Orkney Attractions

A large page, as there is quite a bit to see on Orkney! See also the different categories of attractions in the left menu of this page.

Barnhouse Settlement   A Neolithic village located on the shores of Loch Harray beside the Stones of Stennes circle and just a short distance from the Ring of Brogar. The village was inhabited from about 3200 BCE, suggesting that this may posssibly have been where the builders of Maes Howe, Brogar, and Stenness lived. There are several different sizes of hut, but nothing beyond the foundations remain. Stenness, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Park at the Stones of Stenness on the B9055 and follow a short path to the settlement. Website: Barnhouse Settlement Historic Scotland OS HY307127 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Birsay Earl's Palace   Remains of a 16th century residence on the shores of Birsay Bay, built by Earl Robert Stewart. Extensive walls still stand, though not to any great height. Earl Robert was known for his harsh treatment of his people, and may have used forced labour to build his palace. The house was constructed around a courtyard, and several ranges of buildings around the inner yard can still be seen. The location is as impressive as the palace itself; the views across to the Brough of Birsay are superb. Birsay, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Historic Property Heritage Rating:   ? Location: In Birsay village, off the A966. Ample parking on the side of the roadway. Website: Birsay Earl's Palace Phone: 01856 721205 Historic Scotland OS HY 248 277 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Birsay Moors RSPB    RSPB nature reserve. Moorland habitat for Arctic skuas, hen harriers, red-throated divers, and - on the ground - Orkney voles. Best in summer. nr Finstown, Finstown, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Countryside Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Off the A966 5 miles north of Finstown. Website: Birsay Moors RSPB Phone: 01856 850176 RSPB OS HY349244 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Bishop’s Palace, Kirkwall   The Bishop's Palace is a 12th century hall house, with a tower built in the mid 1500's. You can ascend the tower for wonderful views of St Magnus Cathedral and Kirkwall. Directly opposite is the 17th century Earl's Palace. Kirkwall, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland, KW15 1PD Attraction Type: Historic Property Heritage Rating:   ? Location: In the centre of Kirkwall, opposite St Magnus Cathedral. Tickets from the Earl's Palace. Website: Bishop’s Palace, Kirkwall Phone: 01856 871 918 Historic Scotland Location map OS HY448 108 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Blackhammer Chambered Tomb   A Neolithic chambered cairn dating to approximately 2500 BCE. Entry to the interior reveals an elongated corbeled chamber with upright partitions. The interior is unusuallly well lit due to plexiglass skylights inserted in the roof. Tratland, Rousay, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: On the B9064 1 mile west of the Trumland ferry landing. Signposted. Free entry. Website: Blackhammer Chambered Tomb Historic Scotland OS HY414276 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Broch of Gurness   One of the finest brochs in Scotland, Gurness stands on the shore looking across to Rousay. The very extensive remains include striking earth ramparts and the remains of several Iron Age buildings. Aikerness, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: NW Kirkwall, off the A966 Website: Broch of Gurness Phone: 0831 579478 Historic Scotland Details of Broch of Gurness OS HY 381268 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Brodgar RSPB    RSPB nature reserve located in a spectacular setting beside the Ring of Brodgar stone circle. This reserve is best for seeing Orkney waders, curlews, snipe, lapwings, dunlins, redshanks and oystercatchers. Best in summer. Stenness, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Countryside Heritage Rating:   ? Location: On the B9055 2 miles north of Stenness. The best place to park is at the Ring of Brogar parking lot. Website: Brodgar RSPB Phone: 01856 850176 RSPB OS HY293134 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Brough of Birsay   Remains of Pictish and Norse settlements in a spectacular coastal setting. Pict remains are houses and metalworking debris. Norse remains are of farmsteads, domestic buildings and the Norse cathedral dating from the early 12th century. Graves have been unearthed on the island. Museum at the site. Brough Head, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Tidal island offshore from northwestern point of Mainland, Orkney. Reached at low tide by walking across a causeway. (Ask at local TIC in Stromness or Kirkwall for tide times, or at the village shop in Birsay.) Website: Brough of Birsay Historic Scotland Details of Brough of Birsay - Photos of Brough of Birsay OS HY239284 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Brough of Deerness   The remains of a 10th century chapel