Kirkwall, the capital town of mainland, the largest island in the group, is the business centre of the Orkney region. It is a bustling seaport and agricultural market town thus making it the shopping target for all Orcadians.
The harbour bustles with ferries, cargo ships, fishing boats and sailing craft from all over the world making it one very busy place.
The town centre evolves around Albert Street and consists of a wide variety of retailers and business offices.

The architecture of the buildings attracts a great deal of interest because of their quality and structure.

Kirkwall has its own airport which lies about three miles south of the town, unfortunately there isn't a bus service, so taxis are the order of the day.

For the visitor the town has a twelfth century cathedral, the ruins of the bishop's palace, the earl's palace and the museum of Orkney history. At Tankerness House the beautiful gardens attract many visitors.
Golf, fishing, cycling, rambling, sightseeing and boating are the other attractions plus of course, the two distilleries which are definitely a must.

For eats the town has many wonderful establishments from hotels, restaurants, cafes and takeaways.
Hotels, guesthouses, caravan and camping sites are available.

Ferries to Kirkwall are via Stromness from Aberdeen or Scrabster on the mainland.

Comments or photos to improve this page most welcome.

back to top

Hom

e