Orkney private tours

Orkney, a place rich in enigma and ancient charm, beckons with its storied landscapes. This collection of islands, where history whispers through Neolithic stone circles and Norse remnants, offers a passage through time. Picture standing amidst the solemn beauty of the Ring of Brodgar, feeling the island's pulse. Your local guide transforms Orkney tours into journeys of revelation. On a walking tour, follow paths once traversed by Vikings, or enjoy a culinary tour to sample the islands’ distinct tastes. Avoid the crowds at the famous Skara Brae, uncovering its mysteries through narratives only a local can offer. With your guide, Orkney unveils its concealed depths, crafting each tour into a personal voyage of discovery and awe. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Orkney. Explore Orkney your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Orkney tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Orkney for every interest, including: - Nature and Wildlife tours: Walk the cliffs at Yesnaby or Mull Head to see fulmars, kittiwakes, and dramatic sea stacks, with a stop to scan for seals hauled out on sheltered shores. In late spring and summer, your guide can time a visit to the Brough of Birsay or Marwick Head for puffins. - History tours: Explore Skara Brae’s 5,000-year-old homes, then stand among the Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar to connect the sites across the landscape. Add Maeshowe (pre-booking required) and the Italian Chapel, plus St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall for a strong timeline. - Layover tours: From the cruise pier at Hatston or the tender in Kirkwall, a 3–5 hour loop can cover Skara Brae, one stone circle, and St Magnus Cathedral, with timed entries arranged in advance. If weather cuts into plans, your guide can pivot to the Orkney Museum and the cathedral without losing time. Kirkwall’s centre is very walkable, but buses to the main sites are limited; you can ask your local guide about chauffeured tours or tours with private transportation to make the most of your time. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Orkney inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Embark on a private walking tour in Orkney to uncover the charm of its unique neighborhoods, guided by someone who truly knows the area. As you plan your itinerary, consider these popular spots, each offering a distinct glimpse into Orkney's vibrant culture and history. - Kirkwall: The heart of Orkney, Kirkwall offers a rich tapestry of history with landmarks like St. Magnus Cathedral. Families and history buffs alike will enjoy wandering its narrow lanes and discovering local shops and cafes. - Stromness: Known for its picturesque harbor and stone buildings, Stromness is perfect for those seeking meaningful connections with Orkney's maritime heritage. Art lovers will appreciate the galleries and museums nestled along its winding streets. - Birsay: This area is ideal for cultural tourists interested in ancient history. Explore the Brough of Birsay and the surrounding landscapes that offer stunning coastal views, perfect for multi-generational groups who enjoy both history and nature. - Rousay: Often referred to as the "Egypt of the North," this island is a haven for archaeology enthusiasts. With numerous ancient sites and beautiful hiking trails, it caters to those interested in exploring Orkney's prehistoric past with a knowledgeable guide. Day trip ideas from Orkney Base yourself in Kirkwall or Stromness and plan day trips across Mainland and nearby islands so you can mix stone circles, sea cliffs, and village life, shaping your tour around archaeology, short walks, wildlife, or wartime history. Heart of Neolithic Orkney: link Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Stones of Stenness for world‑class prehistory with gentle walking and big skies; add a chambered cairn visit for context, ideal if you enjoy clear storytelling sites and easy access. Hoy and the Old Man of Hoy: ride the short ferry to a wilder island for cliff views, the coastal walk to the sea stack, and the wide beach at Rackwick; great for hikers, photographers, and anyone who wants dramatic landscapes and Scapa Flow viewpoints. Brough of Birsay and Yesnaby: time the tide for the causeway to Birsay’s tidal island with seabirds in season and wave‑cut cliffs, then loop down to Yesnaby for sea stacks and short cliff paths; a good fit if you like geology, quick hikes, and big ocean vistas. South Isles and the Churchill Barriers: cross the causeways to see quiet beaches, seals hauled out on kelp beds, and the Italian Chapel’s vivid interior, with a pause in St Margaret’s Hope for harbour views and craft shops; suits calmer days focused on scenery and light browsing. These day trips and tours from Orkney’s main towns balance archaeology, coast walks, island hops, and wartime stories without long travel times. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Orkney most travellers miss.