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Explore Orkney

Welcome to the magical archipelago of Orkney, a group of over 70 islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland. Known for its rich history, dramatic coastlines, Neolithic sites, and vibrant local culture, Orkney offers a unique escape for adventurers, history lovers, and nature seekers alike.

Skara Brae is one of the most remarkable prehistoric sites in Europe, and it's located on the Orkney Islands, off the north coast of Scotland. This ancient village offers an extraordinary glimpse into life over 5,000 years ago, long before the arrival of the Vikings, Romans, or even the Picts. The site is particularly famous for its incredibly well-preserved stone-built houses, which are part of a Neolithic settlement that dates back to around 3100 BCE, making it older than both the Great Pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge.

Discovery and Excavation

Skara Brae was uncovered in 1850 by a storm, which eroded the sand dunes that had been covering it. As the winds shifted the sand, the outlines of the stone structures were revealed, sparking interest and eventually leading to full excavation. Since then, it has been extensively studied, and what has emerged is an unparalleled understanding of how people lived in the Neolithic period in Orkney. Today, the site is a World Heritage Site as part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, alongside other important sites like Maeshowe, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness.

The Village

Skara Brae consists of a cluster of eight stone houses, arranged in a semi-circle. These houses were built using large, carefully shaped slabs of stone, and their walls were well-built, often up to 1.5 meters high. What makes Skara Brae so extraordinary is the degree to which these structures have survived. Unlike many other Neolithic settlements, which have been eroded or looted over time, the houses at Skara Brae are remarkably intact, offering a rare snapshot into the daily life of ancient people.

The houses were connected by a series of low, covered passageways, and each was equipped with built-in furniture such as stone beds, storage boxes, and hearths. The people who lived at Skara Brae were skilled stoneworkers, and the furniture inside the houses was crafted from the same stone material. Some of the houses even had small, built-in shelves or compartments, which may have been used for storage.

The interiors of the houses were quite sophisticated for their time. Each house had a central hearth, where fire would have been used for cooking and heating. The stone beds, built along the walls, were raised platforms, which would have been covered with animal hides and other materials for comfort. Other items found at the site, such as carved stone objects, bone tools, and pottery fragments, give us a sense of the lives of the people who lived there—farming, fishing, hunting, and crafting.

Life in Skara Brae

The people of Skara Brae lived in a highly organized and community-based society. The settlement appears to have been built around the concept of communal living, as evidenced by the shared passageways connecting the houses. It’s believed that the village was inhabited by a group of extended families, and the buildings were likely homes to several generations. The inhabitants would have relied on a mix of farming, fishing, and hunting to provide food, with evidence suggesting that they grew barley, raised livestock, and fished in the surrounding waters.

One of the most striking aspects of Skara Brae is its connection to the natural environment. The people of Skara Brae had a deep understanding of their surroundings, using materials from the land and sea to build their homes, tools, and everyday items. The settlement is located near the sea, and the people would have had access to abundant fish, shellfish, and marine resources. Evidence of fishing tools, such as fish hooks and harpoons, have been found at the site, indicating that fishing played a central role in their diet.

The People and Their Culture

The people who lived in Skara Brae are part of a broader Neolithic culture that inhabited Orkney, as well as other parts of Britain and Europe, during the late Stone Age. They were among the early farmers in the British Isles, transitioning from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to one based on agriculture. The inhabitants of Skara Brae likely also engaged in trade with other communities, as evidenced by the discovery of exotic materials, like jet (a type of lignite), which was used to make beads and ornaments.

The use of stone to build both their houses and tools was central to their way of life, and they were skilled artisans. Many of the tools and objects found at the site were finely crafted, and some items, like the carved stone "balls" found at Skara Brae, are thought to have had ceremonial or symbolic significance.

Although the exact reasons for the abandonment of Skara Brae are not known, it's believed that around 2500 BCE, the village was slowly abandoned, possibly due to changing climate conditions, food scarcity, or a shift in societal practices. It’s likely that the people moved to more sheltered locations, perhaps in response to environmental changes, such as rising sea levels or a colder climate.