in a spectacular headland setting on the eastern tip of Deerness. Some debate exists whether the site is that of a Norse settlement, early Christian monastery, or Iron Age promontory fort. The Brough has been a traditional site of pilgrimage for centuries. The setting could hardly be more spectacular; the Brough is accessible only by way of a steep path up the side of the Brough from Little Burrageo, but your exertion is well rewarded with fabulous views and the company of seabirds by the hundreds. Deerness, Mull Head, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Church Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Parking lot for Mull Head nature reserve, off a minor road signposted from the B9050. The path from the parking lot follows the coast to the Brough of Deerness. OS HY595088 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Churchill Barriers   One of the great feats of civil engineering in history; the Churchill Barriers are a series of causeways linking South Ronaldsay to Mainland. They were erected during World War II to prevent the passage of German submarines into Scapa Flow, used as a naval base by the British. The causeways contain a total of half a million cubic yards of rock and over 300,000 tons of concrete. St Margaret's Hope, South Ronaldsay, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Historic Property Heritage Rating:   ? Location: The barriers are located along the A961 road between St Margaret's Hope and Mainland. There are numerous parking spots along the way. OS ND480995 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Click Mill    Click Mill is the surviving horizontal water mill on Orkney. The mill has been restored to full working order. This style of horizontal mill wheel was quite common in Shetland and Isle of Lewis as well as Orkney. Access to the site can be muddy, so good waterproof walking shoes are recommended. Click Mill is in the care of Historic Scotland. Dounby, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Historic Property Heritage Rating:   ? Location: On the B905 between Dounby and Evie Website: Click Mill Phone: 01856 841815 Historic Scotland OS HY325228 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Copinsay RSPB    Uninhabited island famous for its large colonies of kittiwakes, guillemots and razorbills. Fulmars, and puffins also breed along the cliffs of Copinsay. Copinsay, Isle of Copinsay, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Countryside Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Island is 2 miles east of Mainland. Accessible by boat from Skaill (day trips) Website: Copinsay RSPB Phone: 01856 850176 RSPB OS HY583039 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Corrigall Farm Museum    Museum of farming and rural life with group of stone, 18th century buildings restored to mid-19th century appearance. Flagstone roofs that are heather thatched and turfed. Exhibitions in the buildings. Harray, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland, KW17 2LQ Attraction Type: Museum Heritage Rating:   ? Location: 14 m (22.5 km) NW Kirkwall, by A965 and A986 Website: Corrigall Farm Museum Location map OS HY317 188 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Cottascarth and Rendall Moss RSPB    RSPB nature reserve. Fantastic for breeding curlews, and a good spot to see hen harriers, merlins and short-eared owls. Finstown, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotlans Attraction Type: Countryside Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Off the A966 3.5 miles north of Finstown Website: Cottascarth and Rendall Moss RSPB Phone: 01856 850176 RSPB OS HY375183 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Cubbie Row’s Castle    One of the earliest stone castles to survive in Scotland. Built circa 1145 by a Norseman. Small rectangular tower with ruined St. Mary's Chapel of late 12th century. Wyre, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Castle Heritage Rating:   ? Location: ferry from Kirkwall to island of Wyre; .5 m from pier Website: Cubbie Row’s Castle Phone: 01856 841 815 Historic Scotland OS HY442 264 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Cuween Hill Chambered Cairn   A Neolithic chambered tomb with four cells-once contained bones of men, dogs and oxen. Access on hands and knees. Finstown, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: on A965 Website: Cuween Hill Chambered Cairn Historic Scotland OS HY 364 128 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Dwarfie Stane    The Dwarfie Stane is a fascinating 5000 year old block of red sandstone which has been cut to create a burial chamber. The stane lies in a valley near the northern tip of Hoy, between Rackwick and Quoyness. The stane is possibly the only British example of a rock-cut tomb. Hoy, Quoyness, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Near the north end of Hoy, between Quoyness and Rackwick Website: Dwarfie Stane Phone: 01856 811 397 Historic Scotland OS HY244005 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Earl's Palace   The extensive remains of one of the