Scattered off Scotland’s northern coast, the Orkney Islands feel both ancient and alive. Stone circles predate the pyramids, seabirds nest on dramatic cliffs, and the people greet you with warmth shaped by sea and story. With your private tour, explore Orkney’s rich history, rugged beauty, and everyday charm — all at your pace, with your guide showing you the way.

<h3>Top 10 Must-See Attractions in the Orkney Islands</h3>
Begin your tour with these iconic landmarks. They offer a glimpse into the islands’ deep past and enduring spirit — from Neolithic marvels to wartime resilience.

Skara Brae
 Step into a 5,000-year-old village preserved in sand. Peer inside stone houses, hearths, and storage chambers — all older than Stonehenge — and imagine life in prehistoric Orkney.

Ring of Brodgar
 A stone circle of mysterious origin. Surrounded by heather and lochs, its standing stones form a perfect arc, creating a space charged with ancient energy.

St Magnus Cathedral
 In the heart of Kirkwall, this red sandstone cathedral tells stories of Viking rule, saints, and island pride. Built in the 12th century, it’s both majestic and intimate.

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn
 This Neolithic tomb is a marvel of engineering. Enter through a narrow stone passage to discover Viking graffiti carved into the ancient walls.

Italian Chapel
 Built by WWII prisoners of war, this chapel is a symbol of hope and creativity. Simple on the outside, it stuns with painted ceilings and delicate detail within.

Scapa Flow
 A natural harbour with a dramatic past. Learn about its role in both world wars, and see the rusting remnants of the German fleet beneath the waves.

Kirkwall Town Centre
 Stroll through cobbled lanes filled with local shops, cozy cafés, and historic buildings. A charming place to pause and take in everyday Orkney life.

Brough of Birsay
 Cross a tidal causeway to reach these windswept ruins of a Norse settlement. Spot puffins in season and soak in the views from dramatic cliffs.

Highland Park Distillery
 Tour one of Scotland’s northernmost whisky distilleries. Smell the peat, feel the warmth of the copper stills, and taste the smooth results.

Yesnaby Cliffs
 Towering sea cliffs sculpted by wind and water. Walk along coastal paths to see wildflowers, seabirds, and epic Atlantic views.

<h3>Explore Orkney Off the Beaten Path</h3>
Beyond the main sites, your tour can take you to quieter corners filled with character and connection. These places let you feel Orkney at its most personal.

Waulkmill Bay
 A sheltered tidal bay with wide sands and shifting light. Ideal for a quiet walk and watching local birdlife at low tide.

Happy Valley
 A magical woodland garden nestled in a glen. Follow winding paths past waterfalls, mossy trees, and hidden benches.

Deerness Gloup
 A collapsed sea cave with a hidden lagoon. Peer over the edge and listen to the echoes of crashing waves below.

The Gloup Memorial Cliffs
 A lesser-known coastal trail that rewards walkers with expansive sea views and a sense of Orkney’s wild edge.

Tankerness House Gardens
 A peaceful garden tucked behind an old merchant’s house in Kirkwall. It’s a relaxing green escape with stories in every stone.

Hoxa Head
 Wartime bunkers and lookout points face the North Sea. The winds howl, the sea stretches wide, and the history feels close.

<h3>Day Trip Ideas from the Orkney Mainland</h3>
Your tour can include boat rides and scenic drives that take you even deeper into island life. These day trips offer new perspectives on Orkney’s natural and cultural richness.

Hoy
 Ride the ferry to this rugged island known for sea cliffs and wartime history. Hike to the Old Man of Hoy — a towering sea stack that rises dramatically from the ocean.

Rousay
 Nicknamed “the Egypt of the North” for its dense archaeological sites. Explore chambered tombs, brochs, and sweeping coastal paths with few others around.

Shapinsay
 A quick boat trip from Kirkwall leads to quiet lanes, Balfour Castle, and soft, rolling landscapes — ideal for a slower day in the countryside.

Westray and Papa Westray
 Hop across small islands to visit bird sanctuaries, puffin colonies, and one of the world’s shortest commercial flights. These remote outposts offer raw beauty and real peace.

<h3>Travel Tips for Your Visit</h3>
Orkney is open, welcoming, and full of subtle wonders. Here’s how to make your tour smooth, comfortable, and memorable.

Best Time to Visit
 May to September offers long days, mild weather, and vibrant green landscapes. Late spring is ideal for birdwatching; summer brings cultural festivals.

Getting Around
 Your guide helps navigate ferry schedules, country lanes, and weather considerations — especially for island-hopping or remote hikes.

What to Wear
 Layers are key. Bring a waterproof jacket, walking shoes, and warm extras even in summer. The weather changes quickly, especially by the coast.

Local Etiquette Tips
 Greet locals with a smile or “hello.” Be respectful in quiet places, especially around rural homes and historical sites. Orkney moves at a gentle pace — enjoy it.

<h3>Explore Orkney Your Way</h3>
Orkney doesn’t shout — it whispers. In standing stones, storm-carved cliffs, and firelit pubs, your tour reveals stories shaped by nature and time. Whether you’re tracing Norse footsteps or watching seals on the shore, every moment here feels personal.
With your guide, your tour is private, flexible, and designed around what moves you most. Backed by 5-star reviews, flexible cancellation, and expert-vetted guides, ToursByLocals helps you experience Orkney not as a visitor — but as a traveler connected to place.



Orkney

The Must See Attractions of Kirkwall

Orkney Full Day Private tour 

This tour is crafted to showcase Orkney's main sights in just 5 hours, with the option to extend or tailor the experience to your preferences. The standard duration is 5 hours, it offers flexibility

Historic Orkney Private Odyssey Tour by a Native Islander

Entrance fees to Skara Brae, Skail House and the Italian Chapel

The Orkney Bucket List

Classic Orkney Full Day Tour

Introduction to Orkney

Cruise excursion Tour of Orkney 5 to 5.5 hours

The Far North - John O'Groats, Dunrobin Castle and Whisky Distillery - April to October only

Visit Dunrobin Castle and a whisky distillery on your way to the most northern point in the mainland Britain

Half Day Orkney Highlights - Private Tour

Entrance Fees to Skara  Brae and Italian Chapel

The Must See's at Speed!

The Best of Orkney: A Full-Day 7-Hour Tour

Historic Orkney Showcase Private Tour By a Native Islander 

Skara Brae and Italian Chapel, Kirbister farm 

Orkney in a Day

Explore and See Orkney 7 hours

 This tour is crafted to see other Orkney sites in just 5 hours, with the option to extend or tailor the experience to your preferences. While the standard duration is 5 hours, it is flexible.

Historic Orkney Coastal Charms Tour by a Native Islander 

Entrance fee to Skara Brae and Italian Chapel

Cruise tour Special - Private Tour

Heart of Neolithic Orkney 4 hours

Creative Walk: A Full Day Tour of Local Orkney Beach

Old fishing rope washed up on a Orkney beach

Ocean Plait mat made from old fishing rope

A Kringle mat/trivet made from old fishing rope

Kirkwall tours

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Meet your local guides in Kirkwall

Contact the Guide

Contact the Guide

Contact the Guide

Contact the Guide

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