Visiting Skara Brae Today

Today, Skara Brae is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Scotland, and it provides a fascinating window into the past. The site is open to the public, and visitors can explore the stone houses, see reconstructions of how they might have looked when they were inhabited, and view artifacts discovered during excavation. The visitor center nearby provides more context, offering interactive displays and information about life at Skara Brae, as well as the broader Neolithic culture of Orkney.

Skara Brae remains one of the best-preserved Neolithic villages in Europe, allowing us to step back in time and experience what life might have been like for the people who lived there over five millennia ago. Its preservation and the remarkable artifacts uncovered there continue to provide insight into the ingenuity, resourcefulness, and adaptability of early humans, offering a unique glimpse into the dawn of settled life in the British Isles.

Archaeology sites in Orkney

Skara Brae - Period: Neolithic (c. 3200-2200 BCE)

The Standing Stones of Orkney are a collection of ancient stone monuments scattered across the islands, which have been central to the island’s history and culture for thousands of years. The most famous of these is the Ring of Brodgar, but there are several other significant sites that showcase Orkney's prehistoric past. These megalithic stone structures, dating from the Neolithic and Bronze Ages, are some of the most impressive examples of ancient engineering in Europe. They continue to captivate visitors and historians alike, offering insight into the rituals, astronomy, and culture of the island's early inhabitants.

The Ring of Brodgar

The Ring of Brodgar, located on the Orkney Mainland, is perhaps the most famous and iconic of the standing stone sites in Orkney. This large stone circle is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage site, which also includes the nearby Maeshowe chambered cairn and the Standing Stones of Stenness. The Ring of Brodgar consists of 27 stones, although originally there were 60 or more, arranged in a near-perfect circle with a diameter of around 104 meters (341 feet). The stones vary in size, with the tallest reaching up to 4.5 meters (15 feet).

The purpose of the Ring of Brodgar remains a mystery, though it is believed to have had a ceremonial or ritualistic function, perhaps related to the cycles of the moon and the sun. Many researchers suggest that it may have been a site for ancient religious rituals, a place of gathering, or an astronomical observatory for tracking celestial events such as solstices and equinoxes. The alignment of the stones, with some facing specific points on the horizon, hints at the importance of celestial movements in the lives of the Neolithic people who built it.

The Ring of Brodgar is an awe-inspiring monument not just for its size but for the mystery it holds. The setting, with the stones surrounded by a tranquil loch, creates an almost mystical atmosphere, as though the stones are still holding on to the secrets of a bygone age.

The Standing Stones of Stenness

Not far from the Ring of Brodgar lies the Standing Stones of Stenness, another key site in Orkney’s prehistoric landscape. This circle is smaller than Brodgar, with just four remaining upright stones out of an original twelve. The stones at Stenness are among the oldest in the British Isles, dating back to around 3,000 BCE. The central stone, known as the "Ring Stone," stands at a height of about 5.5 meters (18 feet) and is one of the tallest Neolithic stones in Orkney.

The purpose of the Standing Stones of Stenness is also not entirely understood, but it is thought to have been a ceremonial site, possibly used for religious purposes or as an astronomical marker. Its close proximity to the Ring of Brodgar suggests that the two sites may have been linked in some way, possibly as part of a broader religious or social complex. It is thought that the people who constructed Stenness may have had similar interests in astronomy, as the site’s alignment with the movement of the sun suggests a connection to ancient solar rituals.

Other Standing Stones and Sites in Orkney

In addition to the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness, Orkney is home to a number of other fascinating standing stone sites. These include:

The Stones of Kirbister: This small circle, located on the island of Orkney's Mainland, is thought to date from the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age. It consists of several upright stones and is believed to have been used for ceremonial purposes.

The Callanish Stones of Orkney: While the Callanish Stones are most famously found on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, there are similar, though lesser-known, stone circles and alignments across Orkney, some of which have a similar arrangement and purpose. These sites are often linked with lunar or solar worship.

Skara Brae and the Stones Nearby: Scattered around the well-known Neolithic village of Skara Brae are several stones that may have had ceremonial or symbolic importance for the people who lived there. These stones are part of the larger cultural landscape that stretches back millennia in Orkney.

