8 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Orkney - Atlas Obscura

Unusual
Attractions
in Orkney

Orkney, Scotland

Ring of Brodgar

The true age of this ancient stone circle is unknown, but its stunning vista isn't in question.

tylercole

Added by tylercole

Orkney, Scotland

The Stones of Stenness

Possibly the oldest of Britain's ancient henges is also one of its most stark.

Orkney, Scotland

Old Man of Hoy

A red sandstone freestanding monolith rises out of the sea in northern Scotland.

rachaelcosta

Added by rachaelcosta

Orkney, Scotland

Brough of Birsay

This tiny island featuring 9th century viking ruins is only accessible at low tide.

wmorden

Added by wmorden

Orkney, Scotland

Cuween Hill Cairn

Enter the world under the hill at this ancient UK burial chamber.

AlexKohan

Added by AlexKohan

Orkney, Scotland

Tomb of the Eagles

This Scottish burial tomb once held hundreds of ancient eagle bones.

Added by embentley1

Orkney, Scotland

Maeshowe

Thanks to both terrific preservation and historic vandalism this ancient site is known as the "Heart of Neolithic Orkney."

Added by DuncanGibson

Orkney, Scotland

The Italian Chapel

This tin chapel was built by POW's during World War II and is painted to look like something much more grand.

Added by vibrantgreen

Atlas Obscura Trips

Scotland: Highland Clans and the Trail of Tartan

Ross Jennings

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Stories
About Orkney

These women weren't just dropping by. See the trowel in her hand?

The Female Archaeologists of the Scottish Orkneys Were Hiding in Plain Sight

The women in this century-old photo weren't visitors—they were probably scientists.

by Jessica Leigh Hester

A fairly unusual sight: Sheep share the shore with seals, known as "selkies" in Orcadian dialect.

The Uncertain Future of North Ronaldsay's Seaweed-Eating Sheep

Concerned islanders are rethinking old traditions to ensure the survival of this very special breed.

by Karen Gardiner

August 22, 2017