Orkney Islands, Ancient archipelago in northern Scotland
The Orkney Islands consist of 70 islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland, with 20 inhabited areas covering 990 square kilometers of land.
Norse settlers colonized the islands in 875, establishing control until 1472 when James III of Scotland annexed them due to an unpaid Norwegian dowry.
The Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae represent significant Neolithic monuments within the UNESCO World Heritage site, dating back more than 5,000 years.
Regular ferry services and flights connect the islands to mainland Scotland, while local buses link settlements with transportation terminals throughout Orkney.
The islands generate 130 percent of their electricity needs through renewable sources, leading initiatives in wind power and marine energy production.
Location: Scotland
Capital city: Kirkwall
Website: http://orkney.gov.uk
GPS coordinates: 59.00000,-3.00000
Latest update: May 31, 2025 12:08
Skara Brae
20.3 km
Knap of Howar
39.2 km
Ring of Brodgar
13.2 km
Old Man of Hoy
27.9 km
Maes Howe
10.8 km
Highland Park distillery
4.3 km
Ness of Brodgar
12.4 km
Stones of Stenness
11.9 km
Heart of Neolithic Orkney
10.8 km
Italian Chapel
13.8 km
St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall
3.1 km
Tomb of the Eagles
29.3 km
Unstan Chambered Cairn
14.3 km
Midhowe Chambered Cairn
18.3 km
Balfour Castle
6.3 km
Broch of Gurness
14.6 km
Barnhouse Settlement
11.9 km
Scar boat burial
41.3 km
Dwarfie Stane
22.1 km
RNAS Hatston
1.6 km
Skaill House
20 km
Mine Howe
10.9 km
Bay of Skaill
20.2 km
Earl's Palace
3.2 km
Ness Battery
18.4 km
Midhowe Broch
18.4 km
Earl's Palace
23.3 km
Hall of Clestrain
14.1 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes