Highlands And Northern Islands, Scotland
Summers (June-August) present the warmest weather, averaging between 12-16°C (54-61°F). Winters (December-February) are cooler, with averages of 2-6°C (36-43°F). Rain occurs throughout the year. Autumn and winter generally see slightly higher rainfall. Snowfall is uncommon and usually light.
The air often feels humid year-round, typical for islands. Orkney holds fame for its strong winds. These winds may occur in any season and impact outdoor activities and ferry crossings. Always verify wind forecasts, especially for boat trips or coastal walks.
Orkney's islands remain exposed to the Atlantic, meaning weather may change rapidly. A sunny morning can turn into a windy, rainy afternoon without warning.
Wear layers to adapt to these changes. Always pack waterproof and windproof clothing, regardless of the season.
June-August
Longest daylight, warmest temperatures, full attraction schedules, festivals, optimal for seabird viewing.
Peak crowds, highest prices, advance booking needed, midges possible.
April-May, Sep-Oct
Fewer crowds, lower prices, good daylight. Spring brings migratory birds, autumn seal pups. Ideal for walking/cycling.
Weather turns more unpredictable. Some attractions may have reduced hours. Fewer ferry sailings late autumn.
Nov-March
Lowest prices. Few tourists, offering a quiet experience. Opportunity for Northern Lights on clear, dark nights.
Shortest daylight, coldest temperatures, strongest winds. Many attractions close. Limited services.
Archaeology: High and Shoulder seasons offer full access and longer opening hours for sites like Skara Brae and Maeshowe. Birdwatching: Late spring (May-June) serves best for nesting seabirds. Visit colonies at Marwick Head, Birsay, or Westray. Autumn (September-October) provides fine viewing of migratory birds.
Walking/Hiking: Shoulder seasons (May, September) offer comfortable temperatures and clearer trails. Fewer midges than in peak summer. Diving (Scapa Flow): Summer (June-August) presents the best visibility and warmest water temperatures for wreck diving. Diving happens year-round.
Winter (November-March) delivers the best chance to see the aurora.
Clear, dark skies are necessary, away from light pollution.
Expect cold nights, often windy.
Seek out areas with minimal light interference for optimal viewing.
A tripod and camera with manual settings are helpful for capturing the aurora.
Travel to Orkney falls under United Kingdom entry requirements. These rules stand for all parts of the UK, including Scotland and its islands.
UK Standard Visitor Visa: Most non-EEA and non-Swiss nationals need this visa for tourism. It permits stays up to 6 months. Apply online through the official UK government website before your trip.
Prepare these items for your journey and upon arrival. The process usually quickens for most visitors.
Plan your budget for an Orkney trip. Costs differ widely depending on your travel style, from budget-conscious to luxury.
Orkney ranks as a safe place to visit. Take general precautions as elsewhere, and prepare for the specific environment.
Midges (Biting Insects): Small, biting insects common in summer, specifically in calm, damp conditions. They may prove a nuisance. Ticks: Present in grassy and moorland areas, especially warmer months. They may transmit Lyme disease. Sunburn/Windburn: Even on cloudy days, UV exposure may run high, notably near the coast. Strong winds also cause windburn. Hypothermia/Exposure: Weather may change rapidly. Temperatures may fall, and strong winds and rain combine to make conditions feel much colder.
Tap water throughout Orkney is safe to drink. Food hygiene standards in restaurants, cafes, and shops hold high marks, regulated by strict UK laws.
UK residents and EU citizens (with a valid EHIC/GHIC card) access NHS services. Other visitors may pay for medical treatment. Balfour Hospital in Kirkwall renders accident and emergency services. For non-urgent medical advice, dial 111 for NHS 24.
Main hospital: Balfour Hospital, Kirkwall.
Emergencies: Dial 999 (Police, Fire, Ambulance, Coastguard).
Orkney is a very low crime rate. It generally is an extremely safe place to visit. There are no specific "no-go" areas. Use common sense precautions, like keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.
Low crime rate overall.
No specific unsafe areas. Normal travel precautions are enough.
The main natural hazards relate to the weather. Gales/Storms: Strong winds and storms may occur, notably in autumn and winter. These may disrupt ferry services and impact coastal areas. Coastal Hazards: Strong currents, powerful tides, and sudden waves are present.
Verify weather forecasts and ferry schedules before travel.
Exercise caution on cliffs and beaches. Keep away from cliff edges, as they may be unstable. Do not turn your back on the sea.
| Category | Details | Affiliate Links |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance | Travel insurance carries a strong recommendation. Confirm your policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. | World Nomads, SafetyWing, Insubuy |
| Emergency Contacts | Dial 999 for Police, Fire, Ambulance, Coastguard. NHS 24: 111. Local Police (Kirkwall non-emergency): 101. Keep embassy/consulate details handy. | |
| Health Resources | Routine vaccinations current. Consider LifeStraw for water filters and Adventure Medical Kits for first aid. | LifeStraw, Adventure Medical Kits, Pacsafe |
Plan your budget for an Orkney trip. Costs differ widely depending on your travel style, from budget-conscious to luxury. The official currency is Pound Sterling (GBP, £).
Pound Sterling (GBP, £). Notes in £5, £10, £20, £50. Coins 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1, £2.
ATMs widely available in Kirkwall and Stromness. Visa, Mastercard, Maestro widely accepted. Inform your bank of travel plans.
Have some cash for smaller purchases or rural shops.
Tipping is not mandatory but valued for good service.
Restaurants: A tip of 10% for good service is customary if service charge not automatically added. Pubs/Bars: Do not tip for drinks at the bar. Taxis: Round up the fare or include about 10% for good service. Tour Guides: Consider £5-£10 per person for a full-day tour, or at your discretion. Hotels: Tipping housekeeping is optional.
AirHelp may secure flight compensation.
£90-£170 total daily (Hostel/Basic B&B, Self-catering/Takeaway, Bus, Some free sites).
£190-£320 total daily (Mid-range hotel/B&B, Pub meals/Mid-range restaurants, Shared car rental/Taxis, Entry fees for sites/some tours).
£350-£610+ total daily (Boutique hotel/Premium self-catering, Fine dining, Private transfers/Premium car rental, All major sites/private tours).
Daily cost estimates may fluctuate based on season, how far in advance you book, and specific choices.
Several strategies may help reduce expenses during your Orkney trip.
Staying in accommodation with a kitchen and cooking your own meals substantially lessens food costs. Supermarkets like Tesco, Lidl, and Co-op exist in Kirkwall and Stromness.
Many archaeological sites, like the Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, have free access. St Magnus Cathedral also has free entry, though donations are welcome.
For visits to multiple Historic Environment Scotland sites (Skara Brae, Maeshowe, Earl's Palace, Bishop's Palace), consider an Orkney Explorer Pass for savings.
