Planning an archaeology-focused trip to Orkney can be both exciting and overwhelming, given the abundance of historical treasures that scatter these Scottish islands. With a rich tapestry of Neolithic and Iron Age sites, from the Ring of Brodgar to Skara Brae, Orkney offers a mesmerizing journey back in time. Here’s how you can arrange a guided archaeology tour in Orkney, ensuring a memorable and educational experience.
Discover the Treasures of Mainland Orkney
When visiting Orkney, the Mainland is a treasure trove of historical sites. This is the largest island in the Orkney archipelago and boasts a wealth of archaeological wonders that will intrigue any history enthusiast.
Neolithic and Iron Age Marvels
The Mainland Orkney is home to some of the most well-preserved Neolithic sites in the world. Begin your journey at Skara Brae, a stone-built settlement buried beneath the sand for millennia until its rediscovery in the 19th century. Here, you can walk through ancient homes and visualize the daily life of the Stone Age.
Next, explore the Ring of Brodgar, a magnificent circle of standing stones that form part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. These stones, standing stoically against the Orkney sky, are a powerful reminder of ancient ceremonial practices.
Transitioning to the Iron Age, don’t miss the Broch of Gurness. This impressive tower-like structure offers insights into the defensive strategies and community life of the Iron Age inhabitants of Orkney.
Planning Your Visit
To get the most out of these sites, consider arranging guided tours. Knowledgeable guides can provide in-depth historical context, share fascinating stories, and answer any questions you might have. Most tours can be customized to fit your schedule and interests, whether you prefer a full day excursion or a shorter visit.
Accommodation is plentiful in Mainland Orkney, with options ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to more luxurious hotels. Staying in Kirkwall, the island’s capital, is particularly convenient. Here, you can visit the majestic Magnus Cathedral and the Orkney Museum for more insights into the islands’ rich past.
Exploring Orkney’s Lesser-Known Islands
While the Mainland holds many treasures, the smaller islands of Orkney offer their own unique archaeological sites worth exploring. These islands are accessible by ferry, making for a scenic and adventurous day trip.
Uncovering Hidden Gems
Mousa, known for its impressively preserved Iron Age broch, is a nature reserve that combines natural beauty with historical intrigue. The Broch of Mousa stands as the best-preserved example of such structures in Scotland, providing a vivid glimpse into the past.
Another must-visit site is the Ninian Isle, where a medieval chapel and a treasure hoard were discovered in the 1950s. The island’s serene landscape adds to the allure, making it a peaceful retreat as well as an archaeological delight.
For those interested in religious history, the Italian Chapel on Lamb Holm is an exquisite example of wartime ingenuity. Built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII, this chapel is a testament to the human spirit and artistic creativity amidst adversity.
Making the Most of Your Island Tours
When planning your day tours to these islands, it’s wise to check the ferry schedules in advance, as they can be affected by weather conditions. Hiring a local guide who specializes in the history of these islands can enhance the experience, providing detailed explanations and anecdotes that bring each site to life.
Booking your accommodation on the Mainland and making day trips to the smaller islands is often the best strategy. This allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds: the conveniences of Mainland Orkney and the unique charms of its outlying islands.
Combining Orkney and Shetland for an Extended Archaeological Adventure
For those looking to extend their archaeological adventure, combining a visit to Orkney with a trip to the Shetland Islands is a fantastic idea. The Orkney and Shetland islands both offer rich histories, though each has its unique attractions and sites.
Highlights of Shetland
Shetland is renowned for its diverse archaeological sites, ranging from ancient brochs to Viking settlements. Start your exploration with a visit to Jarlshof, where you can see remains from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Norse periods all in one place. This multi-layered site is a fascinating testament to human habitation over thousands of years.
Another significant site is the Stones of Stenness, one of the oldest stone circles in Britain. These standing stones are part of the same Neolithic landscape as Orkney’s Ring of Brodgar, emphasizing the deep historical connections between the two archipelagos.
Practical Tips for Combining Tours
Travel between Orkney and Shetland is straightforward, with regular ferry services available. When planning your tour to Shetland, it’s advisable to book guided tours in advance, as the best guides are often in high demand, especially during peak travel times.
Both Orkney and Shetland offer a range of accommodation options, though booking early ensures you get the best picks. Staying in Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, provides easy access to many of the islands’ attractions and a variety of dining and lodging choices.
Booking Your Guided Tours and Final Tips
Once you have a rough itinerary in mind, it’s time to book your guided tours. Several tour operators specialize in archaeological tours of Orkney and Shetland, offering both group and private tours tailored to your interests and schedule.
Choosing the Right Tour Provider
When selecting a tour provider, consider their expertise and the depth of information they offer. Look for operators who employ guides with backgrounds in archaeology or history, as they can provide richer, more nuanced insights.
Be sure to also check reviews and testimonials from previous guests. These can offer valuable insights into the quality of the tours and the guides’ knowledge and passion.
Additional Resources
Before you travel, it’s worth doing some background reading on Orkney’s archaeological sites. Many excellent resources are available online, including detailed site descriptions and historical contexts. The official Orkney tourism website is a good place to start, offering comprehensive information on what to see and do.
Your visit to Orkney will be greatly enhanced by the background knowledge you gain ahead of time. Understanding the significance of sites like Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and the various Iron Age brochs can deepen your appreciation of these ancient marvels.
Arranging a guided archaeology tour in Orkney is a journey into the depths of history, where every stone tells a story. From the majestic standing stones of the Ring of Brodgar to the meticulously preserved homes of Skara Brae, Orkney invites you to step back in time and walk among the legacies of ancient civilizations.
Whether you’re exploring the Mainland or venturing to the smaller islands, the insights gained from knowledgeable guides will enrich your experience. For an extended adventure, combining Orkney with a visit to the Shetland Islands offers an even broader historical panorama.
By planning ahead, booking accommodations and tours early, and immersing yourself in the rich history of these islands, your archaeological tour of Orkney will be an unforgettable journey through time. Visit Orkney and let its ancient stones tell their timeless stories.