Light Of The North
Kirkwall, the vibrant heart of life on Orkney still beats with Viking spirit
NOW home to around 9000 Orcadians, the largest town in Orkney, Kirkwall, was established by Norse adventurers 1000 years ago. The port at Kirkwall was founded to serve boats travelling from Norway, but it now serves as the main port for ferries from mainland Scotland. The Viking spirit that the town was founded upon runs through the streets to this day, making it the beating heart of Orcadian life.
At the heart of Kirkwall, both physically and spiritually, is St Magnus Cathedral. Known as the “Light in the North”, it was founded by the Vikings in 1137 and is the northernmost cathedral in Britain.
The cathedral still stands in its entirety, an impressive architectural spectacle that took around 300 years to build. Entry is free and it provides the perfect place to read up on Orkney’s Viking past or simply sit in quiet contemplation.
Just over the road from the cathedral stand two more historical landmarks, the Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces. The original Bishop’s Palace was built in the 1100s with the ornate Earl’s Palace being added in 1600s. The history is palpable as you explore the ruins.
Ascending the tallest towers, ducking through archways and admiring the fine view of Kirkwall, it’s easy to imagine life as nobleman among these hallowed walls.
History enthusiasts are well catered for throughout the whole of Orkney, but Kirkwall in particular has several significant gems. Whether you are an expert on all things ancient or simply fancy somewhere to escape the rain, an afternoon in the Orkney Museum is one well spent.
For those who want a true flavour of what it means to be Orcadian, from the Stone Age through the Picts to today, the exhibits and artefacts of the Orkney Museum – written and curated by locals – are fascinating.
“A bustling and vibrant cultural hub
“Kirkwall has so much to offer visitors,” says Cheryl Chapman, Visitscotland development manager. “With lots of sites and attractions all within an easy walking distance, it’s a perfect retreat for all the family. From St Magnus Cathedral to the diverse high street; museum, historic ruins, great restaurants, hotels and bars, gin and whisky distilleries, Kirkwall is a bustling cultural hub that offers a packed treat for all ages and interests.”
Kirkwall boasts three distilleries; Highland Park, The Orkney Distillery and Scapa Distillery, and each offers tours complete with their own unique stories and history. You could try to see all three in a day, but with tours such as Highland Park’s “Viking Harmony” tour including five drams, it might be an idea to pace yourself!
Many of Orkney’s biggest attractions are focused on its rich history, and while they all welcome and cater for younger visitors, sometimes an activity is needed that’s just for families. The Pickaquoy Centre is the perfect place to spend a rainy day or if you just want to tire the kids out.
Known locally as the “Picky”, the centre has everything an energetic youngster could want. There is soft play, two swimming pools, a climbing wall and a cinema.
For a small town, Kirkwall boasts an impressive array of historic and cultural attractions. However, the assets and beauty of the town itself are not to be overlooked.
In 2019, Kirkwall High Street was voted the most beautiful in Scotland, and with good reason. The centre of Kirkwall is as diverse as any cosmopolitan city but instead of a focus on big brand shops and high street names, you will find local businesses run by local people.