Orkney – Stone Circles, Sea Cliffs, and Open Island Landscapes

Prehistoric monuments, coastal cliffs, and windswept farmland north of mainland Scotland

Stone circles, chambered cairns, and open coastal landscapes shape Orkney, where walking routes move between the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site, cliff-edge paths, and historic settlements such as Kirkwall, Stromness, St Margaret’s Hope, and Dounby. Mainland Orkney forms the core of the archipelago, linking prehistoric ceremonial sites with Norse-influenced towns and exposed Atlantic shoreline.

Much of the terrain is low and open rather than mountainous. Gently rolling pasture, minor roads, grassy tracks, and shoreline paths define walking conditions, with wide horizons and constant exposure to wind and shifting light. The landscape feels expansive and horizontal, shaped by sea, agriculture, and long continuity of settlement rather than steep ascent.

Around the Lochs of Harray and Stenness, prehistoric monuments stand within working farmland, their scale revealed against flat skies and open ground. To the west, cliffs rise above the Atlantic near Yesnaby and Marwick Head, where coastal routes follow headlands and seabird colonies. The eastern side of Mainland Orkney becomes more sheltered, with quieter inlets and agricultural interior.

Towns and villages sit close to the water, creating natural points for shorter loops and longer coastal sections that connect heritage sites with harbours and ferry terminals.

Trails and Routes Through Orkney

St Magnus Way (Orkney Section)

‍A long-distance pilgrimage route linking Egilsay, Birsay, Dounby, and Kirkwall across farmland, shoreline, and historic church sites.

Yesnaby & West Mainland Coastal Paths

‍Clifftop walking west of Stromness with views across sea stacks and exposed Atlantic coastline.

Brodgar Isthmus Paths

‍Short walking links between the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness across narrow ground between lochs.

Marwick Head & Birsay Walks

‍Headland routes with archaeological remains and seabird colonies overlooking open ocean.

Walking Character

• Low, open island terrain
• Stone circles and chambered cairns
• Atlantic sea cliffs and headlands
• Farmland lanes and minor roads
• Wide skies and exposed conditions
• Coastal settlements and Norse heritage

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Orkney located?

Orkney lies north of mainland Scotland, across the Pentland Firth, forming an archipelago of low-lying islands.

What defines walking here?

Prehistoric monuments, open agricultural landscapes, and coastal cliff paths shaped by Atlantic weather and long settlement history.

Are there long-distance routes here?

Yes. The St Magnus Way crosses parts of Mainland Orkney, linking historic church sites and settlements.

Is the terrain steep?

Generally no. Most ground is gently rolling, though coastal cliffs and headlands can be uneven and exposed.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring to early autumn provides longer daylight and calmer conditions, though strong winds are possible year-round.