The Orkney Islands off the northern coast of Scotland offer a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy the region’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. The Shore Excursion Kirkwall Small Group Highlights of Orkney tour provides an intimate and personalized experience, guiding travelers through iconic sites like the Churchill Barriers and the prehistoric settlement of Skara Brae. With knowledgeable local guides and a maximum group size of six, this tour promises a comprehensive and enjoyable exploration of Orkney’s cultural treasures. What secrets might these ancient landmarks reveal about the island’s past?
Key Points
- A compact exploration of Kirkwall and Orkney Islands for a small group of up to 6 travelers.
- Includes must-see attractions like the Churchill Barriers, Skara Brae, and Ring of Brodgar.
- Led by knowledgeable local guides who provide personalized and informative experiences.
- Offers hassle-free pickup and drop-off service, as well as all admission fees and food/drink.
- Suitable for most travelers with a moderate level of mobility, ensuring an immersive experience.
Tour Overview
The Shore Excursion Kirkwall Small Group Highlights of Orkney tour offers a compact yet comprehensive exploration of Kirkwall and the surrounding Orkney Islands.
A compact yet comprehensive exploration of Kirkwall and the surrounding Orkney Islands through the Shore Excursion Kirkwall Small Group Highlights of Orkney tour.
This small group experience, limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, takes visitors to must-see attractions like the Churchill Barriers, Skara Brae, and the Ring of Brodgar.
Priced from $304.92 per person, the tour includes all admission fees and food and drink.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour has received high praise from past visitors for its personalized and informative experience.
The tour starts at 9:30 am, meeting at the Kirkwall Hotel, and returns to the same location.
Looking for more options in Kirkwall? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Meeting and Pickup
Travelers meet their guide at the Kirkwall Hotel, located on Harbour Street in Kirkwall, KW15 1LE, UK. The guide greets them upon disembarkation from the tender ship.
The small group tour begins at 9:30 am. During the experience, the guide shares their extensive knowledge of the local history and culture.
The tour ends back at the meeting point, providing a convenient return location for the travelers. This seamless pickup and drop-off service ensures a hassle-free start and finish to the Shore Excursion Kirkwall Small Group Highlights of Orkney tour.
Inclusions
This small group tour includes all the admissions to the major attractions on the itinerary.
Travelers will enjoy:
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Churchill Barriers – stunning engineering feats built during WWII
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Skara Brae – a 5,000-year-old Neolithic village
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Ring of Brodgar – an ancient Neolithic stone circle
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The Big Dig – an archaeological site offering a glimpse into the past
Food and drink are also included, providing a well-rounded, personal, and informative experience.
With a maximum group size of 6, this tour offers an intimate way to explore the highlights of Orkney.
Accessibility and Participation
Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers. The location is near public transportation, making it easily accessible.
Participants should have a moderate level of mobility, as some walking and standing is required to visit the historical sites. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the guide is knowledgeable about the local history and culture.
The tour offers an immersive way to explore the highlights of Orkney, providing a unique and informative experience for those who are able to participate.
Cancellation and Booking Information
Confirmation is received at the time of booking for the Shore Excursion Kirkwall Small Group Highlights of Orkney tour.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking for the Shore Excursion Kirkwall Small Group Highlights of Orkney tour.
Travelers have the flexibility to cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, at no additional cost.
A "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option is available, allowing customers to secure their spot without immediate payment.
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Confirmation received at booking
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience
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"Reserve Now and Pay Later" option available
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Convenient and flexible booking and cancellation policies
Customer Experience
Two reviews for the Shore Excursion Kirkwall Small Group Highlights of Orkney tour praise the informative and personal experience.
Travelers are guided by Frank from Odin Tours Orkney, who’s commended for his extensive knowledge of local history.
The tour covers iconic Orkney sites, including the 5,000-year-old Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar (500 years older than Stonehenge), and the Italian Chapel.
Reviewers highly recommend this tour for its in-depth and personalized approach, noting it provides a rundown of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The small group size allows for an intimate and engaging experience.
Exploring the Churchill Barriers
The Churchill Barriers, a series of four causeways constructed during World War II, connect the Orkney Mainland to the islands of South Ronaldsay, Burray, Lamb Holm, and Glimps Holm.
The Churchill Barriers, a series of four causeways, connect the Orkney Mainland to the islands of South Ronaldsay, Burray, Lamb Holm, and Glimps Holm.
Travelers on the Shore Excursion Kirkwall Small Group Highlights of Orkney tour can explore these impressive structures, which:
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Served as a defensive blockade to prevent German naval access to Scapa Flow
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Feature beautiful coastal views of the North Sea and the Orkney Islands
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Include the Italian Chapel, a remarkable building constructed by Italian prisoners of war
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Offer opportunities to walk along the barriers and learn about their historical significance.
Discovering Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar
After exploring the Churchill Barriers, the Shore Excursion Kirkwall Small Group Highlights of Orkney tour takes travelers to two of Orkney’s most iconic prehistoric sites – Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar.
At Skara Brae, the group marvels at the 5,000-year-old stone-built village, the best-preserved Neolithic settlement in Western Europe.
Next, the tour visits the mystical Ring of Brodgar, a magnificent stone circle dating back 4,500 years – older than Stonehenge.
The group explores these awe-inspiring archaeological wonders, learning about the lives and rituals of Orkney’s ancient inhabitants from the knowledgeable local guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Currency Is Accepted for This Tour?
The currency accepted for this tour is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, as it is offered in Kirkwall, Scotland, it’s reasonable to assume the tour accepts British pounds sterling as the primary payment method.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink?
The tour includes food and drink, so bringing your own is not necessary. However, you’re welcome to bring any extra snacks or beverages you’d like to have on hand during the excursion.
Is There a Dress Code for This Tour?
There’s no specific dress code for this tour. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves some walking outdoors. Participants should dress for the local climate and conditions to ensure a comfortable experience.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?
The tour duration cannot be extended. Participants are advised to follow the scheduled itinerary, as the tour is designed to cover the highlights within the specified time frame. The guide will ensure a seamless and timely experience for all travelers.
Is There a Discount for Senior or Student Travelers?
There’s no mention of a discount for senior or student travelers on this tour. The price is listed as $304.92 per person regardless of age or student status. The tour is described as accommodating most travelers, but specific discounts aren’t outlined.