finest examples of post-medieval architecture in Scotland, located beside the Cathedral and opposite the old Bishop's Palace. The Earl's Palace was built by Earl Patrick Stewart in 1600, using forced labour to create a grand residence in French Renaissance style. Stewart was executed in 1615 and the palace passed to the Bishops of Orkney. A must see for visitors to Orkney! Kirkwall, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland, KW15 1PD Attraction Type: Historic Property Heritage Rating:   ? Location: In the centre of Kirkwall opposite St Magnus Cathedral. Free parking at Kirkwall harbour (5 minutes walk) Website: Earl's Palace Phone: 01856 871 918 Historic Scotland Location map OS HY448 108 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Eynhallow Church    Ruins of 12th century church and domestic buildings. Eynhallow, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Church Heritage Rating:   ? Location: On the island of Eynhallow; can be reached only by boat from Mainland or Rousay. Website: Eynhallow Church Historic Scotland OS HY359289 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Grain Earth-House    Iron Age earth-house with underground chamber supported on stone pillars. Kirkwall, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: 1 m (1.6 km) NW Kirkwall, A965 Website: Grain Earth-House Historic Scotland OS HY442117 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Hackness Martello Tower    An impressive early 19th century defensive tower and surrounding bastions, built to defend the island of Hoy against attacks by the French and American privateers. The garrison barracks have been tecreated to give an impression of what life was like for soldiers stationed here. Hackness Martello Tower looks across Longhope Sound to Orkney Mainland and Scapa Flow. Hoy, Hackness, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland, KW16 3PQ Attraction Type: Historic Property Heritage Rating:   ? Location: At Hackness, in the south west corner of Hoy, west of Longhope. Access from Houton Ferry terminal to Hoy. Website: Hackness Martello Tower Historic Scotland Location map OS ND330909 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Holm of Papa Westray Chambered Cairn    Massive tomb. Long narrow chamber with 14 cells and wall engravings. Holm of Papa Westray, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Website: Holm of Papa Westray Chambered Cairn Historic Scotland OS HY509518 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Italian Chapel   A shrine built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII, using a quonset hut and salvaged scraps of metal and wood. The chapel is a moving example of the marriage of faith and art under trying circumstances. The interior is beautifully painted and contains lovely ironwork and trompe l'oeil artwork. Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Church Heritage Rating:   ? Location: on A961 OS HY480 000 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Kirbuster Museum   An unrestored traditional Orkney longhouse, dating to at least the 16th century. A stone bed, tradtional household furnishings, farm implements, and artefacts of daily life provide a fascinating glimpse of daily life in Orkney over the past centuries. A central hearth, burning peat, provides warmth for the longhouse, and there is a lovely Victorian garden outside. Recommended. Birsay, Kirbuster, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Museum Heritage Rating:   ? Location: On a minor road at Kirbuster, just south of Birsay Website: Kirbuster Museum Phone: 01856 772268 Fax: 01856 871560 Orkney Museums and Heritage OS HY283254 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Kitchener Memorial   In 1916 the HMS Hampshire sank off Marwick Head in mysterious circumstances. Among those who lost their lives was Lord Kitchener, minister of war at that time. Kitchener was said to be on a secret mission to Russia. A memorial was erected in honour of Kitchener and the others who lost their lives aboard the Hampshire. No access to the memorial itself, but the walks along the cliffs are spectacular. Marwick Head is also an RSPB nature reserve, home to razorbills, kittiwakes, guillemots and an occassional puffin. Marwick Head, Birsay, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Historic Property Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Parking in a small parking lot at the bottom of the hill, off the minor road from Birsay. OS HY228251 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Knap of Howar    Two Neolithic standing stone houses with stone cupboards and stalls. Papa Westray, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Website: Knap of Howar Historic Scotland OS HY483518 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Knowe Of Yarso Chambered Cairn    Knowe of Yarso is a Neolithic chambered cairn on the south coast of Rousay island, facing across the straits to the Broch of Gurness on Orkney Mainland. The oval cairn is made up of concentric walls around a central chamber divided into three separate