Kirkwall

Telling the story of Orkney, all the way from the Stone Age to the present day, the Orkney Museum contains an internationally important collection of artefacts and historical items. A packed programme of temporary exhibitions, covering a wide range of Orkney related subjects, along with activities for all the family, make the museum an essential stop on a tour of Kirkwall.

Nestling behind the Orkney Museum, Tankerness House and Gardens is an oasis of peace and tranquillity in the bustling heart of Kirkwall.

Located on Pickaquoy Road, this modern fitness and leisure centre, swimming pool and cinema is open to the general public.

See Inside: https://goo.gl/maps/jwStWnZg2b52

Situated on Kirkwall’s harbour-front, the Orkney Distillery is the ideal attraction for gin enthusiasts looking for a quality visitor experience in the heart of Orkney’s main town. Distillery tours run at 11am and 2pm each day (except Sundays) with extra tours added for peak times.

This unique museum contains a fascinating and eclectic collection of domestic radio sets and rare wartime communications equipment. There is a small admission charge for entry to the museum.

See Inside: https://goo.gl/maps/2YThJPnnxRv

The Bishop's Palace was built in the 12th century as residence for the Norse Bishop, William the Old, around the same time as construction was taking place on the nearby St Magnus Cathedral. In the 17th century the Bishop's Palace was incorporated into a refined Renaissance palace commissioned by Earl Patrick Stewart, one of Orkney's most notorious rulers.

In addition to being the most northerly whisky distillery in Scotland, Highland Park is a five star visitor attraction offering a fascinating insight into the process of creating what has been described as ‘the best spirit in the world.’ A range of tour and tasting packages are available.

Founded in 1137 and dedicated to the martyred Magnus Erlendsson, Earl of Orkney, St Magnus Cathedral is one of the islands’ most significant landmarks, dominating the skyline of the City and Royal Burgh of Kirkwall.

Built over a 300-year period, using distinctive red and yellow Orcadian sandstone, St Magnus is the most northerly cathedral in the UK and is unique in that it is owned by the people of Orkney, rather than the church. Guided tours of both the lower and upper levels of the Cathedral are available, with the spire offering breathtaking views across Kirkwall.

Visit Scotland’s tourist information centre for Orkney, providing friendly advice for visitors, along with a range of local gifts, produce and books. Free Internet access.

The St Magnus Centre is a meeting place, visitor centre, arts venue and place for quiet contemplation where you can view the short film The Saga of St Magnus, explaining the history of the Cathedral. The centre also serves hot and cold drinks and snacks. Situated behind St Magnus Cathedral, with access from Palace Road.

Hatston is Scotland’s longest deep-water commercial berth at 385 metres and 10.5 metres draft. The berth also plays an important part in Orkney’s marine energy industry, serving as a base for tidal power developers and support companies. A complimentary shuttle bus operates from here to the Kirkwall Travel Centre, with the journey into town taking approximately seven minutes.

Kirkwall Travel Centre is the pick up and drop off point for the complimentary shuttle service to the cruise ship berth at Hatston Pier. You’ll also find the local Visit Scotland Tourism Information Office here, along with the bus station for services throughout the Orkney Mainland.

Award winning Library and Archive loacted in Junction Road. Public welcome.