3-Day Orkney & The Far North Tour from Inverness: Churchill Barriers and Kirkwall

Over the sea to the Orkney Isles…
Your journey begins as we head north from Inverness, passing the spectacular coastal views of the Moray and Cromarty Firths. Then it's time to board the ferry for a memorable crossing to St Margaret's Hope, the gateway to Orkney. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals, and other marine wildlife during the hour-long journey.
Orkney lies so far north that in summer the sun sets as late as 10:30 pm, giving you extra daylight to explore. This remote archipelago includes over 70 islands, of which around 20 are inhabited. You'll be staying on Mainland Orkney, the largest island in the group.
Explore Orkney's Unique Nature
Once on the island, soak in the windswept beauty and look out for rare wildlife like the tiny purple Primula Scotica and charismatic puffins. Orkney's remote location has allowed many unique species to thrive. You'll also learn about the island's unusual geography, shaped by glacial erosion, and visit what's believed to be the UK's oldest natural woodland.
Discover WWII History - Italian Chapel & Churchill Barriers
Orkney played a vital role during the Second World War. You'll visit the beautifully preserved Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners of war who later became paid workers after Italy joined the Allies. Nearby, you'll see the impressive Churchill Barriers, a series of causeways constructed to protect the British naval fleet from enemy submarines.

Ancient Orkney: Neolithic Marvels & Norse Heritage
From your base in Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, you'll spend the day exploring the island's ancient past. Kirkwall itself is charming, with its narrow lanes, old stone buildings, and the ruins of the Bishop's Palace and Earl's Palace. It's also home to Highland Park Distillery, the northernmost whisky distillery in the UK.
Walk Among Europe's Best-Preserved Neolithic Sites
Orkney is a treasure trove of prehistoric sites. You'll visit:
* Maeshowe - a stunning Neolithic chambered cairn
* Skara Brae - Europe's most complete Neolithic village, hidden for centuries and uncovered after a storm in 1850
* The Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar - majestic stone circles that form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site
These incredible monuments reveal a world from over 5,000 years ago - older than the pyramids of Egypt.
Visit the Northernmost Cathedral in Britain
Finish the day at the awe-inspiring St Magnus Cathedral, a striking Romanesque structure founded in the 12th century as the final resting place of Magnus the Martyr, Earl of Orkney. At that time, Orkney was part of Norway, and the Norse influence is still felt across the islands.

Journey South via John O'Groats & Dunrobin Castle
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Kirkwall, browsing local craft shops or walking along the harbour. Late morning, we board the ferry back to the Scottish mainland and begin our journey south along the northern coastline.
Visit John O'Groats - The End of the Road
We stop at John O'Groats, the northernmost point on the British mainland and a great spot for panoramic views and photos. From here, you can see both the east and west coasts of the UK - a rare and beautiful sight.
Step Into a Storybook at Dunrobin Castle
Next, we explore the fairytale-like Dunrobin Castle, the most northerly of Scotland's grand estates. With its French chateau-style architecture, manicured gardens, and centuries of history, this is one of the most elegant castles in the Highlands. It's also Britain's oldest continuously inhabited stately home, formerly owned by the Dukes of Sutherland.
Afterwards, relax and enjoy the Highland scenery as we make our way back to Inverness.