Exploring the Orkney Islands by car, you’ll be met with ancient ruins and stunning views. With Kirkwall as your base, you can discover all that the Orkney Islands have to offer at your own pace.
The Heart of Neolithic Orkney
No trip to Orkney is complete without exploring a collection of ancient sites known as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Just a 30-minute drive east of Kirkwall, here lies the large chambered tomb of Maeshowe (believed to be built around 2800 BC), two ceremonial stone circles, the Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, as well as the settlement of Skara Brae.
South Ronaldsay
A picturesque drive south from Kirkwall over the Churchill Barriers leads to the island of South Ronaldsay. Here you’ll find several ancient chapels and the Tomb of the Eagles – a Neolithic chambered tomb built 5,000 years ago. Thousands of bones and artefacts have been excavated at this intriguing location. Perched on a clifftop, this Stone Age tomb is one of the most important archaeological sites on the Orkney Islands.
With so much to see on Kirkwall, you’re spoilt for choice. But from the comfort of your rental car, it’s easy to see it all at your leisure.