Orkney Day Trip

If you’re considering a visit to the Orkney Islands and only have a limited amount of time, a guided day trip might just be your best bet. We’ve come across this particular tour that promises to cover all the major highlights in just over five hours — and judging by the glowing reviews, it definitely seems worth exploring.

What really caught our attention are two things: the small-group approach, which usually means more personalized attention and less rushing, and the comprehensive itinerary that packs in the must-see sites. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for cruise ship guests because of the starting location, and there’s no included lunch, so some planning on your part might be needed.

This tour is best suited for first-timers to Orkney, or travelers with a tight schedule who want to maximize their day without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets. If you love guided tours that combine historical sites with scenic views and local insights, keep reading — this might just be the perfect day trip for you.

Key Points

• Small group size (maximum of 8) ensures a personal experience and more interaction with the guide.
• Expert guides like Dougie, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Convenient round-trip transport from Stromness Ferry Terminal, removing the stress of planning your own logistics.
• Visit iconic sites like Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness, with free time to explore Kirkwall.
• Value for money considering the included entrance fees and the personalized experience.
• Not suitable for cruise ship passengers because of the starting point, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The Yesnaby Cliffs: A Dramatic Welcome

The tour kicks off with a quick photo stop at the Yesnaby Cliffs, known for their striking, rugged scenery. This spot offers a fantastic introduction to Orkney’s wild coastline. With just 15 minutes here, you get a taste of the dramatic landscapes that make this part of Scotland so distinctive. It’s an ideal way to stretch your legs and soak in the views, especially since it’s a free stop without any entry fee.

Multiple reviews mention the scenic beauty of this area, with one traveler noting, “Enjoyed the views and the dramatic cliffs, a perfect quick stop to start the day.” It’s a good reminder that even short stops can be memorable when the scenery is so compelling.

Skara Brae: A Neolithic Treasure

Next, the tour visits the Skara Brae archaeological site, which is the highlight for many visitors. This well-preserved Neolithic village, dating back around 5,000 years, is a must-see. Guided tours here are detailed and engaging, giving you insight into how ancient people lived.

You’ll have about 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore the site, visit the visitor center, and maybe grab a snack at Skaill House or the café. The included entrance fee makes this stop especially good value — you won’t have to pay extra to see this incredible site.

One reviewer raved, “Garry was so knowledgeable about Skara Brae and took us through the fascinating history,” which really highlights how much you benefit from a guided experience. Keep in mind, Skara Brae’s popularity means it can get busy, but with a small group and a knowledgeable guide, you’ll get a more personalized visit.

The Ring of Brodgar: A Neolithic Wonder

Following Skara Brae, the tour takes you around the Ring of Brodgar, a massive stone circle that’s over 4,500 years old. The guided tour here is about 30 minutes, during which you’ll learn about its purpose and the stories that surround it.

The site’s remote location makes it feel like stepping back into a different time, and you’ll love the chance to snap photos of the stones against the expansive landscape. Several reviews note the guide’s ability to convey the history and significance of these ancient structures, making the experience more meaningful.

Standing Stones of Stenness

Just a quick 15-minute stop, the Standing Stones of Stenness are another neolithic site that adds depth to your understanding of Orkney’s ancient past. It’s a quick visit, but enough to get a sense of the craftsmanship and purpose of these standing stones.

Kirkwall: Free Time & Local Life

The tour offers an hour of free time in Kirkwall, the main town of Orkney. Here, you can stroll through the charming streets, browse shops, or grab a bite to eat. Many travelers appreciate this break to stretch their legs and soak up local atmosphere. The tour guide often recommends good spots for lunch or quick coffee, although bringing your own is also an option if you want to maximize your sightseeing.

Scapa Flow and War History

A drive around Scapa Flow provides an overview of Orkney’s important wartime history, especially its role during the world wars. While this isn’t a dedicated stop, the guide shares insights about the area’s significance, adding some context to your trip.

