How to Plan Your Private Orkney Mainland Tour in Kirkwall

Are you planning a trip to Kirkwall and looking for ways to explore the natural and historical landmarks of Orkney Mainland? Look no further than booking the private tour offered by Viator. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of planning your tour from start to finish.

Overview of the Orkney Mainland Private Tour

The Orkney Mainland Private Tour from Kirkwall is a unique opportunity to explore the beautiful and rugged scenery of Orkney’s main island. The tour will take you on a journey through time, visiting some of the most fascinating Neolithic, Bronze, and Iron Age settlements, villages, and standing stones. The tour is perfect for those who want to travel at their own pace and take in the beauty of Orkney Mainland’s wild nature without the hassle of planning logistics. Your private guide will pick you up from your preferred location and provide round-trip transit, making your travel stress-free.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Orkney Mainland Private Tour includes admission tickets to various historical landmarks such as Skara Brae and Skaill House. The Broch of Gurness admission ticket is also included in the tour package. The tour starts with a scenic drive through Scapa Flow, a natural harbor, renowned for its historical significance as the site of many naval battles in both World War I and II. You will then visit Neolithic sites such as the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness, and the Maeshowe tomb. These sites provide a glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Orcadians and their remarkable skills in architecture. The tour also takes you to the Broch of Gurness, a uniquely preserved Iron Age village. You’ll see the grandeur of Skaill House once owned by a famous Orcadian explorer, leading to the coast of Marwick Head where the grandeur of the island’s cliffs will be present.

Booking Your Private Orkney Mainland Tour

Booking your Orkney Mainland Private Tour is easy. All you need to do is visit the Viator website and search for the Orkney Mainland Private Tour. Once you find the tour, you can select the date and time of your travel and provide your preferred pickup location. The Viator website offers a secure and convenient platform to book your tour with just a few clicks.

Book Your Tour Now

Taking a private tour of Orkney Mainland is a great way to explore and experience the beauty of the Scottish island. By booking the Orkney Mainland Private Tour, you can relax and enjoy the journey as your expert guide takes you through the island’s breathtaking natural and historical landmarks. So, when planning your trip to Kirkwall, make sure to book your private Orkney Mainland tour and take advantage of the opportunity to see nature’s beauty and learn about the island’s ancient past. Book here and enjoy a stress-free adventure!

FAQ about Kirkwall

Kirkwall is a beautiful city located in the heart of the Orkney Islands in Scotland. Known for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and friendly locals, it’s no surprise that so many people choose to visit this beautiful city every year. If you are planning a trip to Kirkwall, you probably have a lot of questions about what to expect during your stay. Here are some frequently asked questions about Kirkwall that can help you plan your trip.

1. Where is Kirkwall located?

Kirkwall is located in the Orkney Islands, which are located off the north coast of Scotland. The Islands are easily accessible by ferry or plane, and there are multiple daily flights from Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.

2. What are some popular attractions in Kirkwall?

Kirkwall has a plethora of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular:

a) St. Magnus Cathedral:

St. Magnus Cathedral is a magnificent medieval cathedral located in the heart of Kirkwall. It was built in the 12th century and is one of the most well-preserved medieval buildings in Scotland.

b) Highland Park Distillery:

If you are a fan of whiskey, you won’t want to miss the Highland Park Distillery. This is where Scotland’s most northerly whiskey is produced, and you can take a guided tour to learn more about the whiskey-making process.

c) Skara Brae:

Skara Brae is a Neolithic settlement located on the west coast of the Orkney mainland. It’s considered one of the most well-preserved prehistoric settlements in Europe and is a must-see for history buffs.

d) Ring of Brodgar:

The Ring of Brodgar is a stone circle that dates back over 4,000 years. It’s located on the mainland of Orkney and is considered one of the most impressive prehistoric monuments in the UK.

3. What is the weather like in Kirkwall?

Kirkwall has a temperate maritime climate, which means that it has mild winters and cool summers. The average temperature in the summer months is around 15°C (59°F), while in the winter months, it’s around 5°C (41°F). It’s worth noting that the weather can be unpredictable in the Orkney Islands, so it’s important to pack for all eventualities.

4. What is the food like in Kirkwall?

Kirkwall has a thriving food scene, with plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Seafood is a particular specialty in the Orkney Islands, and you’ll find plenty of fresh catches of the day on offer. Other local delicacies include haggis, black pudding, and neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes). If you’re feeling brave, you can even try some Orkney fudge, which is made with seaweed!

