The Origins of Orkney 2025
Enjoy a 3 night stay in delightful Kirkwall as we uncover the history and origins of Orkney. Our guided tour will explain much about the wealth of culture of this unique island, whilst a day in Kirkwall offers a host of opportunities for independent discovery and tastings.
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Overnight in Caithness
We arrive at our overnight hotel in Caithness in time for dinner
Day 2 Ferry to Orkney
After a leisurely breakfast we head to Scrabster to catch the lunchtime ferry to Orkney, on arrival in Stomness we make our way to our hotel.
Day 3 Guided tour of Orkney
Today we are joined by a local step-on guide who will accompany us for the day, telling stories and breathing life into this magical island. Our tour of the island will include visits to the ancient settlement of Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar to view the standing stones, the Italian Chapel which was built by Italian prisoners during WWII, and a drive along Scapa Flow.
Day 4 Kirkwall Driver Day Off
We have the whole day to explore Kirkwall at leisure. A good starting place is the Highland Park Distillery, where craftsmen have been making whisky since 1798. If gin is preferable, then choose The Orkney Distillery, a new option, with its roots based in Norse ancestry. Otherwise, St Magnus Cathedral on Broad Street is worth a visit, or perhaps the Orkney Museum or a stroll through the historic town and harbour.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we catch a morning ferry to the mainland and begin our journey home. Speak with the sales team if you require further overnight hotels booked.
Day 1 Overnight in Caithness
We arrive at our overnight hotel in Caithness in time for dinner
Day 2 Ferry to Orkney
After a leisurely breakfast we head to Scrabster to catch the lunchtime ferry to Orkney, on arrival in Stomness we make our way to our hotel.
Day 3 Guided tour of Orkney
Today we are joined by a local step-on guide who will accompany us for the day, telling stories and breathing life into this magical island. Our tour of the island will include visits to the ancient settlement of Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar to view the standing stones, the Italian Chapel which was built by Italian prisoners during WWII, and a drive along Scapa Flow.
Day 4 Kirkwall Driver Day Off
We have the whole day to explore Kirkwall at leisure. A good starting place is the Highland Park Distillery, where craftsmen have been making whisky since 1798. If gin is preferable, then choose The Orkney Distillery, a new option, with its roots based in Norse ancestry. Otherwise, St Magnus Cathedral on Broad Street is worth a visit, or perhaps the Orkney Museum or a stroll through the historic town and harbour.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we catch a morning ferry to the mainland and begin our journey home. Speak with the sales team if you require further overnight hotels booked.

Ayre Hotel
Kirkwell, Orkney
Located across the road from the shore and close to the Kirkwall’s pier, this traditional island townhouse offers a warm welcome. The 55 bedrooms, which are split between the main building and adjoining annex are comfortable and furnished with solid wood and include TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is a public bar with stools and pool table as well as a delightful lounge/residents bar with contemporary and elegant soft furnishings, perfect for a catch up after a day sightseeing. The restaurant is stylish and bright and is spread into different areas, including some seating in the conservatory, offering choice in elegant surroundings.






Ayre Hotel
Kirkwell, Orkney
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £580pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £146
Inclusions
1 Night Half Board at Castletown Hotel (or similar) & 3 Nights Half Board at Ayre Hotel
• Return ferry crossings Scrabster - Stromness
• Guided tour of the island
• Entrance to Scara Brae
• Entrance to Italian Chapel
Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.
Call to tailor this tour 01732 879191
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