Archaeological Significance

The standing stones of Orkney are not just remarkable because of their size and appearance; they are deeply significant from an archaeological and cultural perspective. The layout of these stone circles and standing stones is thought to reflect sophisticated knowledge of astronomy, as many of them align with the movement of the sun, moon, and stars. These sites provide valuable insight into the lives of the Neolithic and Bronze Age people of Orkney, revealing their belief systems, social organization, and understanding of the natural world.

The purpose of these monuments is still debated by archaeologists, but it is clear that they were integral to the cultural and spiritual lives of the people who created them. Some sites may have been places of religious worship, while others may have served as gathering points for community events or as markers for important astronomical or agricultural cycles.

A Lasting Legacy

The standing stones of Orkney remain a powerful connection to the past, evoking a sense of wonder and mystery. These ancient monuments continue to attract visitors from around the world, drawn by the beauty of the stones themselves and the enigmatic nature of their purpose. They are a testament to the skill and ingenuity of the prehistoric people who constructed them, and they continue to be a vital part of Orkney's identity.

Walking among these stones today, it's easy to imagine what life might have been like in the ancient world of Orkney, as the stones silently stand watch over the land, enduring through millennia of change. The standing stones, like much of Orkney's prehistoric heritage, remain an enduring symbol of the island’s rich and mysterious past.

The Ring of Brodgar - Period: Neolithic to Early Bronze Age (c. 2500-2000 BCE)

The Broch of Gurness - Period: Iron Age (c. 500 BCE – 100 CE)

The Brough of Gurness is another fascinating archaeological site located on the Orkney Mainland, off the northern coast of the island. It is a well-preserved example of a Pictish and Viking settlement and provides valuable insights into the complex history of the region, showcasing the overlapping cultures and influences that shaped Orkney’s past. Like many other prehistoric and early historical sites on Orkney, the Brough of Gurness is a testament to the island’s strategic importance in the North Sea and its role as a center for trade, culture, and conflict throughout the ages.

Location and Layout

The Brough of Gurness is a small, uninhabited island, or "brough," located in the waters of Eynhallow Sound, in the northern part of Orkney Mainland. Access to the site is via a causeway, which is visible during low tide, connecting the island to the mainland. The island’s strategic location, surrounded by water and with commanding views of the surrounding coast, made it an ideal site for defense and settlement.

On the island, you’ll find the remains of a Pictish broch (a large, round stone tower) that dates back to the Iron Age, around 2,000 years ago, as well as later structures associated with Viking settlers. The site is relatively well-preserved, with sections of the broch still standing and walls of other buildings still intact. This makes the Brough of Gurness one of the most important sites for understanding both Pictish and Viking settlements in Orkney.

The Pictish Broch

The broch itself is a key feature of the Brough of Gurness. Brochs are unique types of Iron Age roundhouses, found predominantly in Scotland, and they were used as defensive structures. The broch at Gurness is a tall, circular tower made of dry-stone masonry. It was likely several stories high in its prime, and it would have served as both a residence and a fortress, offering protection from invaders. The interior of the broch would have been divided into different living areas, with storage spaces and hearths for cooking and warmth.

Archaeological excavations on the island have uncovered numerous artifacts from the Pictish period, including tools, pottery, and jewelry, as well as evidence of a small community living there. These items suggest that the people who lived in the broch and its surrounding buildings were skilled craftsmen and traders, engaged in activities such as metalworking and pottery making.

The broch was probably built sometime between the 1st and 3rd centuries CE, during a period when the Picts, a Celtic-speaking people, inhabited much of northern Scotland. The broch served as a defensive stronghold in an era of political and military turbulence, as rival groups and tribes vied for control of the land.

Viking Influence

The Brough of Gurness also has significant Viking connections, as it was later inhabited by Norse settlers in the early Viking Age. By the 9th and 10th centuries, the Norse Vikings had begun to settle in Orkney, and their influence can be seen in the later structures built on the island. While the broch likely remained in use to some extent, the Vikings added their own buildings, including longhouses and storage huts, adapting the site to their needs.

Archaeological evidence from Viking-period structures includes stone-built dwellings, a hearth, and tools that are indicative of the Norse lifestyle. Vikings were known for their farming, trading, and raiding, and the Brough of Gurness would have been a perfect location for such activities, with its sheltered bay and strategic position.

