Northern Islands
Northern Islands of Orkney & Shetland. Some of the largest towns in the area are Kirkwall, Stromness
Where to Stay
Visit our Accommodation guides including our guide on Hotels for the best places to stay.
Places to eat out
Orkney:
The Foveran Restaurant & Room: This restaurant in Kirkwall is known for its modern Scottish cuisine, with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
Helgi’s: This restaurant in Kirkwall offers a range of traditional Scottish dishes, including fresh seafood, as well as international cuisine.
The Creel Restaurant: This restaurant in Stromness is known for its fresh seafood, with a menu that changes daily depending on what’s available.
The Orkney Hotel: This hotel in Kirkwall offers a range of dining options, from casual pub grub to fine dining in its Ba’ Bar & Lounge.
Shetland:
Fjara Cafe Bar: This restaurant in Lerwick offers a range of seafood dishes, as well as vegetarian and vegan options, in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
The Scalloway Hotel: This hotel in Scalloway offers a range of dining options, including fresh seafood and traditional Scottish dishes, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Frankie’s Fish & Chips: This restaurant in Brae is famous for its award-winning fish and chips, made with fresh Shetland haddock.
Da Steak Hoose: This restaurant in Lerwick offers a range of locally sourced meat dishes, including Shetland lamb and beef, as well as vegetarian options.
Where are the best places to Shop
Attractions to visit in Northern Islands
Some of the best attractions on Orkney and Shetland include:
Orkney:
Skara Brae: This is a well-preserved prehistoric village dating back over 5,000 years and is one of the most important Neolithic sites in Europe.
The Ring of Brodgar: This is a circular stone formation consisting of 27 standing stones, believed to have been erected between 2500 and 2000 BC.
Maeshowe: This is a large burial mound that dates back to around 2800 BC and contains one of the largest and best-preserved collections of Viking runes in the world.
The Italian Chapel: This is a beautiful chapel constructed by Italian prisoners of war during World War II using only salvaged materials.
Shetland:
Up Helly Aa: This is an annual Viking fire festival that takes place in January and is one of the largest and most spectacular events in Scotland.
Jarlshof: This is a remarkable archaeological site that contains evidence of human settlement spanning over 4,000 years.
Mousa Broch: This is an Iron Age broch, a type of round tower, that is remarkably well-preserved and provides a fascinating insight into ancient Shetland.
Lerwick Town Centre: This is the main town in Shetland and features a charming mix of traditional and modern architecture, as well as a bustling harbour and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Overall, Orkney and Shetland have a wealth of historical and cultural attractions that make them fascinating places to visit.
What are the main events in the Northern Islands
Orkney and Shetland have several exciting events throughout the year that attract visitors from all over. Here are some of the main events in the area:
Orkney:
Orkney Folk Festival: This is a three-day music festival held in May every year, featuring traditional and contemporary folk music from local and international artists.
St Magnus International Festival: This is a 10-day arts festival held in June every year, featuring a diverse range of events, including music, dance, theatre, and literature.
Orkney Nature Festival: This is a week-long celebration of the natural world in Orkney, with a range of guided walks, talks, and workshops exploring the islands’ wildlife and landscapes.
Orkney Agricultural Show: This is a two-day event held in August every year, featuring livestock competitions, horse shows, trade stands, and entertainment for all ages.
Shetland:
Up Helly Aa: This is a famous fire festival held annually in January, featuring torch-lit processions, a spectacular burning of a Viking galley, and lively celebrations throughout the night.
Shetland Folk Festival: This is a four-day music festival held in May every year, featuring traditional and contemporary folk music from local and international artists.
Shetland Boat Week: This is a week-long celebration of Shetland’s maritime heritage, with a range of events including boat trips, sailing races, and exhibitions of traditional boats and fishing gear.
Shetland Wool Week: This is a week-long celebration of Shetland’s world-renowned wool industry, with a range of workshops, talks, and tours exploring the islands’ rich textile heritage.
