Find your perfect car at Kirkwall
As the capital of the Orkney Islands, the vibrant historic market town of Kirkwall provides the perfect platform for exploring all that this beautiful Scottish archipelago has to offer.Pick up the keys to your hire car at Kirkwall and set out on the open road.
Plan your journey from Kirkwall
Mainland Orkney is awash with scenic drives. Packed with ancient sights, beautiful beaches and rugged coastlines, this is the perfect setting for an unforgettable road trip. In the centre of Kirkwall you’ll come across prime historic sights well worth exploring.The Orkney Museum is the perfect starting point to delve into local history from the Stone Age to the Viking era through to the present day. Other must-see sights include St Magnus Cathedral (regarded as one of the best examples of medieval architecture in northern Scotland), plus the ruins of the 12th-century Bishop’s Palace and the 17th-century Earl’s Palace – sat adjacent to each other.
Kirkwall is home to a variety of independent retailers selling locally produced wares, a number of which can be found at The Longship – a traditional shopping centre specialising in the likes of Orkney handicrafts, jewellery, clothing, food and wine. The Highland Park Distillery is also a top attraction in the city.
During your visit don’t bypass the southern side of Kirkwall, which overlooks Scapa Bay – a long white sand beach dramatically framed by cliffs. This area of natural beauty is also incredible for walking.
Beyond Kirkwall
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.