From Kirkwall – Orkney Mainland Private Tour

Explore Orkney’s Ancient and Natural Wonders in a Private 7-Hour Tour from Kirkwall

This private tour from Kirkwall offers a comprehensive journey through Orkney Mainland’s most significant sites in approximately 7 hours. Priced at $531.49 per person, it provides the convenience of pickup at your preferred address and an all-inclusive experience featuring entrance tickets to key attractions such as Skara Brae, Skaill House, Broch of Gurness, and the Italian Chapel. The tour is highly recommended, with a 5.0 rating based on 45 reviews, and most bookings made around 95 days in advance.

What sets this tour apart is its private nature, allowing you to explore at your own pace with a professional local guide. Guests consistently praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility, making this a tailored experience well-suited for those interested in archaeology, history, and scenic landscapes. Even with a compact schedule, the tour covers the main highlights of Orkney’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

While the price might seem steep for some, reviews highlight the value of personalized attention, seamless logistics, and entrance tickets included, which eliminate the hassle of planning individual visits. This tour appeals to travelers who want a comprehensive, stress-free experience with the flexibility to customize stops based on interests.

Key Points

• Private 7-hour tour from Kirkwall includes entrance tickets to key sites like Skara Brae and Skaill House
• Price of $531.49 per person, with pickups offered at your preferred location
• Highly rated at 5.0/5, praised for knowledgeable guides and personalized service
• Includes notable stops such as Scapa Flow, Unstan Cairn, Standing Stones of Stenness, Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae, Skaill House, and the Italian Chapel
• Flexible itinerary with opportunities to adjust based on your interests
• Best suited for archaeology fans, history buffs, and those seeking a private, relaxing day

Starting Point and Logistics of the Private Tour

This tour departs directly from Kirkwall with pickup and drop-off services at your preferred address on the island. The round-trip transportation ensures that logistics are straightforward and stress-free, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the day. The private setting also means the itinerary can be tailored to your pace and interests, an advantage over group excursions.

The vehicle used is private, and the entire experience is designed to maximize comfort and flexibility. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to participate fully, thanks to the manageable schedule and accessible stops. The timing allows you to see all major sites without rushing, with some stops lasting between 20 to 2 hours.

Discovering Scapa Flow: The Natural Harbour and War History

The tour begins with a visit to Scapa Flow, a historic and scenic natural harbor off the coast of Scotland. This site is renowned not only for its archaeological importance but also for its fascinating war stories, which the guide explains in detail. Visitors can appreciate the vast waterscape that played a key role during wartime and learn about its significance in Orkney’s maritime history.

Spending about an hour at this stop, guests enjoy soaking in the views and learning about the harbor’s military and archaeological past. The admission is free, making this an accessible introduction to the day’s exploration.

Unstan Chambered Cairn: Neolithic Burial Site and Unique Architecture

Next, the tour visits the Unstan Chambered Cairn, built approximately 5000 years ago. This communal burial site features a distinctive stalled cairn design, with internal divisions called staills and a single side cell. The 40-minute stop offers a close look at this unusual Neolithic monument, giving insight into early burial practices.

Admission to this site is included, allowing you to explore the interior chambers and imagine the community that built it. The internal divisions and original construction techniques make this site a highlight for those interested in prehistoric architecture.

The Standing Stones of Stenness: One of Britain’s Oldest Megalithic Structures

The Standing Stones of Stenness date back to 3100 BC and feature four massive megaliths that once formed part of a larger stone circle. Today, only four stones remain of what was originally a twelve-stone circle, with some stones reaching six meters in height.

This 20-minute stop invites guests to marvel at the ancient craftsmanship and imagine the ritual or ceremonial purposes of these stones. The site’s historic significance makes it a core part of Orkney’s prehistoric landscape.

