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Kirkwall

Welcome to Kirkwall, a charming town on the Orkney Islands! Wander through its winding streets lined with ancient stone buildings, visit the stunning St. Magnus Cathedral, and don't miss the local pubs for a taste of Orkney ale. Explore the nearby Neolithic sites and soak in the rich history of this picturesque Scottish gem.

Recommendations

Culture4.7/5

St Magnus Cathedral

Step inside St Magnus Cathedral and be transported back in time with its stunning architecture and rich history. Marvel at the intricate stained glass windows, ornate carvings, and impressive vaulted ceilings. Don't forget to look for the Viking graffiti etched into the walls! Don't miss this gem in the heart of Kirkwall.

Culture4.6/5

The Orkney Museum

Dive into the charming Orkney Museum, nestled in Kirkwall's heart! Housed in a quirky Victorian warehouse, this treasure trove showcases Orkney's rich history, from Viking artifacts to ancient Neolithic wonders. With its friendly staff and interactive exhibits, you'll leave with a smile—and a newfound appreciation for these enchanting islands. Don't miss the quirky gift shop!

Landmark4.5/5

Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces

Discover the captivating Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces in Kirkwall, where history whispers from ancient stone walls! Explore the stunning ruins with their majestic architecture, and imagine the tales of power and intrigue. Located near the charming Watergate, these palatial gems are a must-visit for any traveler seeking a taste of Orkney’s rich heritage and breathtaking scenery!

Eat$$$4.4/5

Helgi's

Located in Kirkwall, Helgi's is a cozy cafe known for its delicious coffee and homemade pastries. The friendly staff and charming atmosphere make it the perfect spot to relax after exploring the historic sights of Orkney. Don't miss their famous cinnamon buns!

Eat$$$4.8/5

The Foveran

Looking for a cozy stay in the heart of Kirkwall? Look no further than The Foveran! This charming guesthouse on A964 offers comfy rooms, delicious breakfast, and easy access to local attractions. Don't miss out on this hidden gem in the Orkney Islands!

Eat$$4.4/5

Lucano

Eat5/5

The Orkney Roastery

Stays

Stay4.65/5

Broad Street Gardens Apartments

Nestled in the heart of Kirkwall, Broad Street Gardens Apartments offers stunning views, modern amenities, and a vibrant community atmosphere, making it an iconic destination for both relaxation and exploration in Orkney.

Stay4.4/5

Albert Hotel

Welcome to the Albert Hotel, a charming retreat nestled in the heart of Kirkwall. This quirky gem will teleport you to a world where old-fashioned elegance meets modern comfort. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic building, enjoy delicious meals at the onsite restaurant, and explore the nearby landmarks and hidden gems. With its prime location and unique charm, the Albert Hotel is the perfect base for your Orkney adventure!

Stay4.15/5

Kirkwall Hotel

Located in the heart of Kirkwall, Kirkwall Hotel offers cozy rooms with views of the harbor. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff make you feel right at home. Enjoy a pint at the bar or a delicious meal in the restaurant. Just steps away from local shops and attractions, this hotel is the perfect base for your Orkney adventure.

Stay4.15/5

Kirkwall Youth Hostel

Stay3.9/5

The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms

Nestled in the heart of Kirkwall, The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms offers a delightful blend of local cuisine and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of Orkney's charm.

Stay3.9/5

West End Hotel

Stay3.9/5

The Shore

The Shore in Kirkwall offers stunning waterfront views, rich maritime history, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Orkney's charming capital.

Things To Do
Provided by

4.4/5

Taxi / Tours of Orkney (self guided)

This is a private tour. You will be picked up and driven around the islands, taking in the Standing Stones of Stenness, Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae, Unstan Cairn and a trip out to see the cliffs at Yesnaby. You can decide your own itinerary if required.

