Map of Kirkwall, United Kingdom

🏰 What to do in Kirkwall

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Kirkwall with a variety of activities to suit every budget. From exploring ancient sites to enjoying scenic walks, Kirkwall has something for everyone.

• Best Budget Activity in Kirkwall:

  St. Magnus Cathedral: Marvel at the stunning architecture of this historic cathedral and learn about its fascinating medieval origins.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Kirkwall:

  Orkney Museum: Dive into the heritage of Orkney with intriguing exhibits showcasing the island's archaeology, art, and folklore.

• Best Luxury Activity in Kirkwall:

  Orkney Gin Distillery Tour: Indulge in a premium gin tasting experience at a local distillery, where you can learn about the distillation process and savor unique flavors.

🍽️ Where to eat in Kirkwall

Discover the culinary delights of Kirkwall with its diverse range of dining options. From traditional Scottish dishes to fresh seafood, Kirkwall offers a feast for your taste buds.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Kirkwall:

  The Reel•$-$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Scottish comfort food

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Kirkwall:

  Helgi's•$$-$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Modern European cuisine

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Kirkwall:

  The Foveran•$$$-$$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fine dining with a focus on local ingredients

• Best Budget Bar in Kirkwall:

  The Bothy•$:

  Pint of local craft beer

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Kirkwall:

  The Ayre Hotel•$$-$$$:

  Classic cocktail with a view

• Best Luxury Bar in Kirkwall:

  The Orkney Hotel•$$$-$$$$:

  Premium single malt whisky

🏰 What to see in Kirkwall

Explore the historical wonders and cultural gems that await you in Kirkwall. From ancient ruins to grand cathedrals, Kirkwall is a treasure trove of fascinating landmarks.

• St. Magnus Cathedral:

  A magnificent medieval cathedral with intricate architecture and a rich history dating back to the 12th century.

• Bishop's Palace:

  A well-preserved medieval palace exhibiting ornate stonework and serving as a testament to Kirkwall's past grandeur.

• Ring of Brodgar:

  An impressive Neolithic stone circle surrounded by mystical aura and captivating views of the Orkney landscape.

• Orkney Museum:

  A treasure trove of Orkney's heritage, showcasing artifacts, art, and exhibits that offer insights into the island's culture and history.

• Maeshowe:

  An ancient chambered tomb known for its intricate Viking runes and fascinating archaeological significance, providing a glimpse into Orkney's past.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Kirkwall

Discover the vibrant shopping scene of Kirkwall, offering a mix of local boutiques, craft stores, and trendy shops for every budget. Whether you're seeking unique souvenirs or high-end fashion, Kirkwall has something to satisfy every shopper.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Kirkwall:

  Judith Glue: A charming store offering a variety of handmade Orkney knitwear, jewelry, and gifts at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Kirkwall:

  Ba' Co-op: A popular local cooperative showcasing a range of products from Orkney artisans, including pottery, textiles, and food items.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Kirkwall:

  Sheila Fleet Jewellery: Explore exquisite jewelry designs inspired by Orkney's landscapes and heritage, crafted with quality materials for a luxurious shopping experience.

🚎 Getting Around Kirkwall

• Public Transport

  In Kirkwall, the primary mode of public transportation is the bus system operated by Stagecoach. Bus services cover most areas of the town and connect to surrounding areas in Orkney. The standard adult fare for a single journey within Kirkwall is around £1.90, with discounts available for children, students, and seniors. Buses typically operate from early morning until late evening, with less frequent services on weekends and public holidays. Timetables and route maps are available on the Stagecoach website.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  The main transportation hub in Kirkwall is the Kirkwall Bus Station located in the city center. From here, passengers can access various bus routes serving different parts of Kirkwall and the wider Orkney Islands. Kirkwall does not have a train station or metro system. The nearest airport is the Kirkwall Airport, located approximately 5 miles from the city center.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: Several car rental companies operate in Kirkwall, such as Avis, Europcar, and Enterprise. Prices for car rentals start at around £30 per day, depending on the vehicle type and rental duration. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: For those looking to explore Kirkwall on two wheels, bicycle rental services are available from local shops like Orkney Cycle Hire and K-Way Adventures. Prices for bicycle rentals typically start at £10 per day, with options for long-term rentals at discounted rates.