The Ring of Brodgar: The Iconic Neolithic Stone Circle

The Ring of Brodgar is regarded as the finest Neolithic stone circle on the British Isles. It is a hauntingly beautiful site, with a circular arrangement of massive stones that served as a site for rituals and ceremonies over early Bronze Age times.

Spanning about 40 minutes, this stop provides ample opportunity for photos and reflection. As one of the most striking landmarks on the tour, the ring’s atmosphere and scale leave a lasting impression.

Skara Brae and Skaill House: A Neolithic Village and Historic Manor

The main highlight of the tour is the Skara Brae archaeological site, which is one of the best-preserved stone-built Neolithic villages in Europe. Constructed over 5000 years ago, the circular stone houses reveal how early humans lived, worked, and organized their communities.

The 2-hour stop includes admission tickets to Skara Brae and Skaill House, a historic manor overlooking the Neolithic settlement. Skaill House offers additional context and architectural interest, situated with views of the Bay of Skaill.

Because of the well-preserved nature of Skara Brae, visitors can walk through the ancient homes, gaining a vivid picture of prehistoric life in Orkney.

The Italian Chapel: WWII History and Architectural Beauty

The final stop is at the Italian Chapel, a fascinating WWII structure built by Italian prisoners of war. The well-known church is notable for its artistic interior and historical significance, symbolizing the peaceful memory of wartime.

Spending about 40 minutes here, guests learn about the story of its construction, the prisoners’ artistry, and the meaning behind the chapel. Admission is included, and the guide shares insights into its fascinating history.

Included Features and Optional Additions

This tour’s admission tickets to Skara Brae and Skaill House are included, along with pickup and drop-off services at your preferred location on Kirkwall. The private tour format ensures personalized attention, and group discounts may be available.

The flexible itinerary allows guides to adapt based on your interests, and the professional local guide enhances your understanding of each site. The round-trip transportation covers all logistical details, so there is no need to worry about parking or directions.

Review Highlights and Guide Quality

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—notably Marlene, Chris, David, Leslie, and Gary—for their friendly demeanor and insightful commentary. Many mention how guides personalize the experience, focusing on sites of particular interest, and manage the timing effectively.

Guests also appreciate the comfort of private transportation, which allows for more relaxed visits and the chance to adjust the schedule. The admissions included at major sites and the focus on archaeological and natural highlights are noted as excellent value.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers a rundown, some reviews suggest that timing at certain sites could feel rushed, especially for larger groups. Plus, costs can seem high, but with all tickets included and the personalized service, many guests find the experience well worth the price.

Travelers should be prepared for moderate walking at some sites, and the itinerary is best suited for those with an interest in archaeology, history, and scenic landscapes. The weather can impact the tour, so it’s wise to dress appropriately.

Why Choose This Tour for Your Orkney Visit

This private tour from Kirkwall provides a convenient, tailored experience that covers Orkney’s most famous archaeological sites and scenic landmarks. It is ideal for visitors who value expert guidance, comfort, and flexibility during their day of exploration.

The inclusion of entrance tickets and pickup service simplifies logistics, making it a stress-free way to see the island’s highlights. Reviewers repeatedly highlight the quality of guides and the interest level of the stops, particularly Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, and the Italian Chapel.

This tour is best suited for archaeology enthusiasts, history lovers, and travelers who prefer private, customizable experiences over large group tours. The 7-hour duration strikes a good balance between seeing the sights and enjoying the scenery without rushing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes tickets to Skara Brae and Skaill House, round-trip transportation, pickup and drop-off, and the services of a professional local guide.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 7 hours, covering all the major sites listed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the private nature of the tour allows the guide to adjust stops based on your interests.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but some stops involve moderate walking. It’s best for those interested in archaeology and history.

What should I wear or bring?
Dressing appropriately for outdoor exploration and unpredictable weather** is recommended. Bring comfortable shoes and a camera for photos.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less than 24 hours’ notice will not be refunded, and weather-related cancellations may lead to rescheduling or refunds.