Orkney
Just across the harbour from Whitehall is the small island of Papa Stronsay, where Earl Rognvald Brusason was murdered in 1046. The island is owned by a…
Must-see attractions in Orkney & Shetland
Shetland
This museum has a medley of curious objects (pipes, piano, a doll in cradle, tiny bibles, ships in bottles and a sperm-whale jaw), as well as an archive…
Lerwick
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…
Orkney
This pretty church stands near the shore surrounded by a picturesque graveyard. Papa Westray was the cradle of Christianity in Orkney, and this was…
Shetland
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…
Orkney
This is one of Orkney's largest private houses, undergoing some much-needed repair at the time of research. The grounds, with their thicket of native…
Shetland
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…
Shetland
Unst has the highest concentration of Viking longhouse sites in the country. The Viking Unst project manages three excavation sites, and has as its…
Shetland
A mile east of Eshaness, a side road leads south to the Tangwick Haa Museum, housed in a restored 17th-century house. The wonderful collection of old B&W…
Orkney
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…
Shetland
Set in outbuildings of the local laird's house, now a school, this centre has an exhibition on the island's history, covering its fishing industry and…
Shetland
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…
Orkney
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 …
Orkney
In the centre of North Ronaldsay island, the New Kirk holds an interesting exhibition of B&W photos that document various aspects of North Ronaldsay life.
Kirkwall
This curious little museum is jam-packed with old radios and war memorabilia. Mostly local in character, it's an impressive collection.
George Waterston Memorial Centre
Shetland
This small display has photos and exhibits on Fair Isle's natural history, crofting, fishing, archaeology and knitwear.
Shetland
Not far from the ferry to Unst and Fetlar, this gallery has rotating exhibitions of Shetland artists and craftspeople.
