a remarkable legacy while constructing the Churchill Barriers near Scapa Flow. Join us for an exclusive journey through time and heritage. Next we embark on a journey of engineering marvels with the Churchill Barriers – a series of four causeways spanning the picturesque Orkney Islands. Stretching over 2.3 kilometers in total, these barriers seamlessly connect the Orkney Mainland in the north to the serene South Ronaldsay, weaving through the islands of Burray, Lamb Holm, and Glimps Holm. Experience the ingenuity of human craftsmanship as you traverse these historic links, immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Orkney. Indulge your senses in the captivating beauty of the Scapa Flow area on our tour. Marvel at the dramatic coastlines, adorned with rugged cliffs and the tranquil expanse of scattered islands. Behold the picturesque slopes of lush farmland, adorned with vibrant green grasslands. A remarkable highlight of your journey: The Ring of Brodgar. Nestled approximately 6 miles northeast of Stromness on Mainland, the largest island in Orkney, this Neolithic henge and stone circle awaits your discovery. Immerse yourself in the ancient allure of this iconic site as you explore its intriguing history and marvel at its enduring presence amidst Orkney's timeless landscape. Prepare to be transported back in time to the Neolithic era as you encounter the Standing Stones of Stenness, a historic monument located five miles northeast of Stromness on the mainland of Orkney, Scotland. Widely believed to be one of the oldest henge sites in the British Isles, this sacred site offers a profound glimpse into ancient civilization and the mysteries of prehistoric culture. Join us on a journey to uncover the secrets of this remarkable archaeological wonder. Discover the awe-inspiring Skara Brae, hailed as the best-preserved Neolithic settlement in Western Europe. Situated within the UNESCO-designated Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site, Skara Brae offers a captivating window into ancient history. Immerse yourself in the mysteries of this remarkable archaeological site as you explore its well-preserved dwellings and unravel the secrets of Neolithic life. Step into the grandeur of Skaill House, Orkney's premier mansion commanding a stunning vista over the picturesque Bay of Skaill. With a rich heritage spanning 400 years, this historic landmark invites you to embark on a journey through time. Experience the essence of Orkney's aristocratic legacy in the splendor of Skaill House. Welcome to a timeless treasure awaiting your discovery.

The 5-day tour from Edinburgh takes you on a discovery of the Scottish Highlands and the Orkney Islands. Heading north from Scotland’s capital city, you can admire the breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands and explore the history of the Orkney Islands. On day 1, travel north to Loch Ness. The spectacular tour starts by heading west through the beautiful scenery of Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. The route then takes you through the haunting landscape of Glen Coe, the scene of the terrible massacre of the MacDonald Clan, and on through Fort William and the Great Glen to arrive at the fabled shores of Loch Ness. Stay overnight in Inverness. On day 2, head north via Inverness and the spectacular coastal scenery of the Moray and Cromarty Firths. Then, board the ferry for a memorable trip to the mysterious and magical Orkney Islands. Once you arrive, take in the stunning scenery and start exploring. Visit the beautiful Italian Chapel, which was built by Italian prisoners of war, as well as the famous Churchill Barriers – causeways that were constructed to protect the British naval fleet from submarines. Stay overnight at Kirkwall. On day 3, explore the ancient history of the islands. From your base in Kirkwall, which boasts many craft and gift shops to explore, spend the whole day exploring the islands. This is a land full of ancient history and you will be able to take in prehistoric marvels such as the Maeshowe chambered cairn, the world-famous Neolithic village of Skara Brae, and the brooding stone circles of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar. The day will finish with a visit to the beautiful St Magnus Cathedral. Stay overnight at Kirkwall. On day 4, start with a ferry ride back to the mainland. Then you will get the chance to take in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Stay overnight in Inverness. On day 5, head back to Edinburgh. On the way, visit the battlefield of Culloden, the site of the defeat of the Jacobite forces. You will also pass the stunning Cairngorm Mountains and explore the picturesque town of Pitlochry.