5. What accommodation options are available in Kirkwall?

Kirkwall has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. There are plenty of hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts to choose from in the city center, as well as self-catering options if you prefer to have your own space. There are also a number of campsites and caravan parks in the surrounding areas if you are traveling on a budget.

6. What is the best way to get around Kirkwall?

Kirkwall is a small city, and most of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer to take public transport, there are regular buses that run throughout the city and the wider Orkney Islands. There are also taxis available if you need to get somewhere quickly, and car rental companies in the area if you prefer to have your own vehicle.

7. When is the best time to visit Kirkwall?

The best time to visit Kirkwall is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is at its warmest and the days are longest. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so if you prefer to avoid the crowds, you might want to consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October). The winter months can be cold and dark, but if you don’t mind the weather, it’s a great time to experience the magical beauty of the Orkney Islands in the off-season. In conclusion, Kirkwall is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or food, you will find plenty to keep you entertained during your visit. By taking the time to plan your trip and understand what to expect, you can make the most of your stay in this wonderful city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kirkwall

Kirkwall, the capital city of the Orkney Islands in Scotland, has a rich history and beautiful landscapes that make it a must-visit destination. Kirkwall boasts of stunning scenery, ancient sites, beautiful cathedrals, and lovely, friendly people. Whether you are visiting for a day or a week, there is plenty to see and do in Kirkwall.

1. Visit the St. Magnus Cathedral

One of the main attractions of Kirkwall is the St. Magnus Cathedral. This stunning cathedral was founded in 1137 and completed in 1150. It is considered one of the finest medieval buildings in Scotland. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cathedral or explore it on their own. The interior of the cathedral is breathtaking, with beautiful stained-glass windows, intricate stonework, and a fascinating history. Visitors can attend services at the St. Magnus Cathedral which is still an active church.

2. Visit the Earl’s Palace

The Earl’s Palace is another must-visit attraction in Kirkwall. The palace is located next to the St. Magnus Cathedral and was built in the 1600s. It boasts a stunning Renaissance architecture and is a testament to the wealth and power of the earls who lived there. Visitors can tour the palace’s Grand Hall, private chambers, and beautiful gardens. The palace offers a glimpse of Orkney’s history and the opulent lifestyle of the earls.

3. Explore the Orkney Museum

The Orkney Museum is a fascinating place to visit for tourists interested in Orkney’s history and culture. The museum is located in Tankerness House, which was built in 1574. The museum houses a collection of artifacts that show Orkney’s heritage from the Stone Age to the present. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, including paintings, photographs, costumes, and ancient artifacts. The Orkney Museum is an excellent place to learn about the island’s rich heritage.

4. Check out The Italian Chapel

The Italian Chapel is another must-see attraction in Kirkwall. The chapel was built during World War II by Italian prisoners of war who were stationed there. The prisoners used scrap materials to build the chapel, which is now recognized as a work of art. Visitors can explore the chapel’s beautiful interiors and appreciate the prisoners’ artistic skills.

5. Take a Walk Along the Coastline

Kirkwall’s coastline is simply stunning, and it is a must-visit destination for tourists. Visitors can take a walk along the shoreline and appreciate the beautiful views. They can see the clear waters, striking cliffs, and stunning wildlife. Visitors can take a leisurely walk or a guided tour of the coastline.

6. Visit the Highland Park Distillery

Scotland is known for its whisky, and Kirkwall is home to the Highland Park Distillery. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery, learn about the distillation process, and sample some of Scotland’s finest whisky. The distillery’s location is also breathtaking, with stunning views of the Orcadian landscape.

7. Take the NorthLink Ferries to other parts of Orkney

The NorthLink Ferries offer tourists the opportunity to explore other parts of the Orkney Islands from Kirkwall. Visitors can take a ferry to other towns, villages, and islands in the Orkney archipelago. The ferry rides are scenic and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the rugged coastline, discover ancient ruins, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The Bottom Line

Kirkwall is a beautiful city with a rich history and stunning landscape. Visitors can explore the city’s attractions, discover its culture, take a whiskey tour, and explore other parts of the Orkney archipelago. Kirkwall is an excellent destination for visitors looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. Visitors should respect the city’s culture, natural environment, and heritage and adhere to the rules and regulations. Have a safe and enjoyable trip to Kirkwall!