The site also yielded evidence of Viking burial practices, with several burials found near the settlement. These graves contained items such as weapons and personal ornaments, which were likely meant to accompany the deceased in the afterlife. The blending of Viking and Pictish cultures at the site gives a unique perspective on the transition from the older Pictish ways of life to the new Norse influence that swept through Orkney during the Viking Age.

Decline and Abandonment

Over time, the Brough of Gurness and its settlement were abandoned, likely due to changes in the local economy, environmental factors, or shifts in population and trade routes. As the Norse settlers moved into other parts of Orkney, the site fell into disrepair. However, the stone structures and the artifacts left behind continue to offer rich archaeological evidence of life on the island during both the Pictish and Viking periods.

The broch itself eventually collapsed or was dismantled, leaving only its stone foundations visible today. The Viking buildings, likewise, have largely disappeared, but their remnants can still be traced through the surviving walls and foundations.

Visiting the Brough of Gurness

Today, the Brough of Gurness is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the broch and other structures. The site is maintained by Historic Scotland, and there are interpretive signs and displays that help explain the history of the settlement, the people who lived there, and the artifacts uncovered during excavations.

The Brough of Gurness provides a rare opportunity to walk among ancient structures that have stood for millennia, offering a unique connection to Orkney’s distant past. The site also offers beautiful views across the surrounding waters of Eynhallow Sound, and the causeway leading to the island gives a dramatic approach to the site. As with many of Orkney’s archaeological sites, visiting the Brough of Gurness allows you to connect with the island’s deep and complex history, where multiple cultures and traditions intersected over thousands of years.

The Brough of Gurness, with its combination of Pictish and Viking heritage, is a key piece in the puzzle of Orkney’s past, reflecting the region’s role as a meeting point for different peoples and cultures throughout history.

Maeshowe: A Neolithic Wonder in Orkney - Period: Neolithic with Viking graffiti from the 12th century

Located on the beautiful Orkney Islands in Scotland, Maeshowe is a fascinating testament to ancient history, architecture, and astronomy. This prehistoric chambered cairn and passage tomb, dating back to around 2800 BCE, is one of the most impressive and well-preserved Neolithic monuments in Europe. It offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore a place that has been shaped by both ancient cultures and the Vikings.

A Glimpse into Prehistoric Orkney

Maeshowe is more than just a burial site—it is a masterpiece of ancient engineering. The tomb is built with large stones, some weighing several tons, and features a long passage that leads to a central chamber. Visitors can marvel at the extraordinary stonework and sense the spiritual significance that the Neolithic people placed on this remarkable structure.

The tomb is aligned with the sun’s path, and during the winter solstice, sunlight shines directly into the tomb’s interior, illuminating the far wall. This precise alignment highlights the advanced astronomical knowledge of the people who built Maeshowe.

Viking Legacy: The Graffiti of Maeshowe

One of Maeshowe's most intriguing features is its Viking graffiti. In the 12th century, Norsemen, who had raided and settled in Orkney, broke into the tomb and left behind a series of runic inscriptions on the chamber walls. These inscriptions include names, humorous remarks, and even boasts about Viking exploits. The runes provide a rare and valuable glimpse into the Viking era in Orkney, offering an intriguing blend of prehistoric and Norse history.

Visiting Maeshowe

To experience Maeshowe, visitors must join one of the guided tours run by Historic Environment Scotland. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the site. You’ll also learn about the connection between Maeshowe and other ancient sites on Orkney, such as Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Stones of Stenness.

• Opening Hours: Open year-round, but hours may vary by season. It is best to check in advance.

• Location: Near Stenness, Mainland Orkney, just a short drive from Kirkwall.

• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with a short walk to the tomb from the visitor center.

• Admission: Tickets available at the Maeshowe Visitor Centre or online via the Historic Environment Scotland website.

• Skara Brae: A Neolithic village, offering insight into daily life thousands of years ago.

• Ring of Brodgar: A stunning stone circle with spiritual and ritual significance.

• Stones of Stenness: An ancient stone circle, possibly older than Stonehenge.

