What to do in Kirkwall

Activities, attractions and tours

Kirkwall
Kirkwall
Kirkwall
Kirkwall
Kirkwall

Kirkwall Attractions

Let Expedia help you to experience the best that Kirkwall has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to Kirkwall, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to Kirkwall with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Places of interest in Kirkwall

Kirkwall is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in Kirkwall, and make it a breeze to explore Kirkwall and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Kirkwall to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit to Kirkwall, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in Kirkwall.

Kirkwall attractions

Kirkwall has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in Kirkwall to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Kirkwall.

Looking for things to do in Kirkwall can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of Kirkwall or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Kirkwall attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails!

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What to do in Kirkwall

Popular places to visit

St. Magnus Cathedral

St. Magnus Cathedral

4.5/5(33 reviews)

Examine the intriguing 17th-century tombstones housed inside this stunning sandstone cathedral.

St. Magnus Cathedral
Earl's Palace

Earl's Palace

4/5(13 reviews)

Take a tour of this impressive 17th-century ruin, considered to be among the finest examples of French Renaissance architecture in Scotland.

Earl's Palace
Bishop's Palace

Bishop's Palace

4/5(13 reviews)

Explore the ruined remains of this 12th-century palace and see the views from the top of its spiral staircase.

Bishop's Palace

Highland Park Distillery

5/5(6 reviews)

Find out about the history of Kirkwall when you spend time at Highland Park Distillery. Stroll along the waterfront or visit the cathedral while you're in the area.

Highland Park Distillery

Orkney Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Orkney Museum during your trip to Kirkwall. Stroll along the waterfront or experience the area's museums.

Orkney Museum

Scapa Distillery

You can take time to visit Scapa Distillery during your travels to Kirkwall. You can enjoy the bars while in the area.

Scapa Distillery

Scapa Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Scapa Beach during your trip to Kirkwall? You can enjoy the bars while in the area.

Scapa Beach

Orkney Wireless Museum

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Orkney Wireless Museum during your trip to Kirkwall. Discover the area's museums and cathedral.

Orkney Wireless Museum

The Pickaquoy Centre

Enjoy an outing to The Pickaquoy Centre during your stay in Kirkwall. You can enjoy the bars while in the area.

The Pickaquoy Centre

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Frequently asked questions

Is Kirkwall worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to enjoy the local charm and cultural attractions or sample unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do in Kirkwall.
How do I spend a day in Kirkwall?
Kick your day off with a visit to Balfour Castle and Scapa Beach. Then, check out other parts of Kirkwall for a quick bite and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kirkwall?
The top tourist attraction in Kirkwall is Balfour Castle, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Kirkwall?
If you just want to see the leading sights, three days is more than enough time for a getaway in Kirkwall. Stay for seven to ten days for the chance to really appreciate the local vibe, tour nearby highlights and discover some hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Kirkwall with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Check out our ideas for what to do in Kirkwall with kids.

What to do in Kirkwall for adults?
Highland Park Distillery and Orkney Wine Company are just a few of the things to do in Kirkwall. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Kirkwall?
From enjoying parks to strolling around hip neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Kirkwall. If you're stuck for ideas, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Scapa Beach is a top spot for anyone looking to save on their travel adventures.

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