How to Plan Your Orkney Islands Day Trip from John O’Groats
Are you ready to visit one of Scotland’s most historical and mystical islands? Then you’ll love this amazing guided tour to the Orkney Islands from John O’Groats. In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about the tour and how to plan your visit.Experience
The Orkney Islands day trip from John O’Groats is a full-day excursion that takes you on an unforgettable adventure. You will get to visit some of the most breathtaking and historical spots on the Orkney Islands, including the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, the Italian Chapel, St Magnus Cathedral, and much more.Highlights
This tour is packed with highlights, including:- Boarding the ferry at John O’Groats
- Taking a 40-minute ferry crossing, with the possibility of spotting marine wildlife such as puffins and orcas
- Enjoying the commentary from a local guide while travelling on a luxury coach
- Visiting the Churchill Barriers which were built during the First World War
- Stopping in Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, and seeing the St Magnus Cathedral, shops, museum, and scenic harbor
- Exploring Skara Brae, a prehistoric village that is older than the Pyramids
- Marveling at the Ring of Brodgar, a mystical circle of standing stones
- Seeing the beautiful Italian Chapel, a stunning Roman Catholic Church that was built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II
- Tasting delicious local food and drink (not included in the price)
Full Description
Your day trip will start by boarding the ferry at John O’Groats at 8:45 am. During the 40-minute ferry crossing, keep an eye out for marine wildlife, such as puffins and orcas. Once you arrive on the Orkney Islands, a luxury coach will be waiting to take you on your tour of the island. During your journey, you will be guided by a very knowledgeable and friendly local guide who will provide you with information about Orkney’s history, culture, and traditions. The guide will ensure that the day is both enjoyable and educational. The tour begins with a visit to the Churchill Barriers. These barriers were built during the First World War to protect the British fleet from enemy submarines. They now provide a haven for wildlife. Next, stop at Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney. Kirkwall is a small town with a lot of history. Here you will find St Magnus Cathedral, one of the finest medieval buildings in the north of Scotland. There are also plenty of shops to explore, a museum to learn more about the history of the island, and a scenic harbor to admire. After spending time in Kirkwall, you’ll head off to visit Skara Brae, a prehistoric village that is older than the Pyramids. The village was uncovered by a storm in 1850, and since then has been carefully preserved for visitors. You’ll get to explore the village and its ancient relics on this tour. The next stop on the tour is the Ring of Brodgar, a mysterious circle of standing stones that dates back more than 4,500 years. The Ring of Brodgar is one of the most visited and photographed neolithic sites in Europe. You’ll get to marvel at the stones’ beauty and mystery on this tour. The final stop on the tour is the Italian Chapel, a stunning Roman Catholic Church that was built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II. The Chapel is an incredible example of artistic and spiritual resilience.Includes
The day tour to Orkney Islands from John O’Groats includes:- Return ferry crossing
- Bus tour
- Entrance fee to Skara Brae (stone age village)
- Entrance fees to all other attractions included in the tour
Book Your Orkney Islands Day Trip from John O’Groats
Book your Orkney Islands day trip from John O’Groats now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. You can book the tour online through GetYourGuide, a trusted and reliable online tour booking platform. Make sure you book in advance to secure your spot, as the tour tends to sell out quickly, especially during peak season. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the beauty, history, and mystery of the Orkney Islands from John O’Groats. Book now and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.
FAQ About John O’Groats
John O’Groats is a small village located in the northernmost tip of Scotland. It is known for its stunning coastal views, charming cottages, and as the starting point for several adventures. If you are planning a visit to John O’Groats, here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip better:1. What is the best time to visit John O’Groats?
John O’Groats is a year-round travel destination; however, the best time to visit depends on personal preferences. The peak season in John O’Groats is from June to August; during this time, the weather is relatively warm, and the days are longer. However, if you are planning a visit during this peak season, you may need to book your accommodations and tours in advance as they tend to get booked up quickly.2. How do I get to John O’Groats?
The most common way to get to John O’Groats is by car. You can rent a car from Inverness and drive North; however, it is essential to note that the roads can be narrow, and the weather can be unpredictable, especially during the winter. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Inverness to Thurso and then transfer to a local bus heading to John O’Groats. The closest airport to John O’Groats is in Wick, and you can take a taxi or bus from there.3. What are the must-see attractions in John O’Groats?
John O’Groats has several must-see attractions that are worth visiting. Some popular ones include:- The John O’Groats Signpost – a landmark that marks the end of Britain and the beginning of the North Coast 500 route.
- The Duncansby Stacks- a natural formation of two towering sea stacks that rise from the sea.
- The Castle of Mey – a stunning castle and former residence of the Queen Mother.
- The Old Pulteney Distillery- a 200-year-old distillery that produces some of the finest whiskies in Scotland.
