Discover the Mysteries of Orkney on a Day Trip from Stromness
If you’re yearning to see some of the most captivating ancient sites of the UK, this Orkney Day Trip from Stromness might just be your best bet. Starting at just over five hours and costing around $160 per person, this tour offers a compact yet rich experience of the islands’ highlights. It meets the ferry from Scrabster, making it a seamless option for those based in or near Orkney’s main town.
What sets this tour apart? First, we love the small group size of just 8 participants, which makes for a more personal and engaging experience — perfect for asking questions and snapping photos without feeling crowded. Second, the expert guides are praised repeatedly for their impressive knowledge and friendliness, ensuring you’ll get a meaningful understanding of each site.
On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for cruise ship guests or wheelchair users, given the departure from Stromness and certain accessibility limitations. Also, since ferry fares aren’t included, you’ll need to budget for that separately. This trip is ideal for those eager to pack in the major highlights of Orkney in a manageable, well-organized day, especially if you appreciate the company of a small group and a guide who truly knows their stuff.
Key Points
- Small-group format ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
- Expert guides provide engaging commentary and historical insights.
- Authentic sites like Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, and Stenness are highlights for history lovers.
- Stunning scenery like the Cliffs of Yesnaby offers memorable views.
- Flexible free time in Kirkwall or visiting the Italian Chapel adds options.
- Ferry costs are separate from the tour price, so plan accordingly.
An In-Depth Look at the Orkney Day Trip Experience
We found this tour to be a well-balanced mix of iconic sites, scenic views, and local charm. It’s designed to give you a taste of what makes Orkney special, without the need for an extended stay. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect and why it matters.
Starting Point: Stromness Ferry Terminal
The tour kicks off just outside the Stromness Ferry Terminal, a convenient location for travelers arriving from the mainland. The meeting point is straightforward — look out for the minibus with “Orkney Travel” written on the side. From here, you’ll hop into a cozy vehicle that comfortably seats up to 8 people, ensuring a relaxed environment for the day ahead.
Scenic Drive and First Stops
Soon, your guide will start sharing fascinating tidbits about the islands’ geology, flora, and economy. The first brief stops, including a 15-minute photo opportunity, set the tone for what’s to come — scenic vistas and a sense of anticipation. We appreciated how the guide kept information flowing throughout the journey, making every pause feel purposeful rather than just a routine break.
Skara Brae and Skaill House
One of the tour’s crown jewels is the visit to Skara Brae, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic village remarkably preserved beneath the sands. It’s easy to see why this UNESCO World Heritage site is so revered; the reconstructed stone dwellings and layout give an intimate glimpse into prehistoric life.
The visit includes a guided tour lasting about 1.5 hours, which allows enough time to appreciate the site’s significance without feeling rushed. The nearby Skaill House, a stately manor, offers a look into more recent history and adds variety to the experience.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Magnificent Ring of Brodgar and Stenness Stones
Next, the tour moves to the Ring of Brodgar, a massive stone circle that sparks the imagination. The site, with its towering stones and open landscape, invites questions about its purpose and the people who built it. The guide’s commentary is insightful, enriching your understanding of what makes this monument special.
Adjacent is the Standing Stones of Stenness, a slightly smaller but equally evocative circle. Here, we had a quick 15-minute photo stop, but many found it enough to soak in the atmosphere and snap memorable images.
Free Time in Kirkwall or the Italian Chapel
After a busy morning of site visits, you’re given around an hour of free time in Kirkwall, the main town of Orkney. Many reviews highlight the value of this break, with suggestions for local eateries, shops, or simply wandering around to absorb the town’s character.
Alternatively, for an extra £20 per person, you can visit the Italian Chapel — a beautifully decorated WWII chapel built by Italian prisoners of war. This adds an interesting historical dimension but requires choosing it over the free time in Kirkwall.
Scapa Flow and Unstan Tomb
The route continues to Scapa Flow, famed for its maritime history, especially during the World Wars. The tour also includes a visit to the Unstan Tomb, another ancient burial site that provides insight into early Neolithic practices.
Final Stops and Return
The last part of the tour includes a brief guided stop at the Unstan Tomb and a scenic drive back to Stromness, arriving in plenty of time for the ferry back to the mainland. The entire itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize sight coverage without feeling overly rushed.
Why This Tour Excels
We loved the impressive knowledge of the guides — reviewers consistently mention guides like Douugie and Rachel, who go above and beyond to share their insights and help with photos. Their friendly approach enhances the experience, making history come alive.
The stunning scenery, from dramatic cliffs to ancient stone circles, is the kind of backdrop you’ll never forget. The Cliffs of Yesnaby, with their rugged beauty, are a highlight for nature lovers, offering some of the best views on the islands.
What Could Be Better?
While the tour is thorough, it’s worth remembering that ferry fares are not included in the price, so you’ll need to budget for those separately. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for cruise ship guests or those with mobility issues, owing to location logistics and the walking involved. The vehicle’s limited width might feel a bit tight for some, especially if you prefer more spacious seating.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for history buffs, scenery seekers, and small group travelers who value personalized attention. If you’re interested in Neolithic sites, enjoy scenic landscapes, and prefer a more intimate tour setting, this trip ticks all those boxes.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This small-group day trip offers a fantastic way to see the best of Orkney in a manageable time frame. The combination of expert guides, iconic sites, and scenic views makes it a worthwhile choice, especially if you want an authentic experience without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets yourself.
The price reflects good value considering the entry fees to sites like Skara Brae and the personalized attention from guides who are passionate about sharing the islands’ stories. The limited size ensures that you won’t feel lost in a crowd, making for a more relaxed and engaging day.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Orkney’s charm.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
No, this tour is not suitable for cruise ship guests because the departure point is 15 miles from the cruise port. For cruise travelers, the Orkney West Mainland Tour is recommended.
Are ferry fares included in the price?
No, ferry fares are not included. You’ll need to purchase your own tickets separately, so factor that into your planning.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip. Check the availability for specific starting times.
What sites are included in the tour?
The main sites are Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, Stenness Stones, the Unstan Tomb, and scenic spots like the Cliffs of Yesnaby. Plus, you have the option to visit the Italian Chapel for an extra fee or enjoy free time in Kirkwall.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to site accessibility and walking involved. The vehicle seats are between 48cm and 51cm wide, which might feel tight for some.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
This small but immersive journey through Orkney offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with ancient history, awe-inspiring landscapes, and charming towns, all within a thoughtfully organized day. Perfect for those who want a personal touch and meaningful insights, it’s a trip that leaves a lasting impression of these extraordinary islands.
You can check availability for your dates here: