Things To Do
in Kirkwall

Fresh Orkney scallops are often seared and served in restaurants around Kirkwall—seek them at harbour-side restaurants and seafood specialists.

Must-Try!

Locally smoked fish can be found in markets and cafés; try it on brown bread or as part of a seafood platter.

Island-reared lamb, noted for its flavour; available at many restaurants and farm shops.

A hearty smoked-fish soup common across northern Scotland and widely available in Kirkwall cafés and pubs.

Small local markets and seasonal stalls offer fresh produce, baked goods and smoked fish—check local listings for market days and pop-up street food events.

During summer you may find temporary stalls or café vans near the harbour selling fresh shellfish and fish suppers.

Be polite, patient and wait your turn—Orcadians value courtesy and quiet friendliness.

Treat archaeological and historical sites with care—do not climb on fragile stones or remove artifacts, and follow onsite guidance.

On country roads, give way to livestock and agricultural vehicles; close gates if asked and never disturb farm animals.

Ask permission before photographing people or photographing on private land—many locals appreciate being consulted.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory—rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service in restaurants is common; bartenders and café staff are not usually tipped, and drivers or guides may be tipped for exceptional service.

Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in Kirkwall, but small stalls or remote island shops may be cash-only—carry some British pounds (GBP) and check ATM availability.

Long daylight hours, generally milder weather and the busiest tourist season—best time for boat trips, birdwatching and island hopping; book ferries and tours in advance.

Quieter than summer with crisp days and dramatic skies—good for storm watching, photography and seeing migratory birds; some services start to reduce frequency.

Short daylight hours, colder temperatures and higher likelihood of wind and stormy seas—ferries and flights are more easily disrupted; indoor attractions and festivals keep things lively.

Longer days and countryside coming to life with lambing and nesting seabirds—ideal for wildlife photographers and those who prefer fewer crowds.

Coastal walks along rugged cliffs with sea stacks and dramatic views—excellent for photography and birdwatching but watch cliff edges and wind.

A tidal causeway leads to a historic island with archaeological remains and good seal-spotting—time your visit to the tide and bring waterproof footwear.

A longer trip involving a short ferry to Hoy and inland walking to dramatic coastal stacks and cliffs—one of the most iconic climbs/views in Orkney, weather permitting.

Flat, atmospheric walks around Neolithic stone circles and wetlands—great for low-effort walking combined with archaeology and birdlife.

On the Orkney Mainland, a short drive from town—serves regional flights to Aberdeen, Inverness, Glasgow and other Scottish airports via Loganair; convenient for quick island access.

Major northeastern Scotland airport with direct flights to Kirkwall in high season or regional connections; travel to Orkney by plane or combine with ferry options.

Offers regional flights and is a mainland gateway to the north—connects to Kirkwall by short flights and works well for combining mainland Highlands touring with Orkney.

Ferry services link Scrabster (near Thurso) to Stromness on Orkney; from Stromness it's a short drive to Kirkwall—useful for those arriving by road from the north of Scotland.

Vegetarian options exist but are fewer than in mainland cities—most cafés and restaurants can provide veggie mains, soups and salads; call ahead for more choice at smaller establishments.

Vegan choices are available at larger cafés and some restaurants, but options may be limited—pack snacks or check menus in advance, and communicate needs clearly when ordering.

Many places can accommodate gluten-free diets; ask about cross-contamination if you have coeliac disease and confirm with the chef when possible.

Because seafood is central to local menus, always inform staff of allergies—many kitchens are used to accommodating requests but extra care is advised.