The Brough of Birsay is a tidal island, accessible by foot at low tide (strong footwear is recommended).  There is a small visitors centre on the island, operated by Historic Scotland which contains some important early sculptures and Viking artefacts. The ruins of a 12th century church, associated buildings and Norse hall-houses can still be seen. Beyond the settlement the island rises to sea cliffs where you will find Brough Lighthouse built in 1925 and converted to solar power in 2001.  In spring the wild flowers carpet the island.  More information.

RSPB Reserve, Marwick Head.  The third largest sea bird colony in Orkney.  In spring and summer the red sandstone cliffs of Marwick Head are alive with nesting seabirds. Here you can spot puffins, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes and fulmars. Arctic and Great Skuas (locally known as Bonxies) abound throughout the summer. The cliff top has spectacular displays of sea campion, thrift, and spring squill. More information.

Kitchener Memorial, a monument to Lord Kitchener, Minister for War during World War I.  He was on a mission to Russia in June 1916 when his ship, the HMS Hampshire, was sunk with the loss of more than 650 men.

Kirbister Farm Museum, experience an early 19th Century farmhouse with traditional central hearth and stone bed.

The Earl’s Palace, overlooks Birsay Bay, the remains of the residence of Robert Stewart, Earl of Orkney, constructed in the late 16th-century, consisting of four wings around a central courtyard.  The palace lasted barely a century before being abandoned, today the ruins retain much of their grandeur. More information on Historic Scotland website.

Further afield

Skara Brae: one of the best-preserved group of prehistoric houses in Western Europe.  The site was uncovered in a storm in 1850. More information on Historic Scotland website.

Skaill House: adjacent to Skara Brae and the former home of the 7th Laird of Brekness, William Graham Watt who discovered Skara Brae.

Maeshowe: a chambered tomb which dates back more than 5000 years.  Meashowe is famously aligned with the setting of the winter sun. More information on Historic Scotland website.

Ring of Brodgar: originally consisted of 60 stones positioned in a vast circle between Harray and Stenness Lochs.  27 stones remain standing and visitors can still wander amongst them. More information on Historic Scotland website.

Stenness Standing Stones: Visitors can wander amongst the stone circle. More information on Historic Scotland website.