Orkney Attractions and Heritage Sites (Places to Visit)
We have compiled a list of Attractions in Orkney to visit during your stay. We hope the information about the attractions in Orkney helps you with your holiday planning.
1. Westray Heritage Centre - Pierowall, Westray, Orkney, KW17 2BZ - Tel No: 01857 677414
The Westray Heritage Centre is a fun and informative place to visit on a trip to the Orkney Islands. Many visitors travel to the centre to view the Westray Wife, a small figurine which represents the earliest rendering of a human face ever discovered in the United Kingdom. The Westray Heritage Centre also features many other fascinating displays, including interactive exhibits to entertain younger visitors.
2. Bishop's and Earl's Palace - Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1PD - Tel No: 01856 871918
Located in Kirkwall next to the St Magnus Cathedral are The Bishop's and Earl's Palace, both intriguing locations to investigate. The Bishop's palace was built in the 12th century. The much larger Earl's palace, built in 1607, served as the palace's replacement. Attached to the Bishop's palace is the Bishop Reid Tower, which offers visitors picturesque views of Kirkwall and the St Magnus Cathedral.
Situated in an area that encompasses the ancient stone monument known as the Ring of Brodgar, the RSPB Brodgar is a stunning wildlife reserve. The park is open year-round, and each season presents visitors with unique opportunities to experience nature. In addition, the RSPB Brodgar offers unparalleled bird watching. With numerous bird species present all year long, the reserve will delight the enthusiast as well as the casual viewer.
4. Scapa Flow Visitor Centre - Lyness, Hoy, Orkney, KW16 3NU - Tel No: 01856 791300
A visit to the Scapa Flow Visitor Centre will be of great interest to anyone wishing to gain an unsurpassed sense of history. Scapa Flow, a unique body of water which has been used for centuries as a harbor, served a crucial role in World War I and II. The diverse selections on display include, weaponry exhibits, comprehensive models, collections of photographs, and memorabilia that belonged to those who lived and died in the distinctive region of Orkney.
The Click Mill is an interesting and educational destination on the main island in Orkney. Owing its name to the sound made while operating, the Click Mill is an old-fashioned horizontal water-mill. The Click Mill is the only operational mill of its kind in Orkney. The site has been restored completely and offers a unique historical encounter.
6. Kirbuster Farm and Folk Museum - Birsay, Orkney, KW17 2LX - Tel No: 01856 711268
Offering an opportunity to view the only unreconstructed central-hearth dwelling in all of Northern Europe, Kirbuster Farm and Folk Museum is an exciting and history-rich destination worthy of examination by anyone travelling to Orkney. Here one may view a variety of fascinating traditional farm equipment or enjoy the brilliance of the restored Victorian gardens.
7. Heart of Neolithic Orkney - Orkney
An intriguing point of interest is the majestic Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a collection of ancient monuments which provide intriguing insight into what life was like thousands of years in the past. The Heart of Neolithic Orkney offers unmatched views of captivating stone structures and amazing opportunities to explore many historical achievements.
8. Skara Brae Prehistoric Village - Stromness, Orkney , KW16 3LR - Tel No: 01856 841815
Providing a rare occasion to view a magnificently preserved ancient settlement, the Skara Brae Prehistoric Village is a wonderful destination for any visitor to Orkney. Observing the near-perfect condition of the buildings in the prehistoric community will bring the past to life in a meaningful and memorable way.
9. Broch of Gurness - Aikerness, Orkney , KW17 2NH - Tel No: 01856 751414
The Broch of Gurness is an extraordinary example of an Iron Age settlement, located in peaceful surroundings with much to see and explore. Brochs are stone structures that are exclusive to Scotland, and the Broch of Gurness is a fascinating example of this unique form of architecture. The ruins of a once-mighty tower exist at the centre of the site, surrounded by the remains of smaller buildings that were once an active village.
Maes Howe is a prehistoric burial site in Orkney that features exceptional examples of early construction mastery. A prime illustration of an ancient architectural accomplishment, the tomb consists of numerous chambers and passageways built with stunning precision. Maes Howe also features one of the most substantial collections of runic carvings in existence today.