$340.39

5/5

4 h

Private Half-Day Tour in Kirkwall: Ancient Orkney Heritage

A private half-day tour reveals Orkney’s Historic heritage through the Ancient landscapes surrounding Kirkwall. Travel across a region where Archaeological treasures and Cultural traditions preserve one of Europe’s oldest civilizations. How did these remarkable islands shape thousands of years of human history? Discover Historic landmarks, Medieval sites, and Architectural monuments that reflect Norse influence and enduring island heritage. Your knowledgeable guide brings the region’s Classical legacy, cultural identity, and remarkable past to life through engaging historical insights. This premium experience combines breathtaking scenery with UNESCO Heritage sites, timeless architecture, and the enduring legacy of one of Scotland’s most extraordinary historic destinations. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

$1,250.94

5 h

Private Orkney Spirits A Whiskey Journey Through Time

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Embark on “Orkney Spirits” a tour blending Orkney’s ancient historical sites with its proud whiskey heritage. Start in the bustling town of Kirkwall, exploring its Viking past and magnificent cathedral. Journey through time at the Neolithic sites of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, then visit Skara Brae to connect with the island’s Stone Age inhabitants. Traverse the Churchill Barriers, poignant reminders of wartime resilience, and visit the Italian Chapel, a testament to human spirit and artistry. Conclude your tour with a visit to Scapa distillery, where traditional whiskey-making comes to life. This tour offers a unique blend of history and flavor. Please note: The availability and accessibility of attractions may vary based on time of day and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience. Additionally, if the Scapa Distillery is closed, we will make an effort to arrange a visit to another distillery.

$1,335.58

4.6/5

6 h 30 mins

Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall

Join us for a visit to Orkney where you will see some of the oldest and best-preserved Neolithic sites in Europe. Designated a Unesco World Heritage Site, Orkney is a unique place worth visiting. On this adventure, our starting point is the Stones of Stenness, four giant megaliths which date back to 3100BC making it one of the oldest stone circles in Britain. Second stop, Ring of Brodgar is the finest known circular late Neolithic or early Bronze Age stone ring. Get your cameras ready to take some great pictures!! Our next stop will be Broch of Gurness, an Iron Age broch village where prosperous farmers had settled. Be ready now for our second most visited site on Orkney, the Italian Chapel. Next stop, St. Magnus Cathedral is in the heart of Kirkwall, the capital city of the Orkney Islands. Also known as the “light in the North”. Our tour guide will give you some free time. Max 20 people( adjustable times based on the schedule of your cruise) WALKING INVOLVED MISSING YOU ALREADY!

$262.93

4.9/5

7 h

From Kirkwall - Orkney Mainland Private Tour

Get ready for an incredible tour around Orkney!! Orkney is unique because of its Neolithic monuments. The group of monuments constitutes a major prehistoric cultural landscape which depicts life in this remote archipelago 5000 years ago. We will drive through agricultural land to the shores of Scapa flow, a natural harbour located off the coast of Scotland Then we will stop at Unstan Chambered Cairn A quick visit to The Stones of Stennes Ring of Brodgar is our next attraction to visit Skara Brae is one of the best-preserved stone-built Neolithic settlements. It is one of the most fascinating prehistoric villages We will also stop at Skaill House. Our last stop is Italian Chapel: our driver/ tour guide will let you know about the fascinating history of this well know church on the island PLEASE NOTE: WALKING INVOLVED MISSING YOU ALREADY!!

$538.18

4.8/5

6 h

Shore Excursion Kirkwall Small Group Highlights of Orkney

A small group tour of the Orkney Islands offers a uniquely intimate and personalized experience for cruise guests. Unlike larger tour groups, a smaller group size allows for greater flexibility in itinerary planning and more personalized attention from knowledgeable guides. Here are a few reasons why a small group tour of the Orkney Islands is particularly special for cruise guests.

$325.30

5/5

4 h

Kirkwall Private Walking Tour

For this tour you need to take the shuttle bus from the pier to the city centre. Kirkwall is the largest town in Orkney, an archipelago in the north of mainland Scotland. What to expect – your local guide will take you around Kirkwall, the largest town in Orkney, which is situated on the northern coast of mainland Orkney We will explore St. Magnus Cathedral founded in 1137 by the Viking, Earl Rognvald, in honour of his uncle St Magnus. Then we will visit two buildings full of history in the heart of Kirkwall: Bishop´s and Earl´s Palace. Bishop’s Palace is one of the best - preserved buildings from medieval times. Once this visit is finished, we will head to Albert Street. Your local guide will meet you up at the meeting point and take you back to the ship. PLEASE NOTE: WALKING INVOLVED MISSING YOU ALREADY!! Included: Bishop´s and Earl´s Palace

