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

Poetry and Music in the Scottish Lowlands

See the lowlands through the eyes of one of Scotland’s most celebrated poets, exploring old port towns and ancient fortresses, sipping single malt whisky, and wandering the breathtaking landscapes that inspired the beloved bard.

Community Forums / U.K. & Ireland / Scotland

Top Discussions in the Scotland Travel Forum

Post	Replies	Views	Activity
Visiting Scotland Tips	4 September 17, 2019	1485	September 17, 2019
Glasgow City Chambers' Staircase	4 October 9, 2019	1048	October 9, 2019
Paisley Abbey's 'Alien' Gargoyle	2 November 1, 2019	1498	November 1, 2019
The Drovers Inn	2 October 30, 2019	1408	October 30, 2019
Glasgow Cathedral's Hebrew Inscriptions	2 July 10, 2019	1028	July 10, 2019

New Post Visit the Forum

Explore Orkney, Scotland

Launch Map

Orkney Leaderboard

Places Added

Places Edited

Places Visited

Recent Orkney Activity

lukefishfrench wants to go to The Italian Chapel

lukefishfrench wants to go to Maeshowe

lukefishfrench wants to go to Cuween Hill Cairn

lukefishfrench wants to go to Brough of Birsay

lukefishfrench wants to go to Old Man of Hoy

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