Kirkwall's Top Sights

If you're visiting Orkney, you can't miss Kirkwall.

It's a place where ancient history, unique culture, and good food and coffee come together.

Of course, you can still get good food at the Barrier View Cafe too!

Whether you're interested in exploring Viking heritage, sipping world-famous whisky, or simply enjoying the relaxed pace of island life, Kirkwall has something for everyone.To help you make the most of your time, I've put together this comprehensive guide to the top things to see and do in Kirkwall. Although, often the best things happen when you don't visit and try to tick things off a list. Sometimes, it's about just visiting, walking around and taking it all in.

Here are my top recommendations to ensure your visit to Kirkwall is unforgettable!

1. St. Magnus Cathedral: The ‘Light of the North’

Why Visit?

A striking example of Norse architecture. St Magnus cathedral is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Scotland. To add to it, it's also a peaceful and awe-inspiring space to reflect on Orkney's past.

What to Expect:

St. Magnus Cathedral is known as the "Light of the North" for good reason. This towering red sandstone building has been a beacon for travelers since it was built in the 12th century. Founded by Earl Rognvald to honor his uncle, St. Magnus, this stunning cathedral is filled with beautiful stone carvings, vaulted ceilings, and historical artifacts.

Sometimes, I just love to head in there and sit and take it all in, it's such a peaceful place.

Highlights:

• Explore the intricately carved tombstones and memorials inside the cathedral.
• Discover the gorgeous windows - particular the Rose Window.
• Don’t miss the chance to climb the tower for panoramic views of Kirkwall!

Tip: Look out for special exhibitions or events taking place during your visit.

2. The Orkney Museum: A Journey Through Time

Why Visit?

This is perfect for history buffs and families alike. What's more, it's Free entry, with plenty of interactive displays. The museum is located just steps from St. Magnus Cathedral, so you can easily tick both off your list pretty quickly.

What to Expect:

The Orkney Museum offers a deep dive into the rich history of the islands, spanning from the Stone Age to the present day. Housed in the historic Tankerness House, the museum's exhibits are well laid out, making it easy to travel through thousands of years of Orkney history in just a few hours.

Must-See Exhibits:

• Stone Age relics, including tools, jewelry, and pottery.
• Viking-era artifacts, showcasing Orkney’s Norse heritage
• Pictish carvings and medieval treasures.

Bonus: After exploring the museum, take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Tankerness House Gardens —a peaceful oasis in the heart of town. You could grab an ice cream (weather dependent) from the shop 'the Daily Scoop' and sit on one of the secluded seats and enjoy a little bit of quiet time.

3. Earl's and Bishop's Palaces: Ruins of Orkney's Nobility

Why Visit?

Another unique piece of history! Here you can step back in time and explore the ruins of Orkney’s former nobility. It's a great spot for history lovers and photographers. And given it's proximity to both the Cathedral and the museum, it's so easy to vist.

What to Expect:

Adjacent to St. Magnus Cathedral, the Earl’s Palace and Bishop’s Palace offer a glimpse into Orkney’s medieval past.

The Earl’s Palace, built in the 1600s by Earl Patrick Stewart, is considered one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland.

Next door, the Bishop’s Palace is even older, dating back to the 12th century, and was once home to the bishops of Orkney.

What to Explore:

• Walk through the grand halls and spiral staircases of the Earl’s Palace.
• Marvel at the views from the tower of the Bishop’s Palace.
• Learn about the turbulent history of Orkney’s earls and bishops.

Top Tip: Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

4. Highland Park Distillery: A Whisky Lover’s Dream

Why Visit?

Ok, this is a little outside of Kirkwall's city centre, but this is absolutely a must visit. The number of visitors taking pictures as I drive to and from the workshop demonstrates this. Here you can discover one of Scotland’s oldest and most renowned whisky distilleries. The tour is relaxed but information and you can learn about the traditional methods of whisky production. Once the tour has been completed, you can enjoy tastings of their award-winning single malts. 

What to Expect:

If you love whisky (or even if you’re just whisky-curious), a visit to Highland Park Distillery is a must.

Founded in 1798, Highland Park is one of the world’s most northern distilleries and has earned a reputation for producing some of Scotland's finest peated whiskies.