4. What activities can I do in John O’Groats?
John O’Groats is home to several outdoor activities and adventures. You can go on a wildlife tour, visit the local seal colonies, or go on a boat tour to see the famous Orkney Islands. If you enjoy hiking, there are several hiking trails around John O’Groats worth exploring, such as the John O’Groats Trail, a 147-mile coastal trail. Alternatively, you can take a cycling tour and explore the villages and coastal areas at your own pace.5. Are there any restaurants or cafes in John O’Groats?
Yes, John O’Groats has several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a wide range of Scottish cuisines, snacks, and drinks. Most of these restaurants and cafes offer spectacular views of the sea, and you can enjoy your meals while taking in the scenery. Some popular ones include The Seaview Hotel, The Stacks Bistro, and the John O’Groats Coffee House.6. What is the weather like in John O’Groats?
John O’Groats has a maritime climate, which means that the weather can be unpredictable and changeable. The region experiences mild summers and cool winters, and the temperature is generally lower than the rest of Scotland. It is essential to pack appropriate clothing and waterproof gear, especially if you are planning to do outdoor activities and adventures.7. What should I pack for my trip to John O’Groats?
Packing for your trip to John O’Groats will depend on your itinerary and your planned activities. However, some essential items to pack include warm clothing, waterproof gear, walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the stunning views.8. Can I see the Northern Lights in John O’Groats?
Yes, it is possible to see the Northern Lights in John O’Groats, especially during the winter months. The region has low levels of light pollution, which makes it an ideal location for Aurora spotting. You can go on guided tours to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.9. Are there any accommodations in John O’Groats?
Yes, John O’Groats has several accommodations that cater to different budgets and travel preferences. You can choose from charming cottages, bed and breakfasts, hotels, and glamping sites, among others. It is advisable to book your accommodations in advance, especially during the peak season.10. Is John O’Groats a safe destination?
Yes, John O’Groats is generally a safe destination for both locals and tourists. However, it is essential to practice standard safety precautions, such as not leaving your belongings unattended and being aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring the outdoors.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in John O Groats
As the northernmost point of mainland UK, John O Groats attracts thousands of tourists every year. The remote location and stunning natural beauty make it a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, there are plenty of things to do and see in John O Groats. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in John O Groats.1. Visit the Iconic Signpost
No visit to John O Groats is complete without snapping a photo at the famous signpost. Located at the harbor, the signpost is a popular spot for tourists to capture their moment of being at the northernmost point of the UK. The signpost is a great spot for taking photos and making fun memories with friends and family.2. Explore the Natural Beauty of the Highlands
The Highlands of Scotland are known for their rugged landscapes, stunning scenery, and abundant wildlife. John O Groats is the perfect base for exploring the beauty of the Highlands. From here, you can take a ferry to the Orkney Islands, visit the Duncansby Head Lighthouse, or take a walk along the rugged coastline. The John O Groats Trail is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area, with a variety of routes to suit different levels of fitness.3. Learn About Local History at the Seashell Museum
Located just a short walk from the harbor, the Seashell Museum is a fascinating attraction that showcases the local marine life of the area. The museum displays a variety of shells, fossils, and other marine artifacts collected from the shores of John O Groats over the years. Visitors can learn about the history of the area and the importance of the sea to local communities. The museum is a fun and educational attraction for people of all ages.4. Taste Local Cuisine at the Stacks Bistro
When it comes to food, John O Groats has some delicious options. Stacks Bistro is a popular restaurant that serves up delicious local seafood dishes, including fresh haddock, mussels, and scallops. They also have a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options, so there’s something for everyone. The bistro has a cozy atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a delicious meal after exploring the area.5. Experience Traditional Highland Culture at the Highland Games
If you’re lucky enough to be in John O Groats during the summer months, you may be able to experience the Highland Games. This traditional event showcases the best of Scottish culture, with events such as caber tossing, tug of war, and pipe band competitions. The games are a great way to experience the rich history and culture of the area and are an exciting event for the whole family.6. Take a Boat Tour to See the Local Wildlife
John O Groats is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, whales, and seabirds. Taking a boat tour is a fantastic way to get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures. There are several boat operators in the area that offer tours, so you can choose the one that best suits your interests and budget. Whale watching tours are particularly popular, with the chance to see minke, orca, and humpback whales in their natural habitat.7. Stay in a Traditional Scottish Cottage
For a truly authentic Scottish experience, why not stay in a traditional Scottish cottage during your visit to John O Groats? There are several cottages available for rent in the area, offering a cozy and comfortable home away from home. These cottages are perfect for families or groups of friends and provide an ideal base for exploring the area. In conclusion, John O Groats is a fantastic destination for tourists looking to experience the natural beauty and rich culture of the Scottish Highlands. From exploring the rugged coastline to learning about the local history and culture, there’s something for everyone in John O Groats. By following these tips, you’re sure to have a wonderful visit to this beautiful part of the world.Table of Contents