• Ness of Brodgar: A fascinating excavation site revealing more about Orkney’s Neolithic culture.

Why Visit Maeshowe?

Maeshowe is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone with an interest in ancient cultures. It’s not just about seeing a tomb; it’s about connecting with the ancient past and the people who once lived here. Whether you're drawn to its stunning engineering, its Viking graffiti, or its link to the stars, Maeshowe offers a truly unforgettable experience.

The Vikings in Orkney: A Legacy of Norse Rule

Introduction

The Orkney Islands, an archipelago off the northern coast of Scotland, played a crucial role in Viking history. From the late 8th century, Norse settlers arrived in Orkney, eventually transforming it into a powerful Norse earldom that lasted for over 600 years. Unlike other areas raided by Vikings, Orkney became a permanent Norse settlement, where Scandinavian culture thrived, influencing everything from language to law.

Today, Orkney remains one of the most Viking-rich regions in Britain, with archaeological sites, sagas, and traditions that continue to tell the story of its Norse past.

The Viking Arrival in Orkney

Vikings first arrived in Orkney around the late 8th century, likely using the islands as a staging ground for raids on Scotland, England, and Ireland. According to historical sources, King Harald Fairhair of Norway conquered Orkney in the 9th century, incorporating it into his expanding Norse kingdom.

Harald reportedly drove out the local Pictish rulers, replacing them with Norse jarls (earls) who governed under the Norwegian crown. This marked the beginning of Orkney as a Norse stronghold, ruled by a powerful aristocracy that would shape its history for centuries.

Life in Viking Orkney

Unlike the Viking warriors who raided other lands, those who settled in Orkney built permanent communities focused on farming, trade, and governance.

1. Viking Society & Governance

• Orkney was ruled by Norse jarls who had strong connections to Norway but enjoyed a level of autonomy.

• The Orkneyinga Saga, written in the 12th century, documents the lives, battles, and feuds of these Viking rulers.

• Laws and justice were maintained through the Thing, a Viking assembly where disputes were settled.

• Some jarls, like Thorfinn the Mighty (11th century), expanded Orkney’s power far beyond the islands, controlling parts of Scotland and Ireland.

Earls of Orkney (9th–12th Century)

• By the early 9th century, Orkney had become a Norse-controlled territory. The islands were ruled by Viking chieftains who later became known as the Earls of Orkney. The first known earl was Sigurd the Stout (who ruled from around 875–892), a descendant of the legendary Viking chieftain Rollo, who went on to found the Duchy of Normandy in France.

• The Earls of Orkney had significant power, controlling not only Orkney but also the Shetland Islands, parts of mainland Scotland, and the Hebrides. They even played a role in Viking expeditions to Ireland and the Faroe Islands.

• The most famous Viking earls include Sigurd the Stout, Håkon the Mighty, and Magnus Erlendsson (Saint Magnus), whose legacy is still commemorated in Orkney.

Norse Culture and Influence

• Norse settlers brought with them their language, laws, and customs. Old Norse became the dominant language of the islands, which influenced the development of the Orcadian dialect, which still retains some Norse elements today.

• Norse mythology and religion were also deeply embedded in Orcadian society. The Vikings built many stone monuments, burial mounds, and structures that can still be seen today.

• In conclusion, the Vikings left a profound and lasting mark on Orkney, shaping its history, culture, and identity.

2. Settlements & Daily Life

• Vikings in Orkney built longhouses, typically made of stone and turf, with a central hearth for heating and cooking.

• Excavations at sites like Brough of Birsay and Earl’s Bu in Orphir reveal evidence of these settlements.

• Life revolved around farming (barley, oats, cattle, sheep), fishing, and boatbuilding.

• Women played important roles in the household, managing farms and weaving wool into cloth.

3. Viking Trade & Economy

• Orkney was a major trading hub between Norway, Scotland, and Ireland.

• Vikings traded furs, wool, fish, walrus ivory, and even slaves.

• The islands were key for sea navigation, allowing Norse ships to travel to Greenland, Iceland, and even North America.

4. Norse Religion & Pagan Worship

• Early Vikings in Orkney followed the Old Norse religion, worshipping gods like Odin, Thor, and Freyja.

