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Orkney West Mainland Tour

5.0202 reviewsDay trips

  • 6 hours
  • Free cancellation up to 24h before
  • Guided in English
  • Instant confirmation

Highlights

Discover the heart of Orkney on this immersive 6-hour West Mainland Tour, combining breathtaking scenery, ancient history, and authentic local stories. Journey through Scapa Flow, explore the mystical Stones of Stenness and Ring of Brodgar, and step back 5,000 years at Skara Brae. Experience the dramatic cliffs of Yesnaby, the haunting ruins of the Earl’s Palace in Birsay, and the timeless charm of Kirbuster Farm Museum. Led by friendly Orkney guides, this small-group tour offers a personal, relaxed way to uncover Orkney’s past and present — with plenty of photo stops and local insight along the way.

Inclusions

What's included

  • Skara Brae / Skaill House entrance fee

What's not

  • Lunch

Itinerary

  1. A scenic drive with amazing views of Scapa Flow, the main British naval base during both World Wars

    Passes by

  2. Guided tour of the best preserved neolithic village in Northern Europe, the 5000-year-old Skara Brae.

    1.3 hAdmission included

  3. Guided Tour of the henge monument Ring of Brodgar.

    30 min

  4. Photo stop at what is believed to be the oldest known henge monument in the UK

    15 min

  5. A photo stop at the dramatic Cliffs of Yesnaby

    15 min

  6. Discover the ruins of the Earl’s Palace in Birsay, a 16th-century residence built by the powerful and notorious Earl Robert Stewart. Once a grand Renaissance-style mansion overlooking the sea, the palace now stands in romantic ruin beside the remains of the medieval Bishop’s Palace. Nearby, explore the charming village of Birsay, with its traditional stone cottages and sweeping coastal views.

    30 min

  7. This historic Orkney farmhouse offers a fascinating glimpse into island life over the centuries, featuring a central peat fire, farming tools, vintage machinery, and beautiful gardens that reflect Orkney’s rural heritage.

    30 min

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

5.0

  • 5193
  • 49
  • 30
  • 20
  • 10

Ratings come from 202 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

Meeting point
Kirkwall Travel Centre, look for the minibus with "Orkney Travel" on the side.
Pickup
Everyone meets at the starting point; there is no pickup.
Ticket type
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group size
Up to 14 travellers
Operated by
Orkney Travel
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please note: The seats in our vehicle are between 48cm and 51cm wide. While there is generous legroom, the seat width may feel restrictive for some guests. If you think this may affect your comfort, you're welcome to purchase an additional seat. Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns – we're happy to help.

How it compares in United Kingdom, outside the cities

  • Its from-price is 45% below the median of the 91 day trips we list in United Kingdom, outside the cities.
  • Its length is typical for the group.
  • By number of reviews it ranks 2 of 91.
  • The operator lists free cancellation on it.

Special offers in United Kingdom, outside the cities

Was/now prices come from the operator, never from us.

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