Unstan Chambered Cairn: A Hidden Gem

The final stop is the Unstan Chambered Cairn, a less-visited site with a guided tour lasting about 20 minutes. It’s a chance to see another layer of Orkney’s ancient history, and reviews indicate that this site is appreciated for its well-preserved remains.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personal and Engaging Guides

Reviews consistently mention guides like Dougie and Rachel — praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to answer all questions. One reviewer said, “Dougie was very passionate and informative; he responded to all questions quickly,” which shows the value of having a guide who’s invested in sharing their insight.

Hassle-Free Experience

We love that this tour takes care of the logistics, picking you up from the Stromness Ferry Terminal and providing round-trip transport. There’s no need to rent a car or navigate public transport, which can be tricky on a small island. Plus, the small group size ensures that everyone gets enough time at each site without feeling rushed.

Well-Organized and Time-Conscious

The itinerary is carefully planned to give you a good overview of the island’s highlights without overloading your day. Most reviewers say they felt the timing was just right, and the guide’s relaxed pace meant they could enjoy each place fully. The tour ends back at the meeting point in time for your ferry, which is a definite plus.

Cost and Value

At around $164 per person, this tour offers a lot — including entrance fees, bottled water, and guided commentary. Many reviews note that the experience is worth the price, considering the convenience and quality of the sites visited.

Things to Keep in Mind

Not Suitable for Cruise Ship Passengers

The tour starts from Stromness Ferry Terminal, so if you’re arriving via cruise ship, this may not be the best fit unless you’re already on the island.

Bring Your Own Lunch

While there are cafes at Skara Brae and Kirkwall, many travelers prefer to bring their own lunch to maximize sightseeing time. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so plan ahead if you want a sit-down meal.

Limited Seat Comfort

Seats in the vehicle are between 48-51cm wide, which may feel tight for some. If you’re concerned about comfort, consider purchasing an extra seat or bringing a cushion.

Weather Considerations

Weather can be unpredictable, and some reviews mention rainy or windy days; still, the sites are impressive in any weather, and the guide is prepared to adapt.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for first-time visitors to Orkney who want a rundown without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want to see the highlights like Skara Brae and the stone circles. The small-group nature and knowledgeable guides make it a more intimate, engaging experience, especially if you enjoy learning on the go.

Travelers who appreciate scenic views, history, and local insights will find this tour well worth the price. However, if you prefer more flexibility or are traveling with small children, you might want to consider other options or longer, more flexible tours.

The Sum Up

This Orkney day trip offers a well-rounded experience packed with history, stunning scenery, and local charm. The knowledgeable guides, especially Dougie and Rachel, bring the sites to life with their insights and friendliness, making the trip memorable beyond just the visuals. It’s a hassle-free way to get a good taste of what Orkney has to offer, especially if you’re pressed for time.

While the tour isn’t suitable for cruise ship passengers and doesn’t include lunch, the convenience, small-group intimacy, and access to key sites make it a solid choice for most travelers eager to see the highlights without fuss. Whether you’re a history buff or just someone who loves scenic, offbeat destinations, this tour could be a highlight of your Scottish adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship guests? No, because it starts from Stromness Ferry Terminal, so it’s best for travelers already on the island.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including stops and free time in Kirkwall, but it begins and ends at the same meeting point.

Are entrance fees included? Yes, the tour fee covers entry to Skara Brae and the Italian Chapel (if you opt for that site). Other sites like the Standing Stones and Ring of Brodgar are free.

What should I bring? It’s a good idea to bring some lunch, water, and weather-appropriate clothing. The vehicle seats may feel tight for some, so consider an extra seat if needed.

Can I customize the itinerary? Not really; the tour follows a set itinerary designed for efficiency and balance, but the small group size helps ensure some flexibility.

Is this tour good for families? While the reviews don’t specify family-friendliness, the moderate pace and engaging sites make it suitable for most travelers, but check with the provider if you’re traveling with very young children.

How many people are in the group? The maximum group size is 8 passengers, which helps keep the experience personal and relaxed.

What’s the price? Around $164 per person, a fair value considering the sites, guidance, and entrance fees included.

If you’re after a straightforward, immersive day on Orkney with a friendly guide to light the way, this trip offers a lot of what you’ll want — and very little of what you won’t.