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.

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.

Orkney, Scotland

Brough of Birsay

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

Orkney, Scotland

Cuween Hill Cairn

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

Orkney, Scotland

Tomb of the Eagles

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

Orkney, Scotland

Maeshowe

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

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.

Atlas Obscura Trips

Inside the Fringe: Festival Season in Edinburgh

Experience the world's premiere performance festival as an Edinburgh insider.

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Visiting Scotland Tips	4 September 17, 2019	1204	September 17, 2019
Glasgow City Chambers' Staircase	4 October 9, 2019	717	October 9, 2019
Paisley Abbey's 'Alien' Gargoyle	2 November 1, 2019	1164	November 1, 2019
Glasgow Cathedral's Hebrew Inscriptions	2 July 10, 2019	790	July 10, 2019
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shannonelizabethmcguire wants to go to Tomb of the Eagles

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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