Campsites in Orkney

Orkney provides plenty to see and do, with dramatic coastline and many interesting heritage sites, there really is something for everyone to enjoy. It includes a whopping 70 islands, each with its own unique atmosphere. Coastal views, nature reserves and opportunities to spot local wildlife are all around.

Our favourite things to see and do

• Island hopping
• Northern Lights
• Skara Brae

Ancient mysteries

Get a taste for ancient history with the landmarks and heritage buildings dotted around. The Ring of Brodgar is a fascinating Neolithic henge and stone circle. Just as mysterious as Stonehenge are the Standing Stones of Stenness, which are best seen at sunrise and sunset - the sun makes the perfect photo opp.

In the same area you'll find Maeshowe, a Neolithic chambered cairn and passage grave which dates back over 5000 years - the graffitti here is runes that date back to the Viking conquest. Stop off at the Iron Age fortress at the Broch of Gurness where the village is incredibly intact and it looks out over sweeping views.  The islands are littered with charming churches such as St Margaret's Hope that are worth visiting too. 

If the secrets of the Neolithic people spark your interest, take a tour around the Tomb of the Eagles. This chance find has proved to be full of treasures - where you can see the weapons, totems and more of long lost inhabitants.

For fans of all things quirky there is the Orkney Wireless Museum, a haven for tinkerers with an impressive amount of WW2 radio nostalgia. The Orkney Fossils and Heritage Museum is another must see, where your mind will be boggled by evidence of evolution and you'll find sweet treats in a great cafe for after.

Castles you say? Make for Shapinsay which is set near to the Orkney mainland. Its sandy beaches are sure to draw your attention and it has Balfour Castle (dating from the 17th century) looking like it might be home to sleeping beauty.

Military marvels

War history fans will certainly have heard of Scapa Flow, which was an important naval base - tranquil today but once a hotbed of activity. The natural harbour connects to the famous Churchill Barriers and you can walk along these historic chains.

Pause a moment at the spot where The Royal Oak battleship sunk and get to know its incredible story. 

Remote beauty

Walks on the islands are abundant and you may wish to try the Brough of Birsay which is a small island off Orkney mainland accessible only via the causeway at low tide. Yesnaby offers views of the stunning old red sandstone cliffs and sea stacks. The Loch of Stenness is another popular spot, and a more challenging walk can be taken up Ward Hill on Hoy. 

Many parts of the UK have been formed into eyewatering shapes, but the Old Man of Hoy on the South Isles of Hoy and Flotta really defines the trend. It's a lonely seastack that makes a real challenge for climbers or a good place for a mooch along the seafront. 

Best for getting a flavour of the area is an island hopping boat tour. A nippy boat will speed you off to see a series of unique spots and tours can be customised to suit different groups.

Before you set sail for the mainland, how about a bite of some clootie dumplings and a chance to learn a few words in the local dialect? Get back to civilisation a little with a trip to the Pier Arts Centre which boasts an impressive collection of British fine art and a look at the arts and crafts scene on the isles.