• Important sacrificial sites may have existed, though evidence is scarce.

• By the 11th century, Christianity spread, partly due to Norwegian influence.

• St. Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, built in the 12th century, reflects this shift—Earl Magnus was declared a saint after his murder in 1117.

The Fall of Norse Rule in Orkney

For centuries, Orkney remained under Norwegian control, but by the 13th century, its ties to Scotland grew stronger.

• In 1468, the islands were pledged as part of a dowry when the Norwegian king married off his daughter to James III of Scotland.

• Norway failed to pay the dowry, and Orkney was officially absorbed into Scotland in 1472.

• Despite this, Norse culture persisted for centuries, with the Orcadian dialect retaining many Old Norse words.

Conclusion

The Vikings shaped Orkney’s history, culture, and identity. Unlike in other parts of Britain, where Viking influence faded, Orkney remained Norse for centuries, leaving behind an enduring legacy. Whether exploring runestones, Norse settlements, or Viking sagas, Orkney offers one of the most authentic glimpses into Viking life outside of Scandinavia.

The Vikings at the Brough of Birsay

The Brough of Birsay, a small island off the northwest coast of Mainland Orkney, is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the Orkney Islands, particularly when it comes to Viking history. The site’s strategic location, perched at the edge of the mainland, made it an ideal place for the Vikings to establish a settlement and, later, a thriving Norse community.

The history of the Brough of Birsay dates back to the Viking Age, a time when Norse settlers had a significant influence over Orkney. The Vikings arrived in Orkney around the late 8th and early 9th centuries, and by the 10th century, they had established a powerful presence in the archipelago. The Brough of Birsay was not just a simple settlement; it served as a centre for political and religious activity during the Viking Age.

The Viking Settlement

Archaeological excavations on the Brough have revealed a rich and complex history, with evidence of Viking buildings, tools, and artifacts. The island was a key site for the Norse rulers of Orkney, and it’s believed that the Vikings used the Brough as a place of power. The island's position made it an important part of the Viking network across the North Sea. The Brough of Birsay likely functioned as an administrative centre or stronghold for the Viking Earls of Orkney.

During the Viking Age, the Brough’s strategic location made it the perfect site for a fortified settlement. The island is surrounded by steep cliffs, which provided natural protection, while a narrow causeway connected it to the mainland, allowing easy access to the rest of Orkney. Evidence suggests that the Vikings built a series of structures on the island, including homes and storage buildings, some of which were likely used to store weapons and food.

Religious Significance and the Church

One of the most intriguing discoveries on the Brough is the remains of a Norse church. The Vikings were known for their pagan beliefs, but with the spread of Christianity in the 11th century, the Norse settlers gradually converted to the new faith. The church on the Brough of Birsay is thought to have been built during the later Viking period, around the 11th century, during a time when Christianity was beginning to take root in Orkney. It is believed that the church was possibly built in honour of Saint Magnus, the Norse martyr who would become the patron saint of Orkney.

The church and its associated structures on the Brough of Birsay are some of the best-preserved Viking-era religious buildings in Orkney. The site is a unique blend of Norse paganism and Christianity, reflecting the cultural and religious transformation that took place in Orkney during the Viking Age.

The Viking Earls and Power

The Vikings established their dominance over Orkney by appointing powerful earls, who ruled the islands from the 9th to the 12th centuries. The Brough of Birsay, as a seat of power, likely played an important role in the politics of the time. The earls of Orkney were not only warriors but also local rulers, and the Brough may have served as a place where they made decisions regarding the governance of the islands and their relationships with the Kingdom of Norway, as well as other Viking territories.

The earls’ power was often cemented through their ability to control important sites like the Brough, which was strategically positioned for trade, communication, and military defence. The Brough of Birsay, with its natural defensive features, would have been a valuable stronghold for the earls to exert control over the surrounding lands.

Decline of the Viking Settlement

By the end of the 12th century, the influence of the Viking Earls began to wane, and Orkney came under the control of the Scottish Crown. As the political landscape shifted, the Brough of Birsay lost much of its importance as a centre of Viking power. The settlement gradually declined, and the island’s once-thriving community faded into history.

