Attractions and Places To See around Orphir - Top 20

Within Orphir itself, you can explore the significant remains of the Orphir Round Kirk, Scotland's only surviving medieval circular church, and the adjacent Earl's Bu, believed to be the 12th-century manor house of the Norse Earls of Orkney. These sites offer a fascinating glimpse into Orkney's Viking era. For more detailed information on the Earl's Bu and Church, you can visit Historic Environment Scotland's page. Nearby, the Orkneyinga Saga Centre provides an introduction to the history of the Viking Earls, though it is currently undergoing refurbishment and expected to reopen in summer 2026.

Orphir offers impressive natural beauty. You can enjoy stunning views of Scapa Flow, an expanse of water with rich maritime history. For panoramic vistas, head to Mid Hill or drive along Scorradale Road, which provides captivating views over Orphir, Scapa Flow, Hoy, and the island of Flotta, especially beautiful at sunset or sunrise. The area is also characterized by wild heather hills and beautiful beaches.

Yes, several attractions around Orphir are suitable for families. The historical sites like St Magnus Cathedral and Earl's Palace, Kirkwall are listed as family-friendly. For outdoor fun, Waulkmill Bay is an ideal spot for paddling with its shallow, warm waters, and it's great for a picnic. Exploring the wild heather hills and sandy bays also offers engaging activities for children.

The area around Orphir is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy and moderate options like the 'Ness Point Campsite to Stromness' or 'Stromness and The Holms to Warebeth'. For cycling, there are routes such as the 'North Sea Cycle Route: Orkney Prehistory Loop' and various loops around Stromness. Mountain biking trails are also available, with options like the 'From Stromness to Loch Harray and Skara Brae loop'. You can find more details and specific routes in the Hiking around Orphir, Cycling around Orphir, and MTB Trails around Orphir guides.

Orphir boasts several beautiful coastal spots. Waulkmill Bay is a long, flat sandy bay perfect for paddling and picnics, known for its shallow, sun-warmed waters. Another hidden gem is Swanbister Bay, a sandy bay backed by wildflowers, where you can also spot remnants of old submarine boom nets.

Scapa Flow is a body of water with immense historical significance, particularly during the World Wars. It served as a crucial British Fleet harbor, and is known for events like the sinking of the HMS Royal Oak in 1939. Today, it's a peaceful expanse, often featuring large oil tankers, but its wartime lookouts dotted along the shore serve as a reminder of its past.

Yes, beyond the Norse ruins, you can visit the Hall of Clestrain, a grand old house built in 1769. This is notable as the birthplace of renowned Arctic Explorer John Rae in 1813, whose early life in Orphir prepared him for his explorations. Additionally, the nearby St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall is a magnificent example of medieval architecture, known as 'The Light of the North'.

While Orphir can be visited year-round, the warmer months, typically late spring to early autumn (May to September), are generally best for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and enjoying the beaches. During this period, the weather is milder, and daylight hours are longer, making it ideal for exploring the wild heather hills and coastal areas. However, the dramatic landscapes can be enjoyed in any season, with Scorradale Road offering captivating views even at night.

Visitors frequently enjoy the historical and natural wonders around Orphir. Highly rated attractions include the majestic St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, known for its unique architecture and history. The ruins of Earl's Palace, Kirkwall, are also very popular, considered one of Scotland's most beautiful Renaissance buildings. Another must-see is the ancient Ring of Brodgar, a ceremonial stone circle that is part of the Neolithic World Heritage site.

Beyond the main historical sites, Swanbister Bay is considered a hidden gem in Orphir. This sandy bay, backed by wildflowers, offers a tranquil setting and a chance to see remnants of old submarine boom nets. The wild heather hills themselves, particularly around Mid Hill and Scorradale Road, offer secluded spots for enjoying the dramatic landscape and panoramic views away from the crowds.

The Orkneyinga Saga Centre, located near the Orphir Round Kirk and Earl's Bu, provides an introduction to the Orkneyinga Saga, which chronicles the history of the Viking Earls of Orkney. It features unstaffed displays that offer a colorful overview of those who ruled Orkney a millennium ago. It's an excellent starting point to understand the historical significance of the nearby ruins, though it is currently undergoing refurbishment and is expected to reopen in summer 2026.