1 Day in Orkney
If you're keen to visit Orkney, but don't neccessarily have the time, this could be the guide for you.
You could be travelling the NC500 and fancy a day trip, or visiting Scotland and really want to see some of the sights and sites!
From ancient wonders to breathtaking coastal landscapes, here’s how to make the most of a single day in Orkney.
Travel Info
There are 2 ferries that arrive into Orkney on a daily basis. And both are useful for this. The Pentland Ferry arrives into St Margarets Hope, whilst Northlink Ferries arrives in Stromness. Both are good options, and allow you plenty of time to see all these destinations.
If you are coming off a cruise ship - your destination might be Kirkwall.
There is also the ferry from Aberdeen, but that would not neccessarily be feasilble if your plan is just 1 day.
Morning: Step Back in Time at Skara Brae
I mean, is there anywhere else to start?
Start your day with a visit to Skara Brae, one of Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic settlements.
This prehistoric village, older than the Pyramids of Giza, offers a fascinating glimpse into life 5,000 years ago. Wander through the remarkably intact stone houses, peer into ancient hearths, and imagine the lives of Orkney’s earliest inhabitants.
If you want to, you can visit Skaill House too and perhaps grabbing delicious seafood fro Loki's seafood shack.
Mid-Morning: Explore the Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness
A short drive from Skara Brae will take you to the Ring of Brodgar, a majestic Neolithic stone circle that rivals Stonehenge in both grandeur and mystery.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site, part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and photographers alike. Nearby, the Standing Stones of Stenness, one of the oldest henge monuments in Britain, adds to the magic of this ancient landscape.
You may be so inspired by this that the Standing Stones Collection is a must buy.
Tip: There are no public toilets near the Ring of Brodgar. The nearest ones are in Stenness. So perhaps go before you leave Skara Brae.
Lunch: Enjoy Local Flavours and attractions in Kirkwall
After a morning of exploring, head to Kirkwall for some snacks and sightseeing.
The town is home to several fantastic cafés and restaurants serving fresh local produce. You could perhaps go to one of the fish and chips shops for a pattie, or Archive Coffee for some fantastic lunch.
Once your tummies are full, it's time to see a little bit more of Kirkwall has to offer. There are lots of things to do in Kirkwall.
If you are visiting in summer, you could even skip the main street and head to Scapa Beach. There's a food trailer here called Some Good Cuppa, so you could grab a coffee and a cake and stroll along the beach. Of course, other beaches are available.
Afternoon: Marvel at St Magnus Cathedral and Orkney’s Viking Heritage
While in Kirkwall, make sure to visit St Magnus Cathedral, a stunning red sandstone structure dating back to the 12th century. It is stunning Rose Window that serves as the inspiriation for my Rose Window Collection.
Often referred to as the ‘Light of the North’, this awe-inspiring cathedral is a testament to Orkney’s Viking past.
Nearby, the Earl’s Palace and Bishop’s Palace provide further insight into Orkney’s medieval history.
Afternoon: The Italian Chapel
Making a stop at the Italian Chapel is a must. It's a beautifully decorated place of worship built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II. Even though my workshop is just across the barrier, visiting the Italian Chapel still takes my breath away. The love story that surrounds the Italian Chapel is how I came to create the Heart of the Chapel Collection.
The chapel’s intricate interior and poignant history make it a truly unique attraction.
This also allows you to view a little bit more World War history with the Churchill Barriers.
Tip: Need a pick me up? Head to the Barrier Cafe and grab a coffee and cake to go (oh and look at some of my stunning Orkney jewellery.
Final Thoughts
That should be enough for a day trip to Orkney and leave you wanting more. This ensures you drive past a lot of the wonderful views that also make Orkney so special. This is of course, just a taster, and you might want to visit other places if you are more fascinated by history, or nature. But this should definitely whet your appetite to visit again.
This is of course, just a taster, and you might want to visit other places if you are more fascinated by history, or nature.
FAQ
Is it worth going to Orkney for the day?
Yes! Absolutely! You'll be able to visit some of most visited sites to Orkney that draw people back year after year. Sort of like Orkney Islands Big 5. That being said, you might find that you'll want to see more after visiting for just the day.
Do I need a car on Orkney?
Buses are great on Orkney - and you can visit all of the attractions mentioned above using 1 or 2 buses. The X1 is great for this. And you can just ask the driver to drop you off anywhere on the route. That being said, with just a day, it might be better to get a car for ease (and being able to get back to the ferry on time!)
What is the shortest crossing to Orkney?
The Pentland ferry from Gill's Bay to St Margaret's Hope is the shortest crossing in terms of time.