The distillery is known for its attention to detail, from hand-turning the malt to using traditional peat from Orkney.

What You’ll Learn:

• The whisky-making process, from malting and fermenting to distillation and maturation.
• How Orkney’s climate and ingredients create the distinctive Highland Park flavor.
• The history of the distillery, including tales of whisky smuggling in Orkney!

Don’t Miss: The chance to sample Highland Park’s unique range of whiskies at the end of the tour. You’ll be surprised at how different each dram tastes!

5. Shopping on Albert Street: Local Crafts and Souvenirs

Why Visit?

Albert Street is a neat little shopping street to find unique, locally-made goods you won’t get anywhere else. You can browse cozy shops and boutiques for the perfect souvenir. And even grab a brew and a bite at one of the cafes and restaurants.

What to Expect:

Albert Street is Kirkwall’s main shopping street, and it’s full of local character. Whether you’re after Orkney knitwear, hand-crafted Orkney jewelry or delicious local foods, you’ll find it here.

Local Favorites:

• Orkney Fudge and Cheese: Treat yourself to Orkney’s famous fudge or a selection of locally-produced cheeses.
• Jewelry and Crafts: Many local shops feature jewelry inspired by Orkney’s landscapes and history. Pieces often include elements like runes, sea glass, and Celtic designs.
• Orkney Knitwear: Pick up a cozy, hand-knitted sweater or scarf to remember your trip by.

Insider Tip: Stop in at a café for a coffee and a soup with bere bannock—a local delicacy.

6. Scapa Beach: Orkney’s Coastal Beauty

Why Visit?

If you're visiting Highland Park, you can easily nip over to Scapa beach. This can be done either by car, or enjoying a tranquil walk along the crantit trail. It's one of my favourite beaches. There's breathtaking views of Scapa Flow and it's a a serene spot for a walk, picnic, or beachcombing. There's plenty of sea glass to be had here.

It's also rich in World War history with a museum highlighting the sinking of the Royal Oak.

What to Expect:

Scapa Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline with views across Scapa Flow, a body of water that played a crucial role in both World Wars. The beach is perfect for a peaceful stroll. You may even spot a beautiful dolphin, whale or other fantastic example of Orcadian nature.

Things to Do:

• Take a quiet walk along the shore, soaking up the stunning views.-
• Bring a blanket and enjoy a beach picnic while watching the waves (the blanket is either to keep you warm, or your sandwiches sand free)
• Discover the wartime history of Scapa Flow, one of the most important naval bases in the UK during WWI and WWII.

Bonus: If you’re a history buff, look out for guided tours that delve into Scapa Flow’s fascinating wartime stories.

7. Local Events and Festivals: Experience Orkney’s Culture

Why Visit?

There's no better way to experience a local culture than by delving into a festival. It's a great way to experience the local culture and traditions. You can Enjoy music, arts, and crafts at one of Orkney’s famous festivals.

Oh, and if you are here at the right time, watch unique, historical events like the Ba' Game.

The Ba'

This traditional Orkney game, played on Christmas and New Year's Day, is a centuries-old tradition in Kirkwall. The streets are closed off, and teams (Uppies and Doonies) compete to push a leather ball to their side of the town—an exhilarating spectacle! It's incredible and captivating!

Don't neccessarily try and understand it, just watch it and embrace it.

Local Tip: Check the local event calendar for other smaller festivals and fairs happening throughout the year, offering opportunities to sample local crafts, music, and food. Throughout the year, there is (and this isn't an exhaustive list)

• The St Magnus Festival
• Nature Festival
• Science Festival
• Storytelling Festival

There's also regular parades by the Kirkwall City Pipe Band, so keep an eye out for when those are occuring.

Kirkwall, with its mix of ancient history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty, is an essential stop on any Orkney adventure.

From wandering through the halls of medieval palaces to sipping whisky in one of Scotland's most famous distilleries, there’s something to enchant every type of traveler.

And don’t forget to take home a piece of Orkney’s magic—whether it's a handmade keepsake from one of the local jewelry stores or simply the memory of Scapa’s windswept shores.

Whatever you choose, Kirkwall is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Enjoy your trip to Orkney—may the winds guide you back someday!