- Must visit
The Orkney Museum
Orkney’s main museum presents archaeology, island history, and exhibits in atmospheric old buildings near the cathedral.
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Complete guide to Kirkwall
Things to do in Kirkwall
Discover the best of Kirkwall — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kirkwall trip today.
- Recommended
The Orkney Wireless Museum
Distinctive gallery and museum space with changing exhibitions, craft displays, and a good introduction to Orkney’s visual culture.
- Recommended
Harbour Gallery
Contemporary gallery in Kirkwall showing exhibitions by local and visiting artists, with a strong focus on Orkney creative practice.
- Recommended
Albert Street
Kirkwall’s central shopping street is lined with historic buildings, independent shops, and easy access to the cathedral quarter.
- Recommended
Kirkwall Harbour
Kirkwall’s harbour area offers sea views, ferry activity, and a relaxed walk close to the old town and visitor facilities.
- Recommended
Broad Street
Pleasant urban walk around the cathedral precinct and palace ruins, ideal for appreciating Kirkwall’s medieval townscape.
- Gluten-free
Orcadian Fish Soup
A rich broth traditionally made with haddock, shellfish and root vegetables. It reflects Orkney's fishing heritage and is a classic local comfort dish.
- Vegetarian
Orkney Bere Bannock
A dense fruit loaf made with flour, sugar, dried fruit and spices. Long linked to Orkney baking traditions and often served sliced with tea.
- Vegetarian
Orkney Shortbread
Traditional Scottish shortbread made in Orkney with butter, flour and sugar. A staple local bake sold across Kirkwall and the islands.
Sunbean Coffee House
Popular café and bistro known for soups, baking, lunches and coffee. Casual stop for local produce in Kirkwall's old town.
The Harbour Fry
Harbourside restaurant focused on fresh Orkney seafood and local produce in a relaxed modern setting near the marina.
Helgi's
Stylish town-centre restaurant serving Scottish and Orcadian dishes with local ingredients in a smart but welcoming atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels can be pricier in peak season, while dining and local buses are broadly similar to other small UK island destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is polite if service is not included. Round up taxi fares; cafes usually just spare change.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- : null
To the city center
Kirkwall Airport, Kirkwall -> Kirkwall Travel Centre, Kirkwall
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Stagecoach says contactless payment is available on all Orkney buses. Keep a bank card ready for onboard payment.
- Kirkwall Airport is served by Bus Service 4/4D. Check current times via Orkney Islands Council bus pages or Stagecoach before travel.
airport information
Airports in Kirkwall
Check where to Kirkwall flights depart and arrive, plus the main airport details for this route.
Kirkwall Airport (KOI)Kirkwall Airport, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1TH, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Kirkwall Airport from Kirkwall city centre
Kirkwall Airport is 4 km from Kirkwall city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus4 · 10m · $5 · every ~6 min
4 · 16m · $5 · every ~6 min
Kirkwall Airport airport facilities and services
Kirkwall Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafe serving drinks and snacks available.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
WiFi is available throughout the terminal. ATMs are available at Kirkwall Airport.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kirkwall Airport.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kirkwall Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kirkwall Airport: Ramps and assistance for disabled passengers available.
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