$249.83

4/5

6 h

Scapa Tours

A private tour that is tailored to your wants needs and wishes. To see our magnificent views of the scenery, bird and sea life as well as our iconic neolithic and bronze age monuments. If there are specific sites you wish to see that has not been mentioned please let me know so I can adjust the itinerary. If you require a lunch stop please give me plenty notice to book in advance Collection and drop offs can altered to your choice

$1,303.93

4.5/5

Private Full Day Tour in Orkney

Stepping back in time and delving into the rich tapestry of Orkney’s past with our expertly guided tours. The Orkney Islands are a treasure trove of Neolithic wonders, boasting some of the world’s most well-preserved archaeological sites. From the ancient village of Skara Brae to the majestic Ring of Brodgar, our tours offer you a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of those who shaped history thousands of years ago. Discover the secrets of Orkney’s ancient landscape and uncover the stories behind these remarkable sites. And not forgetting the role Scapa Flow did play in both world wars and the magnificent "Miracle of camp 60" The Italian Chapel and many more.

$219.61

5/5

8 h

Bespoke Private Guided Tours

My tours, including sites like the Skara Brae, Italian Chapel, Scapa Flow, Yesnaby Cliffs, Ring of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness, and many more are unique for several reasons: Skara Brae is Europe's best-preserved prehistoric village, dating back over 5,000 years. Italian Chapel was built by Italian POWs during World War II, making it a symbol of hope and resilience. Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness are both part of a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Yesnaby Cliffs and Marwick Head are known for their dramatic sea cliffs, offering breath taking coastal views. Overall, these tours are unique because they offer a fascinating blend of ancient history, dramatic natural beauty, and wartime significance, all while experiencing Orkney’s exceptional landscape and wildlife.

$233.33

5/5

6 h

Greenock Cruise Excursion- Round of Golf in Loch Lomond & Lunch

This unique day tour combines luxury, sport, and scenery in true Scottish style. Travel in comfort from your cruise ship to Buchanan Castle Golf Club in the heart of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, and enjoy a round on one of Scotland’s finest parkland courses , designed by celebrated golf-architect James Braid. The course is suitable for all abilities with club hire included. While golfers play, non-golfing guests can enjoy an alternative local excursion, before everyone reunites for a relaxing lunch and drink amid stunning Highland views. A truly unforgettable day. This is a shared tour for the transportation element only. Guests will be booked to play their round with own party. Guests booking as sole players will be offered the choice of playing with another guest or party if they desire. Bookings of 5 persons or more will be treated as a private tour with vehicle allocated exclusively to them for the day.

$288.24

4/5

8 h 30 mins

Inveraray and the West Highlands from Greenock Port

Experience the dramatic landscapes of Scotland’s West Highlands in a small, semi-private group—ensuring a more personal and relaxed day ashore. Unlike larger cruise excursions, this carefully curated tour lets you explore at a comfortable pace with fewer people and more flexibility. Begin with a peaceful visit to the lochside village of Luss, where flower-filled cottages and scenic views offer a picture-perfect introduction to Highland charm. Soak in sweeping vistas from the famous Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint before continuing to the historic town of Inveraray. Here you’ll have time to explore the town, enjoy lunch at your leisure, and—if open—visit the grand Inveraray Castle, home to the Duke of Argyll. End the day with a scenic ferry ride across the River Clyde, included in your tour, before returning to port. With expert local insight and a welcoming, small-group atmosphere, this is a truly memorable alternative to the typical cruise line excursion.

$229.88

4.9/5

1 h 30 mins

St Andrews Eden Mill Gin Cocktail Masterclass

Activity details Enjoy a fun and informative gin cocktail masterclass, led by one of the expert mixologists. After enjoying a G&T on arrival, your host will tell you all about the history of gin and Eden Mill. Following this, an expert host will take you through a tutored tasting of Eden Mill's three Coastal Gins (Golf Gin, Love Gin & Original Gin) paired with some sweet treats. You will then enjoy a mixology session in one of the tasting rooms, where a mixologist will guide you through how to perfectly craft two gin cocktails!

