Scrabster Family Seaside Adventure Tour
Family-Friendly Adventures in !
Orkney Islands
Why Visit?
Day 1: Arrival in Kirkwall
Fly into Kirkwall Airport. Check into your hotel and spend your day exploring the charming town. Visit the St. Magnus Cathedral, known for its striking Norse architecture. Enjoy a family meal at a local café.
Day 2: Prehistoric Orkney
Drive or join a guided tour to the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Start with the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, marveling at its well-preserved stone structures and ancient furnishings, giving a unique glimpse into prehistoric life. Next, head to the Ring of Brodgar, a majestic circle of standing stones, and the nearby Stones of Stenness. Finish at Maeshowe, where you can explore a Neolithic chambered tomb famous for its Viking runic graffiti.
Day 3: Island Adventure to Hoy
Take a short ferry ride from Houton to Hoy. Visit the Dwarfie Stane, a massive stone block hollowed out during the Neolithic period, the only example of a rock-cut tomb in Britain. Spend the afternoon hiking to the Old Man of Hoy, a spectacular sea stack. This moderate hike is great for families and offers stunning views across the island and the Atlantic.
Day 4: Wildlife and Farm Life
Book a wildlife tour to see Orkney’s abundant bird life, seals, and maybe even otters. Alternatively, visit a local farm to learn about rural life in Orkney and get up close with farm animals – a hit with younger children. Spend your evening strolling along the Kirkwall harbor, enjoying local ice cream and the peaceful sea views.
Day 5: Museum Day and Departure
Before your departure, visit the Orkney Museum in Kirkwall to understand the rich tapestry of Orkney"s history, from Norse invaders to the present day. It"s a great way to wrap up your visit with educational insights into the islands" heritage.
This itinerary balances historical exploration with natural beauty, ensuring a memorable family trip to the Orkney Islands.
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.
Scapa Flow
Why Visit?
Family-Friendly Itinerary to Scapa Flow, Orkney
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Arrive in Orkney via a flight from Edinburgh or Glasgow to Kirkwall or by ferry from John O’Groats. Start your adventure by driving or taking a bus to the Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum in Lyness. Dive into fascinating exhibits about Orkney’s role in both World Wars and learn about the scuttling of the German Fleet in 1919. The museum, set in an old naval oil pump house, is interactive, making it fun for the kids.
Day 2: Beach Day and Nature Walk
Head to Waulkmill Bay, a stunning sandy beach that"s a hidden gem ideal for shell collecting and spotting wildlife. It"s about a 20-minute drive from Kirkwall. Pack a picnic and enjoy the serene views where children can play freely while parents relax. Later, take a leisurely walk along the coastline to observe Orkney’s diverse birdlife, including puffins and oystercatchers.
Day 3: Historic Churchill Barriers and Italian Chapel
Drive across the Churchill Barriers, impressive causeways constructed during WWII to protect the naval anchorage from submarines. Each barrier connects different islands and offers breathtaking sea views. Visit the Italian Chapel on Lamb Holm, a beautiful symbol of hope and peace built by Italian POWs. The chapel is renowned for its ornate interior, crafted from simple materials.
Day 4: Kayaking and Departure
For your final adventure, book a family kayaking tour around some parts of Scapa Flow with a local guide. It’s a thrilling way to get up close to shipwrecks and marine life. Conclude your visit with souvenirs from Kirkwall before catching your return ferry or flight.
This itinerary blends historical exploration with natural beauty, offering a memorable trip for the whole family!
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.
St. Magnus Cathedral
Why Visit?
Family-Friendly Itinerary to St. Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall
Morning: Arrival at St. Magnus Cathedral
- Getting There: Located in the heart of Kirkwall on Mainland Orkney, the cathedral is easily accessible by car or public transit. If you’re staying in Kirkwall, a leisurely walk through the historic streets is highly recommended. There"s also ample parking nearby for those driving.
- Start Your Tour: Begin your visit around 9:00 AM to enjoy the cathedral in the quieter morning hours. As you approach, its distinctive red and yellow sandstone architecture will captivate the entire family.
- Fascinating Fact: Did you know St. Magnus Cathedral is known as the "Light in the North"? It was founded in 1137 in honor of Saint Magnus Erlendsson, Earl of Orkney, known for his piety and peaceful nature.
Mid-Morning: Explore the Interior
- Self-Guided Tour: Grab a child-friendly tour pamphlet and discover the Viking history and Norse sagas connected to the cathedral. The stained glass windows and towering stone pillars make for an awe-inspiring sight.
- Highlight: Don’t miss the beautifully carved West Window and the St. Magnus relic casket in the choir area.
Lunch Break: Nearby Eateries
- Eat Like a Local: At around noon, head to one of the local cafes like "Judith Glue’s Real Food Café", just a two-minute walk from the cathedral. They offer delicious Orkney produce and kid-friendly meals.
Afternoon: Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces
- Short Walk: Post lunch, take a five-minute walk to the ruins of the Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces. These historical sites provide a glimpse into the medieval past of Orkney.
- Interactive Fun: Participate in a family treasure hunt available at the visitor center, exploring the ruins and learning through play.
Late Afternoon: Leisure Time by the Harbor
- Stroll and Play: Conclude your day with a relaxing walk to the nearby harbor. Enjoy the scenic views and let the kids play around the area.
- Departure: Head back to your accommodation or continue your Orkney adventure as the sun sets on a fulfilling day discovering the wonders of St. Magnus Cathedral and its surroundings.
This itinerary ensures a blend of education, fun, and relaxation, making your visit to St. Magnus Cathedral a memorable family day out!
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.