Showing results for orkney

Historic places in Orkney

Orkney boasts over 5,000 years of history. Discover historic sites to visit on this special group of islands and islets.

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

Enter Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, one of the finest Neolithic buildings in north-west Europe, a masterpiece of ancient engineering.

Bishop's and Earl's Palaces, Kirkwall

Discover Kirkwall's oldest surviving domestic building along with its ornate and ambitious neighbour.

Links of Noltland

See archaeologists excavate prehistoric settlements that were protected by sand dunes for thousands of years.

Brough of Birsay

Explore a spectacular island of Pictish, Norse and medieval remains, which can only be accessed at low tide.

Scalloway Castle

Discover Scalloway Castle, the formidable tower house of “Black Patie" whose tyranny left a deep mark on Shetland.

Midhowe Chambered Cairn

Visitors can explore inside the tomb via the raised walkways.

St Mary's Chapel, Crosskirk

St Mary’s Chapel in Caithness was probably built in the 1100s, though the religious significance of the site may date back further.

Views sought on the future of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney

Views sought on the future of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site.

Our Ranger Service

Our Rangers can help with queries about our work in Holyrood Park, Linlithgow Peel and at the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site.

Plan a free self-led learning visit

Free educational visits make Scotland’s heritage accessible to learners of all ages. Here's all the information you need.

Our apps

Our free apps help you to plan and track your adventures in Scotland and explore our sites in exciting and interactive ways.

What is World Heritage?

Explore what it means to be a World Heritage Site and learn more about how these sites are managed.

250-year-old shipwreck discovered in Orkney gives up its secrets

Archaeologists undertake scientific analysis and community-led historical research to identify 250-year-old Sanday wreck.

Contact our Rangers

Get in contact with our Rangers who are based at the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site, Holyrood Park and Linlithgow Peel.

What our volunteers do

Discover the diverse volunteer roles that we offer.