compartments. Rousay, Frotoft, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: 3 miles west of the Rousay ferry terminal, on the north side of the B9064. Take the regular Tingwall ferry service to Rousay from Orkney Mainland. Website: Knowe Of Yarso Chambered Cairn Historic Scotland OS HY404279 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Links of Noltland    The Links of Noltland is an an area of sand dunes at the north end of Westray, within which are a rich array of prehistoric sites. The sand has helped to preserve the archaeological remains, which are only now being carefully excavated and catalogued. Westray, Pierowall, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: On the north coast of the island of Westray. Take the regular ferry service from Kirkwall Website: Links of Noltland Historic Scotland OS HY429494 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Longaglebe Geo   A path leads from a small parking area, along the cliffs above a narrow geo, or inlet, where a multitude of birds nest. The path joins the coastal walk towards Birsay to the east, or you can descend to the rocks along the shore and look for seabirds and seals. The rock formations are wonderful and the going is quite easy. Longaglebe, Birsay, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Countryside Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Off a minor road just east of Birsay. The location is noted on OS maps as Whitaloo Point. OS HY261286 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Maes Howe Chambered Cairn   The finest megalithic tomb in the British Isles, consisting of a large Neolithic mound, 26ft high, 115ft in diameter, encircled by a ditch, covering a stone-built 39 ft passage leading to large burial chamber with 2 cells. The tomb contains the richest collection of Viking runes in the UK. Finstown, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: 9 miles west of Kirkwall, on the A965 Website: Maes Howe Chambered Cairn Phone: 01856 761 606 Historic Scotland Details of Maes Howe Chambered Cairn OS HY318128 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Marwick Head RSPB   RSPB nature reserve featuring thousands of breeding seabirds in a clifftop location. The views are spectacular. Also on Marwick Head is the Kitchener Memorial, a tower dedicated to the memory of Lord Kitchener who was killed in the wreck of the HMS Hampshire off this coast in 1916. Birsay, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Countryside Heritage Rating:   ? Location: On a minor road 11 miles north of Stromness at Birsay. Website: Marwick Head RSPB Phone: 01856 850176 RSPB OS HY223248 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Midhowe Broch   One of the finest Iron Age brochs in Scotland, located in a superb coastal location directly beside the chambered cairn of Midhowe. The central building measures 30 feet in diameter, with walls still standing to a height of 14 feet. This is easily one ofg the most impressive sites on Orkney, and well worth the journey to Rousay. A signposted path leads from the broch to Midhowe Chambered Cairn and past numerous other historic buildings along the shore. Westness, Rousay, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Parking on the B9064 coastal road a few miles west of the ferry terminal. Well signposted, and easily visible from the parking lot. Walk downhill 5 minutes - good footwear advised. Free entry. Website: Midhowe Broch Historic Scotland OS HY372306 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Midhowe Chambered Cairn   A huge Neolithic chambered tomb in an oval mound with 25 stalls. Midhowe is protected by a modern building, which has walkways over the tomb, proviing excellent views down into the chambers. Rousay, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Website: Midhowe Chambered Cairn Historic Scotland OS HY372304 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Mine Howe   Access by steep stone steps to underground chamber, then another set of steps to a further underground chamber. Archaeologists date it from 200BC to 500AD. Its use is uncertain but thought to be religious. Bones, pottery and other artifacts were found in the chamber. Tankerness, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: off A960 on minor road Website: Mine Howe OS HY512058 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Mull Head   A nature reserve extending to over 200 acres, taking in coastal grassland, heather moorland, spectacular cliffs and coastal scenery. Paths through the reserve provide for circular walks ranging from 4-8 miles. From the parking lot the path passes The Gloup, a partly collapsed sea cave, or blowhole, and follows the coast to the Brough of Birsay with its early Christian monastery. The Mull features a wide variety of seabirds, and seals and otters are frequent sights. The walk can be extended to visit the Covenanter's Memorial, dedicated to the memory of 200 Covenanters who lost their lives in a shipwreck here in 1697. Deerness, Deerness, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Countryside Heritage Rating:   ? Location: