Highland Park Distillery, Kirkwall & central Mainland

A mini guide to

Kirkwall & central Mainland: tips and FAQs

Local know-how and common questions

Local know-how

Tips for visiting

Check the cathedral before you go

Orkney Museums says St Magnus Cathedral may occasionally close for weddings or funerals, and staff may limit access when it is busy.

Book the big two early

Maeshowe and Skara Brae are sold as timed tickets on the Historic Environment Scotland website; book before you travel in summer.

Watch for weather warnings

Mainland buses are suspended for the length of any Met Office amber warning and may be cancelled at short notice in a yellow warning.

The Ba' at Christmas

On Christmas Day and New Year's Day the Ba' game fills the streets around the cathedral; expect crowds and closed streets.

Festivals

Orkney festivals and events

Dates are from each organiser's own website or, for the Ba', from its published custom; check before you book.

St Magnus International Festival

18 to 25 June 2027

Music, theatre, visual arts and literature by artists from Orkney, Scotland and around the world; the programme is announced in spring 2027.

St Magnus International Festival →

Kirkwall Ba' games

Christmas Day and New Year's Day

A medieval street football game played through the centre of Kirkwall twice a year; when either day falls on a Sunday, the game moves to the Monday.

Wikipedia: Kirkwall Ba' Game →

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Where is Kirkwall & central Mainland?

Kirkwall & central Mainland is in Orkney Islands, Scotland. Orkney's main town: St Magnus Cathedral, the palaces, the Orkney Museum and Neolithic tombs close by. Nearby stops and stations include Kirkwall Airport, Kirkwall ferry terminal, Kirkwall.

How long do I need in Kirkwall & central Mainland?

A day for the town, plus half a day for the cairns and earth houses. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.

What are the highlights?

Highlights include St Magnus Cathedral, Bishop's and Earl's Palaces, The Orkney Museum. See the Things to do page for more.

How do I get there?

Nearby: Kirkwall Airport (Loganair flights); Kirkwall ferry terminal (NorthLink Ferries); Kirkwall (Stagecoach buses); Kirkwall pier (Orkney Ferries). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.

Where can I eat and drink?

We list 22 places to eat and drink in and around Kirkwall & central Mainland, with filters to help you choose.

Where should I stay?

We list 18 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.

Is Kirkwall & central Mainland accessible?

Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.

While you are here

Things to see in Kirkwall & central Mainland

A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.

Things to do

Scapa Distillery

Whisky distillery on the shore of Scapa Flow, half a mile south of Highland Park, with a visitor centre offering tastings.

Things to do

Wideford Hill Chambered Cairn

Well-preserved tomb about 5,000 years old with a high central chamber and three cells, entered through the roof; inside is rare Neolithic scratch art.