Past & Present Island Life
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Port
Kirkwall, Scotland, United Kingdom
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$160
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3¾ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Depart Kirkwall and head into the west of Mainland, Orkney’s largest island. This tour passes through the gentle rolling landscape of Orkney.
Visit Barony Mill, a working 19th century mill which still grinds ‘bere’: an ancient form of barley grown in the surrounding countryside. Meet the current miller and see a demonstration of how the barley is traditionally ground between the mill stones from the power of the waterwheel.
Depart for Stromness and disembark the coach for a comfort stop before enjoying the next part of the tour on foot. Stay with the guide to hear about Stromness life or enjoy independent free time. Walk past the picturesque harbour with its fishing boats and ferry gateway to mainland Scotland. Carry on through the pretty flag-stoned Stromness high street with its quirky architectural character and learn about the history as well as contemporary living in Orkney’s second most populous town.
Visit the beautifully refurbished Pier Arts Centre (time permitting) with exhibitions by both local and international artists. There may also be time to explore the craft shops selling local knitwear, pottery and artwork.
Return to the coach and continue the circular route following the coastline of Scapa Flow, a famous British Naval Base in both World Wars which is used today as one of the transfer and processing points for North Sea oil.