Orkney Museum Tours



If you're looking for some mental stimulation, don't miss Orkney Museum. Whether it's history, traditions or cultural practices, you'll find lots of inspiring displays to keep your mind active here.

You'll find this collection of historical artifacts in Kirkwall. Once you've done all you can at Orkney Museum, check out nearby Balfour Castle, Highland Park Distillery, and St. Magnus Cathedral.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Orkney Museum

The Ayre Hotel

The Ayre Hotel

3 out of 5
Ayre Road, Kirkwall, Scotland
The Ayre Hotel
Albert Hotel

Albert Hotel

3 out of 5
Mounthoolie Lane, Kirkwall, Scotland
Albert Hotel
The Shore

The Shore

3 out of 5
Shore Street, Kirkwall, Scotland
The Shore
Kirkwall Youth Hostel

Kirkwall Youth Hostel

2 out of 5
Old Scapa Road, Kirkwall, Scotland
Kirkwall Youth Hostel
The Orkney Hotel

The Orkney Hotel

3 out of 5
40 Victoria Street, Kirkwall, Scotland
The Orkney Hotel
Royal Oak Guest House

Royal Oak Guest House

2 out of 5
Holm Road, Kirkwall, Scotland
Royal Oak Guest House
Castleyards Apartment 12

Castleyards Apartment 12

3.5 out of 5
12 Castleyards, Kirkwall, Scotland
Castleyards Apartment 12
Castleyards Apartment 2

Castleyards Apartment 2

3.5 out of 5
2 Castleyards, Kirkwall, Scotland
Castleyards Apartment 2
Castleyards Apartment 1

Castleyards Apartment 1

3 out of 5
1 West Castle Street, Kirkwall, Scotland
Castleyards Apartment 1
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do in Orkney Museum

While visiting the Orkney Museum in Kirkwall, immerse yourself in a memorable experience with its charming exhibits. Consider taking a day tour to explore the surrounding area, or opt for a private tour for a more personalized adventure. Enjoy live music events nearby, and don't miss out on popular activities like ferry rides and diving excursions to enhance your stay in this small but captivating museum setting.

Shopping

At the Orkney Museum, you can explore local crafts and unique gifts. For more extensive shopping, check out the Kirkwall Shopping Centre, offering a variety of shops. If you're up for a drive, head to the St. Magnus Centre, about 1.5 miles away, for more options.

Recreation

The Orkney Museum offers a peaceful retreat with its fascinating exhibits showcasing local history and culture. Enjoy leisurely strolls through the museum's gardens, and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere. Nearby, explore Kirkwall's scenic waterfront for refreshing walks and stunning views of the surrounding islands.

Adventure

The Orkney Museum offers an engaging glimpse into the islands' rich history, featuring ancient artifacts and interactive exhibits. Explore nearby sites like the Standing Stones of Stenness for a thrilling outdoor experience, or visit the beautiful beaches of Orkney for stunning views and exciting coastal walks.

Nightlife

In Kirkwall, the Orkney Museum offers a unique nighttime atmosphere with occasional evening events and local gatherings. Nearby, the Reel, a cozy pub, hosts live music, while The Orkney Bar serves craft beers, creating a lively spot for mingling and enjoying local culture.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Orkney Museum

Whether you're a culture enthusiast or seeking a romantic getaway, Orkney Museum in Kirkwall offers a wealth of experiences. Explore nearby attractions such as the Orkney Islands and the Orkney Faerie Museum, while also taking in fascinating archaeological sites and historic ruins. With options for beach lovers and those interested in local history, there's something for every traveler to enjoy in this stunning destination.

  • St. Magnus Cathedral: Discover the stunning architecture and rich history of St. Magnus Cathedral, an iconic landmark in Kirkwall. Its intricate stonework and beautiful stained glass create a serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of Orkney's cultural heritage.
  • Earl's Palace: Explore the fascinating ruins of Earl's Palace, a former residence of the Earl of Orkney. With its impressive Renaissance architecture, this site offers a glimpse into the region's history and the power struggles of the past, set against a backdrop of cultural significance.
  • Balfour Castle: Experience the romantic charm of Balfour Castle, surrounded by lush gardens and stunning views. This picturesque castle combines history and beauty, making it a lovely spot for leisurely walks and enjoying the serene Orkney landscape.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Orkney Museum

To save money on your trip to Orkney Museum in Kirkwall, consider visiting in February or November to December when prices are lower. Booking your hotel around a month in advance can yield the best deals, particularly on Tuesdays, while Fridays are pricier. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia and use their search tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options. Combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings into a package can also save you money. Don't forget to join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and the chance to earn rewards for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Orkney Museum are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Orkney Museum about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Orkney Museum is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Orkney Museum is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy to set your budget, choose your ideal destination, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, so you can find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll see a list of sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Orkney Museum with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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