$54.90

Murder and Treason: Audio Guide to Medieval Perth’s Bloody Past

Hear tales of warring clans and betrayal in Scotland’s former capital on this self-guided audio tour. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive stroll through Perth. Perth is one of Scotland’s most important medieval cities. Because of its proximity to Scone, where ancient monarchs were crowned, it was once central to royal life. This walking tour explores the former capital’s royal links and the violence that often accompanied them. You’ll explore the city’s almost prehistoric origins, with evidence showing that hunter-gatherers lived here 8,000 years ago, predating the Romans in Britain. As you continue, you’ll hear the story of King James VI’s alleged abduction by the powerful Ruthven family. I’ll also tell you about his ancestor King James I of Scotland. Join me for a Scottish sojourn beside the River Tay. This is a great introduction to Scotland’s first capital city. If you like history, with a bit of intrigue and murder, this is the tour for you!

$11.99

5/5

7 h 10 mins

Historic Orkney Private Showcase by a Native Islander 7h

The ideal full-day introduction to Orkney, paced properly and completely crowd-free. Led by a born-and-bred local guide, this private tour focuses on Orkney’s Neolithic sites, Viking heritage, with wartime history without the rush of a group bus. Enjoy dedicated on-site guiding, plenty of rest time, and travel in an immaculate vehicle with no strangers sharing your space. Because this is entirely private, your itinerary is never fixed. If you want to linger longer or change direction, your guide can adapt the route around your preferences. Originally built as a reliable shore excursion for cruise guests, it works just as well for first-time visitors staying on the islands seeking an introduction. Standard booking is set to 3 guests, but I can accommodate families of 4 or larger groups by arrangement. Listing space is limited, so for custom routes or specific historical focuses, reach out for my full service portfolio. As a top-rated local operator for years, I enjoy a challenge.

$1,029.42

5/5

Greenock Private Tour Stirling Castle & Loch Lomond

This is a fully customisable private tour for up to 6 people. You will be picked up and dropped off at your ship, in an air conditioned Minivan with leather seats and privacy glass. 3rd Party activities can be arranged and booked on your behalf to ensure you make the most of your visit.

$892.16

5/5

8 h

Glasgow Private Shore Excursion Highlands Lochs Castles & Ferry

Maximise your time ashore and let a local kilted Scotsman greet you off the Cruise Ship and welcome you aboard our luxury minivan Mercedes V Class or similar Being a private tour this beats any large coach tour as you get the added luxury of adding stops that interest your group plus you will have the exclusive use of a private local guide who will talk you through the local history and culture. You will get the benefit of not traveling back on the same route as we will go in a circular taking a ferry over the Firth of Clyde and returning back over the river Clyde via the Erskine Bridge. Please Note: Start and end times are flexible to suit the ships docking schedule. TOUR UPDATE - due to storm damage during storm Ewoyn, Pucks Glen will be closed for the 2025 season and instead we will offer a stop at the nearby Benmore Gardens* Benmore Gardens is additional cost please see exclusions for prices

$479.02

8 h

Stirling Castle, Falkirk Wheel & Kelpies Private Shore Excursion

Your private day tour brings together the remarkable engineering of the The Falkirk Wheel with the majestic sight of the Kelpies and the brutal history of Stirling Castle. On this trip there is plenty of time to explore amazing architecture and take in breath-taking both natural and man-made wonders while immersing yourself in myths, legends and stories from the past with your very own private guide.

$1,362.76

5/5

Glasgow shore Excursion - One day Tour

Experience parts of Scotland most visitors to Greenock don’t normally think to visit, during this private, one-day Highland Tour. Benefit from the local knowledge of your driver and stop by hidden destinations and key attractions, such as Stirling Castle, highland cows at Kilmahog, and falls of dochart. Cover far more ground, far more comfortably, than you would be able to alone.Ideal for first-time visitors and those with limited time in Scotland Visit lochs, castles and more .Travel in a comfortable private minivan chauffeured by your driver Convenient pickup and drop-off is included for Greenock ocean terminal