- Kirkwall's name derives from the Old Norse 'Kirkjuvágr', meaning 'Church Bay', a reference to the cathedral founded in the Middle Ages.
- The city's street layout retains a unique medieval character known as the 'lang closes', narrow passageways designed to protect residents from the harsh North Atlantic winds.
- Kirkwall serves as the primary gateway to the Orkney archipelago, which holds one of the highest concentrations of prehistoric archaeological sites in Europe.
- Despite its northern latitude, the city experiences very little temperature variation throughout the year due to the influence of the North Atlantic Drift.
- Until the late 18th century, the city functioned as two distinct townships, known as the Burgh and the Laverock, which were separated by a stream.
About Kirkwall
Kirkwall is the administrative capital of Orkney, Scotland, distinguished by its deep-rooted Norse heritage and status as a vital maritime hub. The city is anchored by the 12th-century St Magnus Cathedral, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces, which reflect the complex political history of the Northern Isles. The local culture is further celebrated through annual events like the St Magnus International Festival, which draws international talent to this remote island location.
Highlights of Kirkwall
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Temples
See the stunning red and yellow sandstone architecture of this 12th-century cathedral.
Places of interest
Explore the contrasting architectural styles of the medieval Bishop's Palace and the Renaissance-era Earl's Palace.
Museums
View artifacts detailing Orkney's transition from Norse earldom to Scottish rule.
Historical places
Visit this Neolithic chambered cairn to see ancient stonework positioned with panoramic views over the Bay of Firth.
Beaches and ponds
Walk along the harbour to observe the active fishing and ferry traffic essential to island life.
Museums
Examine a historic collection of wireless and telecommunications equipment used in maritime navigation.
Venues
Experience world-class music and arts performances hosted annually in venues throughout the city.
Temples
Admire the prominent spire of this historic United Reformed Church that dominates the local skyline.
Top things to do in Kirkwall
The 73 highest-rated places in Kirkwall, ranked by travellers.
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Historical places
The Ring of Brodgar is a Neolithic henge and stone circle located on the Ness of Brodgar in Orkney, Scotland. Originally...
2
Places of interest
Skara Brae is an exceptionally well-preserved Neolithic stone-built settlement located on the Bay of Skaill in the Orkne...
3
Temples
The Italian Chapel on Lamb Holm is a highly ornate Catholic place of worship constructed by Italian prisoners of war dur...
4
Temples
St Magnus Cathedral is the northernmost cathedral in the United Kingdom, founded in 1137 by Jarl Rognvald Kali Kolsson....
5
Historical places
The Standing Stones of Stenness are the remains of one of the earliest henge monuments in the British Isles, dating to a...
6
Places of interest
The Broch of Gurness is an exceptionally well-preserved Iron Age drystone tower located on the Eynhallow Sound in Orkney...
7
Historical places
Birsay Earl’s Palace is a 16th-century ruin on the northern coast of Orkney, Scotland, built by Robert Stewart, 1st Earl...
8
Places of interest
Scapa Beach is a popular shingle and sandy shore located at the head of Scapa Flow in Orkney, Scotland. The area is hist...
9
Places of interest
Maeshowe is a Neolithic chambered cairn and passage grave located in Orkney, Scotland, part of the Heart of Neolithic Or...
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Historical places
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Places of interest
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Museums
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Museums
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Museums
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Places of interest
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Historical places
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Places of interest
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Museums
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Parks
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Zoos
21
Historical places
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Parks
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Museums
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Beaches and ponds
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Museums
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Places of interest
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Museums
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Parks
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Historical places
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Kirkwall on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Kirkwall
Late June to August, as this period offers the longest daylight hours and is when the annual St Magnus International Festival typically occurs.
2-3 days, allowing enough time to explore the city's historic core and use it as a base for surrounding Neolithic sites.
The city center is highly walkable, while the broader island is best accessed by rental car or the local bus network.
Stay in the town centre to be within walking distance of the historic cathedral and main transport links.
Mid-range; while accommodation and local produce are accessible, the cost of travel to and from the islands can fluctuate.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 73 curated attractions in and around Kirkwall, ranked by traveller ratings.
Ring of Brodgar is the highest-rated place to visit in Kirkwall right now.
The largest category is historical places, with 22 places to explore.
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