At the end of a minor road signposted from the B9050. OS HY589092 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Noltland Castle    Ruined Z-plan tower of mid 1500's. Large number of gun loops and impressive staircase. Pierowall, Westray, Orkney, HIghlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Castle Heritage Rating:   ? Location: 1m W Pierowall village Website: Noltland Castle Historic Scotland OS HY429 488 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Noup Cliffs    Probably the best known RSPB reserve on Orkney - an absolute paradise for bird lovers. Noup Cliffs is the largest seabird colony in Orkney, featuring Guillemots, kittiwakes, razorbills, fulmars, and puffins. Free entry, but donation requested. Best in summer. Noup, Pierowall, Westray, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Countryside Heritage Rating:   ? Location: By road from Pierowall to Noltland Castle, then to Noup Hill, follow the road to Noup Lighthouse, where there is a parking area. Email: orkney@rspb.org.uk Phone: 01856 850176 RSPB OS HY392499 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Orphir Round Church   Remains of only surviving medieval circular church in Scotland, built in first half of 12th century. Dedicated to St. Nicholas. Orphir, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Church Heritage Rating:   ? Location: At Orphir, 8 miles SW Kirkwall Website: Orphir Round Church Historic Scotland Details of Orphir Round Church OS HY335043 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Pierowall Church    A ruined and roofless medieval church looking out to sea. The major historic interest here are a small collection of finely carved medieval tombstones. The church, also known as Lady Kirk, was built in the 13th century, but much of what we can see today is the result of rebuilding in the 17th century. The simple layout consists of a rectagular nave and chancel angled slightly off-centre towards the south. The church is built of rubble with freestone dressing, and the nave is 14.5 metres long and just over 6 metres wide. The oldest stonework is set in clay, while the newer work uses lime mortar. The church was in use as the parish church of Pierowall until sometime after 1879. Pierowall, Westray, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Church Heritage Rating:   ? Location: In Pierowall village, on Westray island. Reached via regular ferry service from Kirkwall. Website: Pierowall Church Historic Scotland OS HY439488 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Quoyness Chambered Cairn    Megalithic tomb with retaining walls, passage, main chamber and cells. Neolithic. Sandsay, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Website: Quoyness Chambered Cairn Historic Scotland OS HY676378 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Rendall Doocot   A striking doocot (dovecote) which has been restored. The design is best described as similar to a wedding cake, rising in concentric layers. The doocot is still used by local birds, so please be careful not to alarm the birds when approaching the building. Hall of Rendall, Rendall, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Historic Property Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Down a small lane, accessed off the A966. The doocot is signposted and there is a small parking area, with a very short walk to the doocot. OS HY422000 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Rennibister Earth-House   Access by trap door and ladder down into a chamber that has 5 wall recesses and an entrance passage. Human bones were found here. The earth house is thought to be of Iron Age date, and bears a close resemblance to nearby Grain Earth House. Finstown, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: On the A965, western Mainland, situated behind a farmhouse Website: Rennibister Earth-House Historic Scotland OS HY397127 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Ring of Brodgar   A late Neolithic circle of 27 upright stones (originally 60 stones) with an enclosing ditch. Located a short distance from the Stenness Standing Stones. The location above two lochs is superb. Stenness, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: 5 miles east of Stromness, on the B9055 Website: Ring of Brodgar Historic Scotland Details of Ring of Brodgar - Photos of Ring of Brodgar OS HY294134 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Skaill House   Historic 17th century mansion a short distance from Skara Brae. The house was first built for Bishop George Graham around 1620, but has been the family home of the Laird’s of Skaill since. Among the prize posessions is Captain Cook's dinner service, a gift to the family by the explorer. There is history wherever you look at Skaill; the house was built partly on a Norse burial ground, and Bronze Age mounds surround the property. The house is said to be haunted by friendly spirits. Breckness Estate, Sandwick, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland, KW16 3LR Attraction Type: Historic House Heritage Rating:   ? Location: In Sandwick, off