Orkney Holidays

Stretching 49 miles from north to south and 38 miles from east to west, the wind-swept Orkney Islands are separated from the Scottish mainland by the wild waters of the Pentland Firth. Beyond the famous standing stones and ancient sites, jaw-dropping coastal scenery, aurora-brushed skies, and seafood plucked from unpolluted waters make this mystical archipelago one of a kind.

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Map of Orkney

Getting there & getting around

Aerial view of a beach on Orkney in Scotland, flying from North Ronaldsay to Kirkwall

How to get to Orkney

These enchanting islands off Scotland's north coast are more accessible than you might think. For the quickest option, fly direct from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness or Aberdeen. Or, if you're looking for a more leisurely route, opt for one of the three vehicle ferry links which run 39 combined sailings each week. Northlink sails from Aberdeen to Kirkwall as well as Scrabster to Stromness, whilst a Pentland Ferries route runs from Gill’s Bay (near John o’ Groats) to South Ronaldsay in just over an hour. Whatever you decide, we can pre-book all your flights, ferries and car hire.

View across the causeway to the Brough of Brisay, accessible at low tide on Orkney in Scotland.

Self-Drive Orkney Holidays

Explore at your own pace on a self-drive holiday to Orkney. Choose to take an overnight crossing by car-ferry from Aberdeen or if you’ve time to drive to the far north of the mainland, shorter crossings are available. For those wanting a longer adventure of more than a week, combine a trip to Orkney with the North Coast 500 on the mainland, Or, if you're thinking of a fortnight away, explore both Orkney and the Shetland Islands in depth. Speak to one of our travel specialists to find out more.

To make sure you experience the very best that Orkney has to offer, before you travel we'll send you a list of recommendations including natural wonders, suggested activities, local attractions and places to eat.

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Experiences on the Orkney Isles

The Ring Of Brodgar with views of the sea beyond on Orkney in Scotland.

Find the Heart of Neolithic Orkney

This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes the tomb of Maeshowe, the Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar and the Ness of Brodgar. Get a glimpse of life over 5000 years ago at these ancient, mystical sites which are constantly being further excavated.

Aikerness Bay on the northwest coast of Mainland Orkney in Scotland

Discover Orkney's most Breathtaking Beaches

From Scapa and Skaill to the Sands of Wright, the beautiful archipelago is home to multiple beaches ranging from white sands to rugged rocks. Whether you're planning an intrepid exploration or a sandy stroll, you'll be sure to find wildflowers and tranquil waters teeming with wildlife.

The charming houses and harbour of Stromness in Orkney, Scotland on a sunny day

Explore Stromness Maritime Town

Visit Orkney’s charming maritime town; the architectural gem which is Stromness. Wander down winding streets and discover independent shops full of beautiful crafts, textiles and jewellery. Explore the Stromness artistic scene at the Five-star Pier Arts Centre.

Picnic at Old Man of Hoy on Orkney in Scotland on a sunny day

Visit The Old Man of Hoy

One of the UK's tallest sea stacks, The Old Man of Hoy emerges from the watery depths surrounded by dramatic cliffs and plunging hills. There is a breathtaking walk leading you along a rare well maintained path to view the spectacle, where you'll encounter the island's rich birdlife.

Watch Wildlife Wonders at Marwick Head

The incredible Marwick Head RSPB nature reserve sits upon a cliff edge and is a haven for sea birds. Take in the outstanding sweeping views across the ocean as you look out for nesting and diving puffins, fulmars, kittiwakes and razorbills.

North Ronaldsay sheep on the beach in Orkney, Scotland

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

There are many walks to tackle for keen hikers visiting Orkney. From the St Magnus Way and Hoy's Radwick Valley to the Eday Loop, be sure to bring your binoculars to see the various species of seabirds flying overhead, or look down along the coastal line where you may be lucky enough to spot a herd of seals or a pod of orcas.

The colourful and ornate Italian Chapel on Lamb Holm, Orkney in Scotland

Marvel at The Italian Chapel

Visiting this unique building is a must-see excursion whilst in Orkney. Built during World War II by Italian Prisoners of War being held on the islands, The Italian Chapel was constructed from two basic Nissen huts. The inside was ornately painted and has been maintained as a beautiful, historic sanctuary.

St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall on Orkney, Scotland

Amble around Kirkwall

For those with a keen interest in history, Kirkwall's medieval coastline is a must. Head to the harbour and follow the towns winding streets to visit St Magnus Cathedral and the towns two stunning palaces.

Stony beach and the blue sea on a sunny day in Orkney, Scotland.

Head to One of the World's Best Diving Sites

Once a harbour used by the Vikings, then a port for ships in both world wars, Scapa Flow attracts divers from around the globe to witness its clear waters teeming with mystifying sea creatures.

Scallops at The Foveran Restaurant, St Old, Orkney in Scotland

Dine at The Foveran Restaurant

With impressive sea views overlooking the historic Scapa Flow, this family-run gem is committed to using authentic, fresh Scottish produce in mouth-watering dishes which honour Orkney's culinary traditions.

Highlights of Orkney

Take a wild walk to the Old Man of Hoy

At 137m, the Old Man of Hoy is the UK's tallest sea stack – made famous in 1966 when British mountaineer Chris Bonnington led the first ascent. Formed from red sandstone, the dramatic pinnacle juts out of the ocean off the eroded west coast of Hoy. From Moaness Pier, where the ferries dock, it's a full-day circular route through the Cuilag Hills to the dizzying cliffs at St John's Head. For a shorter but equally spectacular walk, follow the coastal path from Rackwick Bay.

Dive the sunken wrecks at Scapa Flow

Sculpted by glaciation and sheltered by a ring of islands, Scapa Flow is one of the world’s largest natural harbours and is steeped in maritime history. Vikings anchored their longships here, trading fleets took refuge during the Napoleonic Wars, and the seafloor is littered with the scuttled wrecks of the German High Seas Fleet. The sunken WWI battleships have become a haven for aquatic wildlife and are considered to be one of the world’s top scuba diving experiences.

The ocean floor surrounding Orkney attracts divers from all over the world. From battleships resting at Scarpa Flow to smaller blockships closer to the coast, each wreck is a thriving eco system, teeming with underwater wildlife.

The stone-built Neolithic settlement and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Skara Brae on Mainland in Orkney, Scotland

Get a glimpse of Stone Age life at Skara Brae

Predating Stonehenge, this 5,000-year-old village on Mainland lay buried under sand dunes for centuries until it was uncovered by a great storm in 1850. The Neolithic buildings have been remarkably well preserved, giving an unparalleled glimpse insight into Stone Age life on Orkney. Dwellings built from dry stone walls are linked by a series of passageways roofed with their original stone slabs. Inside, carefully constructed fireplaces, beds, cupboards and water cisterns paint a fascinating picture of cosy domesticity.

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Wonderful Places to Stay in Orkney

Cantick Head Lighthouse

Perched atop a craggy cliff on the edge on the Isle of Hoy, the quaint self-catering cottage at Cantick Head Lighthouse offers dramatic sea views out towards the Pentland Firth and Caithness.

Orkney, Scotland