Northern Islands

Introducing Northern Islands

The group of windswept islands north of Mainland provides a refuge for migrating birds and a nesting ground for sea birds; there are several RSPB reserves. Some of the islands are also rich in archaeological sites, but it’s the beautiful scenery, with wonderful white-sand beaches and lime-green to azure seas, that is the main attraction.

The tourist offices in Kirkwall and Stromness have the useful Islands of Orkney brochure with maps and details of these islands. Note that the ‘ay’ at the end of each island name (from the Old Norse for ‘island’) is pronounced ‘ee’ (Shapinsay is pronounced shap-in-see).

Orkney Ferries (01856-872044) enables you to make day trips to many of the islands from Kirkwall on most days of the week (Friday only to North Ronaldsay), but it’s really worth staying for at least a few nights.

Last updated: Apr 21, 2009