Hazel Rickett, travel expert at tour operator Rabbie’s, has named Orkney one of the UK’s best hidden destinations for a summer escape. The archipelago lies off Scotland’s northeastern coast, has a population of 22,000 and is made up of around 70 islands. Kirkwall is the main town on the largest island, Mainland. The islands encompass Neolithic sites, tall sandstone cliffs and seal colonies.
Rickett said of Orkney: “Located off Scotland’s north coast, Orkney is a fascinating island destination and a fantastic choice for a summer escape. Known for its rich history, coastal scenery and unique culture, it offers plenty to discover beyond the mainland.”
She added: “Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Heart of Neolithic Orkney, including Skara Brae and the Stones of Stenness, as well as picturesque harbour towns, beautiful beaches and dramatic coastlines. During the summer months, the long daylight hours make it an especially rewarding place to explore.”
A 5,000-year-old landscape
The Heart of Neolithic Orkney is a group of 5,000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Sites on Mainland. It includes Skara Brae, a preserved village, and Maeshowe, a chambered burial tomb that incorporates 12th-century Viking carvings.
Other landmarks include the 12th-century St Magnus Cathedral, the Italian Chapel built during World War Two, and Highland Park Distillery, a whisky producer established in the 18th century. The islands also contain numerous small towns and villages to explore.
Wildlife and wreck diving
Orkney is a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to see seals, otters, osprey, seaweed-eating sheep and whales. It is also home to one of the best wreck diving sites in the world, where numerous battleships rest in a sheltered anchorage.
Temperatures average 4C in winter and 12C in summer. Winter daylight lasts around six hours, with the sun staying very low in the sky, while summer daylight reaches more than 18 hours, followed by twilight rather than darkness.
Getting to Orkney
The islands can be reached by an hour-long flight from Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness and Glasgow. Regular ferries also run from Aberdeen, Gills Bay, Scrabster and John O’Groats.
