Kirkwall

Orkney’s official tourism website

visit orkney kirkwall mapThe city and Royal Burgh of Kirkwall is the capital and administrative centre of Orkney. It is a Viking town that was founded around 1035 by Earl Rognvald Brusason. The name Kirkwall comes from the Old Norse, 'Kirkjuvagar' meaning 'church-bay' and refers to a much older church than the present day Cathedral. The original town is one of the best preserved examples of an ancient Norse town.

Kirkwall has a population of approx 7600 people and is the busy heart of Orkney with many things for visitors to see and do. Spend an afternoon exploring the main street and visit the quirky craft shops and cosy cafes. Kirkwall is also a great base for entertainment, listen to local music and enjoy some Orkney ale in the local pubs or nightclub.

  1. Tourist Information Centre – located beside St Magnus Cathedral on Broad Street. If you need help to book accommodation or advice on places to visit e.g. drop past to the visitor information centre.

  2. St. Magnus Cathedral - Founded in 1137 by Norse Earl Rognvald Kolson in memory of his uncle Saint Magnus. The Cathedral contains their remains, marvellous medieval grave markers and noted stained glass. Tours of the upper floor are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11am and 2pm and are bookable with the custodian (t.01856 874894). Open April to September inclusive Mon-Sat 9am – 6pm, Sundays 1pm – 6pm. October to March inclusive Mon-Sat 9am – 1pm, 2pm – 5pm. Admission is free. Please note that St Magnus Cathedral is a place of worship and visitor access is not always possible.

  3. The Orkney Museum - Tankerness House Museum and gardens is one of Scotland’s finest town houses, it contains a vivid introduction to Orkney's rich archaeology. Open May to September – Monday to Saturday 10.30am – 12.30 and 1.30pm – 5pm. Free admission to museum and gardens.

  4. St Magnus Centre – 15 minutes, multilingual film on St Magnus and St Magnus Cathedral. Coffee lounge and library. Admission free.

  5. The Bishop’s Palace – Mid-12th century Palace for Bishop William the Old. Rebuilt in the late 15th century and restored by Bishop Robert Reid in the mid 16th century. Open April – September 9.30am – 5.30pm. Open October – check sites for times.

  6. The Earl’s Palace – Built by Scottish Earl Patrick Stewart in 1600. Fine example of French Renaissance architecture. Open April – September 9.30am – 5.30pm. Open October – check sites for times.

  7. Bowling Green and Children’s Play Park

  8. Orkney Islands Council

  9. Orkney Arts Theatre - Amateur drama, opera and visiting performers. See posters or enquire locally at the tourist offices.

  10. Orkney County Library - Founded in 1683, the oldest public library in Scotland, now housed in a purpose built new facility. School resource centre, Orkney room and archivist facilities.

  11. Post Office

  12. Bus Station and Travel Centre

  13. Police Station  - telephone (01856) 872241

  14. NorthLink Ferries – tickets

  15. Orkney Wireless Museum- A fascinating collection tracing the history of early domestic radio and wartime communications in Orkney. Rare exhibits, wartime memorabilia and photographs. Open April – September, Mon – Sat 10am – 4.30pm, Sun 2.30pm – 4.30pm. Administration charge.

  16. Orkney Ferries Ticket Office

  17. Orkney Ferries: Shapinsay Terminal

  18. Orkney Ferries: All other North Isles Terminal

  19. Kirkwall Marina – A 95 berth marina within the harbour

  20. Orkney College - Education, training and lifelong learning opportunities for everyone

  21. Swimming Pool and Sports Centre

  22. Highland Park Distillery – 200 year old distillery with working floor maltings and peat kilns. Guided tours available April – end Oct 10am – 4pm every 30mins, Nov – March 2pm or on request, with audio visual and shop.

  23. Balfour Hospital & Health Centre

  24. Skateboard Park

  25. Pickaquoy Centre / Caravan & Camping Site - Orkney's premier leisure facility has something for the whole family; fitness suite, health suite, fitness classes, conditioning gym, cinema, children's adventure play area, cafe bar, sport arena, athletics track and all weather pitch.

  26. Kirkwall Golf Course - 18 hole Golf Course.

  27. NorthLink Ferries Terminal – departures for Aberdeen and Shetland.

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