Skara Brae
Neolithic stone settlement beside the bay
Its surviving domestic rooms are the most direct encounter with Orkney's deep past.
Orkney, United Kingdom
Ideal: 3–5 daysBest: Apr–OctPrice: Expensive
In 60 seconds
Orkney in 60 seconds
Orkney's strongest story lies in the relationship between stone and sea. Skara Brae, Maeshowe and the Ring of Brodgar form a UNESCO-listed Neolithic landscape on Mainland, yet the islands also carry Norse history, small harbours and wind-scoured coast. Kirkwall makes a practical base; ferries and weather determine how far beyond Mainland you can go. Book access to limited-capacity sites rather than assuming a spontaneous visit.
Best for
- UNESCO
- Island
- Prehistory
Known for
- Skara Brae
- Ring of Brodgar
- St Magnus Cathedral
Skip if
You cannot allow for ferry or weather changes in a tight schedule.
Your match
Choose a few travel interests and we will show how well Orkney fits them. Choose interests
See
Must experience
The things that would make the trip incomplete without them.
Ring of Brodgar
Stone circle in an open ceremonial landscape
Walk slowly around the ring and keep to marked access.
St Magnus Cathedral
Norse-era sandstone cathedral in Kirkwall
The interior gives a different historical register after the prehistoric sites.
Beyond the obvious
Hidden gems
Less obvious, rarely queued for, and usually the part people remember.
Broch of Gurness
Iron Age settlement on the north coast
A quieter archaeological site with a strong coastal setting.
Stromness
Harbour town of narrow stone streets
Stay for the lanes and maritime feel beyond the main monument circuit.