Today, the Brough of Birsay stands as a fascinating window into Viking life in Orkney. The site is a popular destination for visitors and scholars alike, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Norse settlers who once lived and ruled in the islands. Excavations continue on the island, providing new insights into the complex and layered history of Orkney during the Viking Age.

The Brough of Birsay serves as a powerful reminder of the Vikings’ lasting impact on Orkney. From their role as fierce raiders and settlers to their eventual integration into the Christian world, the Vikings on the Brough left a profound legacy that still resonates in the islands today.

Orkney doesn’t have large cities, but it features several important towns and villages worth exploring:

Kirkwall – The Heart of Orkney

The largest town and capital of Orkney is a bustling hub with a rich Norse heritage. Its name derives from the Old Norse 'Kirkjuvagr', meaning 'church bay'.

• St. Magnus Cathedral – a magnificent red sandstone cathedral dating back to the 12th century.

• Earl's Palace & Bishop’s Palace – explore these impressive ruins just next to the cathedral.

• Orkney Museum – located in Tankerness House, showcasing the islands’ heritage.

• Shopping & Local Crafts – browse unique gifts and local artisan work.

Stromness – Orkney’s Historic Port Town

The second-largest settlement in Orkney, boasts a distinctive character with its narrow, winding flagstone streets and harbour front buildings. Historically a significant port for the Hudson's Bay Company and fishing fleets, it retains a strong maritime atmosphere.

• Stromness Museum – maritime history, natural science, and Arctic exploration.

• Skara Brae - a remarkably preserved Neolithic village, older than the Egyptian pyramids. Hidden under sand for centuries, it offers a rare glimpse into life 5,000 years ago.

• Narrow Flagstone Streets – charming lanes lined with 18th-century houses.

• Ferry Port – main arrival point from Scrabster on mainland Scotland.

Stenness – Orkney's Ancient Henge with Standing Stones

Orkney's ancient heartland, home to a significant Neolithic henge with its iconic standing stones. This evocative site whispers tales of prehistoric rituals and offers breathtaking views across the lochs of Harray and Stenness.

• Famous for its Neolithic sites, including the Ring of Brodgar and Stones of Stenness.

• A must-visit for archaeology enthusiasts.

• Offers stunning views of Orkney’s rugged landscapes.

Birsay - Orkney's Norse Power Centre and Coastal Village

Orkney's historical Norse power centre, boasting significant Viking settlements and the ruins of the Earl's Palace. This coastal parish offers a glimpse into Orkney's past as a seat of power and a place of early Christian influence.

• Known for its Brough of Birsay, an ancient Norse settlement.

• Visit the Earl’s Palace, a historic ruin from the 16th century.

• Ideal for coastal walks and birdwatching.

Other Notable Places

• Finstown – a small village in the West Mainland, ideal for walking and birdwatching.

• Dounby – a central village popular during the agricultural Dounby Show.

• Burray & South Ronaldsay – connected by causeways, known for beaches and the Italian Chapel.

Enjoy Nature & Wildlife

• Bird Watching – RSPB reserves at Marwick Head and Hoy.

• Seal & Puffin Watching – especially in spring and summer.

• Whale Spotting – take a wildlife cruise for a chance to see orcas or dolphins.

Outdoor Adventures

• Cycling Routes – scenic trails across flat landscapes and open views.

• Walking Trails – from coastal walks like Yesnaby Cliffs to the cliffs of Hoy.

• Diving – the Scapa Flow is a world-famous diving site with historic WWI shipwrecks.

Culture, Food & Events

• Orkney Folk Festival (May) – traditional and contemporary music.

• St Magnus International Festival (June) – arts and classical music.

• Local Produce – enjoy fresh seafood, Orkney cheese, Highland Park whisky, and more.

Getting Around Orkney

• Ferries & Inter-Island Flights – travel between islands via Orkney Ferries or the world’s shortest scheduled flight (Westray to Papa Westray).

• Car Rentals, Cycling, and Buses – all available for exploring at your pace.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re discovering ancient mysteries, chasing the Northern Lights, or enjoying the slow island pace, Orkney offers something special in every season.

Official Orkney Tourism – Orkney.com

Major Settlements in Orkney