Orkney Island-Hopping: Your Guide to Exploring the Archipelago

Discover guides and stories about Island-Hopping Guides in the Orkney Islands

Orkney is more than just its Mainland; it's a captivating archipelago of around 70 islands, each whispering unique tales of history, nature, and community. Island hopping is the key to unlocking Orkney's full diversity. This guide provides essential tips for navigating between the isles, whether you're planning ambitious day trips or multi-day explorations. Discover how to reach islands famed for dramatic sea stacks, ancient tombs, or abundant wildlife, and find practical advice on transport and timing. Ready to venture beyond Kirkwall and Stromness? Let's explore the logistics and highlights of Orkney's incredible island network. Don't forget to check our Travel Planning guide for ferry and flight basics.

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Eday, Orkney: Stone of Setter, Tombs & Visitor Guide

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Eday, Orkney: the 4.5m Stone of Setter, Neolithic chambered tombs, red-throated divers and a pirate's downfall — a full guide to this quiet, historic isle.

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Stronsay, Orkney: Vat of Kirbister, Beaches & Day Trip

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Stronsay, Orkney's Island of Bays: the Vat of Kirbister sea arch, three great bays of white sand and a wild herring-boom past — a full visitor guide.

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North Ronaldsay, Orkney: Seaweed Sheep & Lighthouse

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North Ronaldsay, Orkney's northernmost isle: the seaweed-eating sheep, Britain's tallest land-based lighthouse and world-class bird migration.

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Balfour Castle, Shapinsay: Visit Guide & Orkney Day Trip

May 24, 2026

Balfour Castle on Shapinsay, 25 minutes from Kirkwall: David Bryce's Scottish Baronial calendar house, the Iron Age Burroughston Broch and RSPB Mill Dam.

Island-Hopping Guides

Papa Westray (Papay), Orkney: Shortest Flight & Day Trip

May 25, 2025

Papa Westray in a day: Loganair's 90-second world-shortest flight, the 3800 BCE Knap of Howar and the North Hill RSPB reserve — plus how to book the trip.

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Sanday, Orkney: Beaches, Quoyness Cairn & Island Guide

May 17, 2025

Sanday, Orkney: Cata Sand and miles of white beaches, the Quoyness chambered cairn, island wildlife and how to get there — a full visitor guide.

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Rousay, Orkney: Midhowe Broch, Cairns & Ferry Guide

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Rousay, Orkney's 'Egypt of the North': Midhowe Broch and Cairn, Taversoe Tuick and the Westness Walk — plus ferry crossings and how to plan a day trip.

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Exploring Westray: The Queen of Orkney's Northern Isles

April 27, 2025

Discover Westray, Orkney's "Queen o' the Isles." Explore Noup Head's seabird cliffs, Castle o' Burrian's puffins, Noltland Castle, and the ancient Westray Wife. Plan your visit with ferry/flight info, accommodation tips, and more.

Island-Hopping Guides

Hoy, Orkney: Old Man, Dwarfie Stane & Visitor Guide

April 3, 2025

Old Man of Hoy 137 m. St John's Head 350 m. The Dwarfie Stane and Scapa Flow Museum. Ferry options, the famous walk and how to plan a Hoy day-trip.

How do I travel between the Orkney islands?

The primary way is via Orkney Ferries, which operates reliable services connecting the Mainland (from Kirkwall, Stromness, Tingwall, Houton) to 13 different islands. Routes vary in frequency and duration. For faster travel, especially to the North Isles like Westray and Papa Westray, Loganair offers inter-island flights from Kirkwall Airport, including the world's shortest scheduled flight! Booking is essential for both ferries and flights, particularly in summer.

Which islands are best for a day trip from the Mainland?

Several islands are easily accessible for rewarding day trips. Hoy is popular for its dramatic landscapes, including the Old Man of Hoy sea stack and Rackwick Bay (accessible from Houton or Stromness). Rousay, known as the "Egypt of the North," is packed with archaeological sites and reached via a short ferry ride from Tingwall. South Ronaldsay, connected by the Churchill Barriers, offers the famous Italian Chapel and is easily explored by car or bus from Kirkwall.

Do I need to book inter-island transport in advance?

Yes, booking is highly recommended, especially during the peak season (May-September) and if you plan to take a vehicle. Passenger space can sometimes be available last minute, but vehicle slots on Orkney Ferries fill up quickly. Inter-island flights with Loganair also require advance booking. Planning ahead ensures you secure your spot and avoids disruption to your itinerary. Our Seasonal Experiences guide has more on peak times.

Can I take a car to the other islands?

Most Orkney Ferries routes accommodate vehicles, making it convenient to explore islands like Hoy, Shapinsay, Rousay, Westray, and Sanday with your own car. However, vehicle spaces are limited and must be booked well in advance. Some smaller islands or specific routes may have restrictions. Alternatively, consider renting bikes or using local transport/taxis upon arrival on certain islands. Check the Practical Resources section for car hire info on the Mainland.

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Orkney Island-Hopping: Your Guide to Exploring the Archipelago

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I travel between the Orkney islands?

Which islands are best for a day trip from the Mainland?

Do I need to book inter-island transport in advance?

Can I take a car to the other islands?

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