Must see attractions in Orkney & Shetland

Two miles south of Kirkwall's centre, on the shores of Scapa Flow, this is one of two Orcadian whisky distilleries and, though less famous than Highland…

On a farm at Tankerness, the mysterious Iron Age site of Mine Howe is an eerie underground chamber, about 1.5m in diameter and 4m high. Its function is…

This picturesque, sturdy 16th-century tower house in Unst's southeastern corner was built by Laurence Bruce, foud (bailiff) of Shetland, who was, by all…

At the southern end of Hoy, Longhope’s former lifeboat launching station holds a small lifeboat museum, centred around one of the old boats itself, the…

Built in 1781, this fort occupies the site of an earlier fortification built in 1665 to protect the harbour from the Dutch navy. The five-sided fortress…

For tips on wildlife-watching, duck into the Hermaness Visitor Centre, near the entrance to the Hermaness National Nature Reserve. You can also learn the…

This small producer distils the Shetland Reel gin that you see around the place. Its version infused with local seaweed is well worth a try. Their plan is…

Unst has the highest concentration of Viking longhouse sites in the country. The Viking Unst project manages three excavation sites, and has as its…

If it’s sunny and you’re thinking about a picnic, head to Waulkmill Bay, between Kirkwall and Orphir. The huge sandy beach is perfect for strolling and…

The Bressay Heritage Centre is by the ferry dock and has an exhibition on Bressay life and history, as well as information about the mysterious Bronze Age…

About 4 miles from the Shapinsay pier, at the far northeastern corner of the island, is Iron Age Burroughston Broch, one of the best-preserved brochs …

This curious little museum is jam-packed with old radios and war memorabilia. Mostly local in character, it's an impressive collection.

This small display has photos and exhibits on Fair Isle's natural history, crofting, fishing, archaeology and knitwear.