Holidays in Orkney

Orkney is an archipelago of 67 islands lying 10 miles north of the Scottish Mainland, from which it is separated by the turbulent Pentland Firth. There are 20 populated islands.

Mainland, the largest island, is also the most populous and has the two main settlements: Kirkwall and Stromness.  The remaining islands include Hoy, Sanday, North Ronaldsay, Eday, Shapinsay and Westray and Papa Westray, which linked by the shortest scheduled air route in the world!

Orkney is low-lying and, although much of it is covered by heather, it is also surprisingly fertile, barley, potatoes, turnips and grass being grown. However beef cattle and sheep are the Orkney’s main crops - and Orkney beef and lamb is truly outstanding.

Fishing is another important industry, as is tourism, however the greatest attention is now being given to the emerging marine energy industry - tidal and wave power. The Pentland Firth and other waters around Orkney are amongst the best in the world for tidal power and this area is a world-leader in the field.

While Orkney’s future in marine energy is exciting, its past is fascinating. With some of the world’s most outstanding Neolithic monuments (build by the first farmers of the “New Stone Age” up to 6,000 years ago) and a plethora of  more recent - but still ancient - monuments, Orkney more than justifies its international recognition as “The Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site”. Visits to Skara Brae, Maes Howe and the Ring of Brodgar are essential for any visit, as is a wander round Stromness and St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall. Orkney’s wartime past can also be seen in the Churchill Barriers around Scapa Flow and, most memorably, in the nearby Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners of war.   

Orkney is rich in flora and fauna - seals, otters, whales and dolphins, and great and arctic skuas all being seen on or off the coasts. Orkney also attracts a lot of rare vagrants - birds blown in from distant parts - and the islands attract ornithologists and twitchers from all over the UK and beyond.   

You can enjoy walking, sailing, wreck-diving, kayaking, fishing, cycling and more

Orkney can be reached by air (car hire is readily available on arrival and there is also an excellent public transport network) or by ferry from the North Mainland.

Peedie at the House of Brough, Orkney

This quirky wing of  the House of Brough, an 18th Century former Lairds House, has a much more contemporary feel than that of the main house yet is still steeped in history.

Danvia, Orkney

Danvia house is a brand new holiday home and has been finished to an extremely high standard, 5 star accommodation ensures your stay will be unforgettable.

Lighthousekeepers Cottage 2, Orkney

North Ronaldsay's spectacular location and ferocious seas give the island a wonderful romantic history of shipwrecks, treasure troves, rescues and skilful seamanship.

The Old Granary Quoy, Orkney

Quintessentially Orcadian, this stunning converted barn is located at Houton Bay and captures the spirit of Orkney.

Khyber Pass Cottage, Orkney

Khyber Pass Cottage is a rare gem, completely unique yet quintessentially Orcadian and especially representative of Stromness.

Old Bank House, Orkney

Located on the shore, in the peaceful and picturesque town of St Margarets Hope on Orkney's South Ronaldsay is a superb holiday home, perfect for a fantastic break to the stunning and enchanted Islands of Orkney.

House of Brough, Orkney

Steeped in history, this late 18th Century traditional former Lairds house offers luxurious accommodation on the Island of Westray in Orkney.

Blustery Braes, Orkney

Blustery Braes is a unique family holiday home.  Situated on one of the best locations on the Island the house is just five minutes drive from the quaint town of Stromness, yet is in a rural area and has spectacular panoramic views over the Pentland Firth and the dramatic landscape of the Island of Hoy.

Ayre Mills Apartment, Orkney

Now transformed into comfortable apartments this historic building is an iconic landmark in Kirkwall, Orkney’s biggest town.