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Highlights of Kirkwall

Kirkwall

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Kirkwall is a great base for exploring Norse ruins situated around the archipelago, as well as Neolithic stone formations created by civilisations far older and more mysterious than the Vikings

First mentioned in a Norse saga in the 11th century, you will still find traces of the Vikings in the Orkney Isles’ main town. At the heart of Kirkwall stands St Magnus Cathedral, founded in memory of Magnus Erlendsson, the Earl of Orkney from 1108 to 1117 and a relative of Norwegian Kings Olav II and Harald II. In fact, the name Kirkwall originally comes from the Norse name Kirkjuvagr (Church Bay).

Kirkwall is a great base for exploring Norse ruins situated around the archipelago, as well as Neolithic stone formations created by civilisations far older and more mysterious than the Vikings. With around 10,000 residents, this bustling market town is easy to cover on foot, with other notable historical sites to visit including the 12th century Bishop’s Palace and 17th century Earl’s Palace.

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Tours including Kirkwall

You could experience Kirkwall through any one of these tours below.

Scotland
Privately Guided
14 days / 13 nights
Apr - Oct

Complete Scotland - Private

8015GBP

Eur

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14 days / 13 nights
Apr - Oct
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Scotland
Best seller
Self-drive
14 days / 13 nights
4.8
Apr - Oct

Complete Scotland

Scottish Highlands & North Coast 500

2771GBP

Eur

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Best seller
14 days / 13 nights
Apr - Oct
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Scotland
Best seller
Self-drive
17 days / 16 nights
4.7
Apr - Oct

Grand Tour of Scotland

Scottish Highlands & North Coast 500

3403GBP

Eur

View map
Best seller
17 days / 16 nights
Apr - Oct
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Scotland
Best seller
Self-drive
12 days / 11 nights
4.6
Apr - Oct

Classic Scotland & The Orkney islands

2319GBP

Eur

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Best seller
12 days / 11 nights
Apr - Oct
Close map view
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