The capital of Kirkwall and the largest city of Orkney, an archipelago off the north coast of Scotland. There is a food industry, boat building and a seaport. The city has a population of about 9,000. It has ferry access from Aberdeen and Lerwick.
- The unique Cathedral of St. Magnus – an impressive 12th-century building, called the “Light of the North”.
- Traditional Ba’ games – local football competitions held in the city centre during the holidays.
- Highland Park Distillery – one of the oldest operating whisky distilleries in Scotland.
- One of the most important events is the St. Magnus festival, held at the turn of June and July. It is a time of concerts, exhibitions and cultural events. In winter, although it is quieter, it is worth visiting the city during the holiday season, when traditional celebrations and fairs take place.
- When is the best time to visit Kirkwall? The best time to visit Kirkwall is from May to September, when the weather is at its most stable, with temperatures ranging between 12°C and 18°C. Summer also means longer days, which makes it a great time to visit. During the high season (July-August), the city attracts more tourists, which can result in higher prices for accommodation and more traffic at popular attractions.
- The city’s cuisine. Kirkwall is renowned for its seafood and dishes based on fresh, local ingredients. Make sure to try:
- – Orkney crab – served in a variety of ways
- – Seafood haggis – a local twist on a Scottish classic
- – Smoked salmon – smoked salmon from the islands
- – Orkney fudge cheesecake – a dessert with local caramel
- – Clapshot – mashed potatoes and turnip
- The best places to try the local cuisine are restaurants in the city centre, such as Helgi’s and The Reel.
- City Facts: Kirkwall was once the capital of the Norse Kingdom of Orkney, which explains its Norse heritage. St. Magnus Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the region, built by the Vikings.
