Kirkwall, Scotland

The most prominent landmark in Kirkwall is the magnificent St. Magnus Cathedral, a stunning red sandstone structure founded in 1137. Known as the 'Light in the North', it dominates the town's skyline and is a must-see.

Adjacent to the cathedral are the ruins of the Earl's Palace and the Bishop's Palace, which offer a glimpse into the lives of Orkney's powerful Renaissance-era earls.

A shore excursion is required to visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This collection of prehistoric monuments includes the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle, and the Stones of Stenness. These sites are approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Kirkwall and are often visited together on tours.

A short drive from Kirkwall is the charming fishing town of Stromness, located about 16 miles (26 km) away. It features a picturesque harbour and winding stone-paved streets, offering a different perspective on Orcadian life.

To the south, linked by the Churchill Barriers, is the remarkable Italian Chapel on the island of Lamb Holm. This beautifully decorated chapel was built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II and is a testament to faith and creativity in adversity.

Visitors can also explore the history of Scapa Flow, the vast natural harbour that was a key naval base for the British Royal Navy. The area is dotted with viewpoints and small museums detailing its crucial role in both World Wars.

Kirkwall has two primary docking locations for cruise ships. Larger vessels dock at Hatston Pier, a deep-water berth located approximately 3 miles (5 km) north of the town centre. Due to the distance, the port authority or cruise lines typically provide complimentary shuttle buses to transport passengers to and from the Kirkwall travel centre.

Smaller cruise ships may be able to dock at the Kirkwall Harbour pier, which is located directly in the heart of the town, offering immediate walking access to shops, restaurants, and the main historic attractions. In some cases, ships may anchor in Kirkwall Bay and use tenders to bring passengers ashore, usually to the Kirkwall Harbour pier. The Hatston Pier has a modern terminal building with basic facilities, but most amenities are found in the town itself.

The official currency in Kirkwall is the Pound Sterling (GBP), often represented by the symbol £. While Scotland issues its own distinct banknotes, they are legal tender throughout the United Kingdom and have the same value as Bank of England notes.

US Dollars and Euros are not generally accepted, so it is necessary to use the local currency. ATMs are widely available in Kirkwall's town centre for cash withdrawals. Credit and debit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are accepted in most shops, restaurants, and visitor attractions.

Kirkwall and the Orkney Islands are considered extremely safe, with a very low crime rate. Visitors can feel comfortable exploring the town and surrounding areas independently. Standard precautions like being aware of your belongings in crowded areas are always wise, but specific crime-related concerns for tourists are minimal.

The main safety considerations are related to the natural environment. The weather can change rapidly, so always be prepared with appropriate clothing. When visiting coastal areas or ancient sites like the Ring of Brodgar, be mindful of uneven ground, slippery stones, and potentially high winds near cliff edges.

The cruise season in Kirkwall, typically from May to September, experiences a cool and temperate maritime climate. The weather is famously changeable, and it's often said you can experience all four seasons in a single day.

Summer average temperatures range from 12°C to 16°C (54°F to 61°F), and it rarely feels hot. Wind is a near-constant feature of the Orkney weather, so a good windproof jacket is essential.

Rain showers can occur at any time, so packing a waterproof jacket and sturdy, comfortable walking shoes is highly recommended. Dressing in layers is the best strategy to adapt to the fluctuating conditions throughout the day.

For cruise passengers arriving at the main Hatston Pier, complimentary shuttle buses are typically provided for the 3-mile journey into Kirkwall's town centre.

Public transportation is managed by the Orkney Islands Council, with services connecting Kirkwall to other towns and major heritage sites. Taxis are also available, but they can be in high demand on cruise days, so booking in advance is advisable.

Ride-sharing services like Uber are not available in Orkney. To visit multiple sites independently, renting a car or hiring a taxi for the day are popular options.

Shopping in Kirkwall is centred around the charming, flagstone-paved main thoroughfares of Albert Street and Bridge Street. These streets are lined with a variety of independent, locally-owned shops rather than large chain stores.

Local specialties and excellent souvenirs include high-quality knitwear, unique silver jewelry inspired by Norse and Pictish designs, and local crafts. Foodies will appreciate Orkney fudge, cheese, and world-renowned single malt whisky from local distilleries like Highland Park.

Prices are fixed, and bargaining is not a part of the local shopping culture. It's a great place to find authentic, handcrafted Scottish and Orcadian goods.