Excursion Neolithic discovery tour at Kirkwall

Explore the archaeological wonders of Orkney during this half-day excursion to the ancient sites of West Mainland guided by a local archaeologist.

The Ring of Brodgar

Depart the pier for the approximate 30-minute drive into the interior of the West Mainland.  Upon arrival at the narrow neck of land between the Harray and Stenness lochs, your first stop is at the Ring of Brodgar, a splendid reminder of the Stone Age.  Here, see 27 of the original 60 stones set in a precise circle and six degrees apart.  These stones date from about 2700 B.C.

Skara Brae

Next, re-board your coach and drive farther north to Skara Brae, one of the best-preserved Stone Age settlements in Western Europe.  Skara Brae was discovered after a fierce storm in 1850.  For centuries, the site was covered with layers of sand, which accounts for its excellent state of preservation.  During your visit, see houses with stone furniture, hearths and a drainage system.  Artefacts such as tools, beads, pottery, stone and whalebone items, thought to have been in use between 3000 and 2000 B.C., were also discovered here.

Skaill House

Other highlights at Skara Brae include Skaill House, built for Bishop George Graham in the 1620s. During recent restorations, skeletons from a pre-Norse graveyard were unearthed from beneath the Main Hall.  There are some fascinating relics on display, including a chest from a Spanish galleon sunk in 1588 and china from Captain Cook's ship, Resolution.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the short drive through the ruggedly beautiful Orkney countryside en route to the pier.

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over unpaved, uneven and grassy paths, with a few steps to negotiate to get on and off the coach and numerous steps at the venues. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair.  Warm, layered clothing, sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended.  Photography and videography are not permitted inside Skaill House.  The tour sequence may vary.The coaches utilised on this tour are air-cooled.