the B9056. Joint parking area with Skara Brae, and a joint ticket for both attractions is available. Website: Skaill House Email: info@skaillhouse.com Phone: 01856 841 501 Fax: 01856 841668 Location map OS HY235001 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village   Best preserved group of Stone Age (main periods of settlement between 3100-2500BC) houses in western Europe. Long covered by sand, they were uncovered by a storm. The houses, linked by covered passageways, contain stone furniture. Exhibition, museum. Skaill, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: on B9056 NW Kirkwall Website: Skara Brae Prehistoric Village Phone: 01856 841 815 Historic Scotland Details of Skara Brae Prehistoric Village - Photos of Skara Brae Prehistoric Village OS HY231187 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Skiba Geo   A lovely walk along some of the finest coastline in Orkney (and that's saying something!). Park at the Brough of Birsay parking area and take the signposted path along the coast in an easterly direction. When the tide is out you can watch seals sunning themselves on the rocks, and seabirds soaring above you. The path leads to Skiba Geo, where a restored fisherman's hut is built into the side of the cliff. Deep grooves in the ground show where fishermen drew their boats up high onto the shore for protection. Carry on past a bench set above the cliffs to the far point, called Skeres Naquer on OS maps, where a found whalebone has been set on a post above the shore. Return the same way. If the tide is out you can walk across to the Brough of Birsay or explore tidepools along the beach. Birsay, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Countryside Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Parking at the Point of Buckquoy (signposted Brough of Birsay). Access from Birsay. The OS maps may call this location Skipi Geo. OS HY250283 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

St Magnus Cathedral   Begun in 1137 in honor of St Magnus, Earl Magnus of Orkney. A well preserved medieval cathedral, Norman in character, built of alternating bands of red and yellow sandstone. Broad Street, Kirkwall, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland, KW15 1NX Attraction Type: Cathedral Heritage Rating:   ? Location: In the centre of Kirkwall. Website: St Magnus Cathedral Location map Details of St Magnus Cathedral - Photos of St Magnus Cathedral OS HY449109 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

St Magnus Church    The roofless ruins of a 12th century church stand in the north west of the little isle of Egilsay, off the easter end of Rousay. The church was built in the late 12th century and is composed of a rectangular nave which terminates in a square chancel. At the west end of the church is a striking round tower, which still stands to almost its full height. The church lost its roof in the 19th century. Egilsay, Skaill, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Church Heritage Rating:   ? Location: On the island of Egilsay 0.5m from the Skaill pier. Reached by regular ferry service from Tingwall Terminal on Orkney Mainland Website: St Magnus Church Historic Scotland OS HY466304 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Stones of Stenness Circle and Henge   The dramatic remains of a stone circle surrounded by remains of a circular earthwork. There are several extremely tall and slender stones, with several small and squat stones. Stenness is sited in a beautiful loch-side location, a short walk from the Ring of Brodgar. Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: 5 m (8 km) NE Stromness Website: Stones of Stenness Circle and Henge Historic Scotland Details of Stones of Stenness Circle and Henge OS HY306126 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Stromness Museum    Natural history and maritime museum includes displays on whaling, fishing, the Hudson Bay Company and the German Fleet in Scapa Flow. 52 Alfred Street, Stromness, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland, KW16 3DF Attraction Type: Museum Heritage Rating:   ? Location: on A965 Phone: 01856 850 025 Location map OS HY252086 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Tankerness House Museum   16th century town mansion portrays life in Orkney from prehistoric times. Extensive displays on prehistoric sites and artifacts found locally, plus domestic life exhibits and a plethora of information on local culture and customs. A good rainy-day stop! Tankerness House, Broad Street Kirkwall, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland, KW15 1DH Attraction Type: Museum Heritage Rating:   ? Location: In the centre of Kirkwall, opposite the Cathedral. Park in free parking area near the harbour (signposted) and walk 3-5 minutes. Website: Tankerness House Museum Phone: 01856 873 191 Fax: 01856 871 560 Location map OS HY449109 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Taversoe Tuick Chambered Cairn   Neolithic chambered mound with two burial chambers. Rousay, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Historic Scotland OS HY426276 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Tomb of the Eagles   Two attractions in one; the Tomb is a chambered cairn dating to approximately 3000 BCE. When excavated it was found to contain the bones of over 340 people, and the remains of sea eagles, pottery, bead, and stone tools. These artefacts can be viewed - and handled - in the modern visitor centre. The Bronze Age Burnt Mound (also known as Liddle Burnt Mound) consists of a burnt stone and refuse mound with an associated dwelling. The dwelling, which had a form of running water, may have been used as a kind of ceremonial sweat lodge. The Tomb of the Eagles is also known as Isbister Chambered Cairn. Burwick, South Ronaldsay, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: In the south east corner of South Ronaldsay, 7 miles south of St Margaret's Hope. Signposted off the A961. Access to the tomb is an adventure; you lie on a wheeled dolly and pull yourself along the short passage with a rope. Website: Tomb of the Eagles Email: info@tomboftheeagles.co.uk Phone: 01856 831 339 Details of Tomb of the Eagles OS ND470846 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Tormiston Mill    A late 19th century water mill, a good example of a type common in Scotland at that time. Tormiston was probably built in the 1880s. The waterwheel and most of the mill machinery are preserved. The iron wheel measures 4 metres diameter and drives three pairs of mill stones, located on the first floor of the mill building. Stenness, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland, KW16 3HH Attraction Type: Historic Property Heritage Rating:   ? Location: On the A965 about 9 miles west of Kirkwall, opposite Maeshowe. Website: Tormiston Mill Phone: 01856 761606 Historic Scotland Location map OS HY322127 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Tuquoy, Westside Church    A roofless 12th century Romanesque church, one of best preserved medieval churches of Orkney. It was built by an unknown Norse chief, whose farm lies atop the nearby cliffs. The building is simple, consisting of only a nave and aisle. For many it years served as the parish church. Tuquoy, Westray, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Church Heritage Rating:   ? Location: South of Midbea village, just over 3 miles south of Pierowall, Westray. Reached by ferry from island of Mainland Website: Tuquoy, Westside Church Historic Scotland OS HY455432 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Unstan Chambered Cairn   A Neolithic mound beside a loch, covering a communal stone burial chamber of 5 compartments. Pottery was found in the chamber. Stromness, Mainland, Orkney, HIghlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: 3.5 m northeast of Stromness, on a farm road off A965. The road is signposted from the A965, but nevertheless it is easy to miss, so keep your eyes open! Website: Unstan Chambered Cairn Historic Scotland Details of Unstan Chambered Cairn OS HY282117 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Wideford Hill Chambered Cairn   A chambered Neolithic (3500-2500BC) tomb in a cairn with 3 concentric walls and a burial chamber. There are excellent views from the hillside. Kirkwall, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: 2 m (3 km) W Kirkwall, then 1 m on foot from the road; access by trap door and ladder Website: Wideford Hill Chambered Cairn Historic Scotland OS HY409121 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Yesnaby   The single track road through Yesnaby ends at the abandonned WWII military establishment on the coast. From here a path leads south along the coast toward Stromness. The cliffs are truly spectacular, encompassing some of the finest coastal scenery you will ever see. Along the way are blowholes, geos (narrow sea inlets), striking seastacks, and the remains of prehistoric settlents. The path is easy to follow and the going is not difficult. One of the best walks on Orkney, and well worth the outing. Yesnaby, Mainland, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Countryside Heritage Rating:   ? Location: At the end of a minor road off the B9056. OS HY225155 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

Yetnasteen Standing Stone   A solitary standing stone measuring over 7 feet in height. Unusually, the stone stands at the bottom of a hill, rather than in an exposed, elevated position where it might more easily be seen. Legend tells that on New Years Day the stone walks down to the nearby loch to drink. The name of the stone derives from Old Norse 'Jotunna-steinn', meaning 'Giant Stone', and when you see Yetnasteen it is easy to see why it was so named. Yetnasteen, Orkney, Highlands and Islands, Scotland Attraction Type: Prehistoric Heritage Rating:   ? Location: Parking for several cars at the end of the minor road at Faraclett. Signposted path from the parking area. Good footwear advised. Accessible at any time. OS HY447327 Nearest attractions and accommodation     Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts

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