Youll find comfortable public areas with free Wi-Fi, as well as a cosy bar, and handy drying facilities, too. We also include a Boat trip around Noss during your time on Shetland (please note this only runs between May and mid-September). Among the settlements on Mainland, the largest island, is Scalloway, a fishing port. Be inspired by local artisans from jewellery-making to storytelling, the creative spirit on these islands has thrived for thousands of years. Check-in: TBA hrs
The islands geographic location makes it a crossroad for wildlife. The Orkneyinga saga (Old Norse: [orknyje s]; also called the History of the Earls of Orkney and Jarls' Saga) is a narrative of the history of the Orkney and Shetland islands and their relationship with other local polities, particularly Norway and Scotland.The saga has "no parallel in the social and literary record of Scotland" and is "the only medieval chronicle to have . For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ, Tel: 020 3117 0599 or www.abta.com, Hays Travel Limited are registered in England and Wales with company number 1990682 and VAT number 193167195. The breadth of history to be discovered here is without parallel in Scotland and is sure to amaze you. Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Revealed. Visit Orkney & Shetland | Orkney & Shetland Holidays - McKinlay Kidd Orkney played a vital role during both World Wars, and this afternoon we will travel to see Scapa Flow which provided a sheltered anchorage for the British naval fleet. Once checked-in onboard head to your comfortable twin-berth cabin with en-suite bathroom or enjoy time exploring the ship's many facilities. We will hold your data securely within our organisation, McKinlay Kidd Limited. Enjoy a complimentary chauffeur service, wines, premium spirits, speciality dining, gratuities, Wi-Fi and travel insurance. At the Isle of Hoy you can visit Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and learn the fascinating story of this naval anchorage in the two world wars. Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement. As a British citizen you will be entitled to free emergency health care on the NHS.If you are visiting Scotland from outside the United Kingdom and fall ill or are involved in an accident and are from any member of the European Economic Area or Switzerland, you can obtain free or reduced cost treatment with The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Half way between Orkney and Shetland is Fair Isle, a jewel of an island owned by the National Trust for Scotland and famous for its birds, knitwear and historic shipwrecks. Fair Isle | Shetland.org Available Until September 2023. Island hop the wild Scottish Northern Isles on this week's holiday to Orkney and Shetland From 895 to 1015 7 days ex flights. More than a million birds breed in very large colonies. These are at additional expense and, if available, details will be provided with your tour documentation. Today you'll be heading south to experience remarkable heritage sites. If, like us, you cant get enough of the archeological discoveries, head over to Rousay with its Midhowe Broch and Cairn. Jarlshof - explore this historic site, where people lived for more than 4,000 years, to see outstanding examples of Bronze Age and Viking houses, Scalloway - tour through this attractive fishing port that was once the island capital to visit the imposing ruins of 17th Century Scalloway Castle, Maeshowe - investigate this impressive chambered tomb and see the Viking graffiti left 1,000 years ago, Skara Brae - discover how early man lived at this amazingly well-preserved Stone Age settlement of dwelling houses complete with beds and chairs, Kirkwall - enjoy a three-night stay in this bustling port dominated by 12th Century St Magnus Cathedral, Movie locations Moondogs, The Long Hope and The Spy in Black. This amazingly well-preserved village was built 5,000 years ago. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. Discover squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe as you island hop between Mainland . Search. Outside these hours you can email one of our team atreservations@hfholidays.co.uk, or make a booking online. Our newsletter features exciting new itineraries, blog posts from the team, and fabulous competitions. Tour Returns: TBA hrs. We love the opportunity to use our first-hand knowledge and experience to design and deliver the perfect, bespoke holiday experience for you. The thousands of prehistoric Neolithic sites which have survived to tell their tale at the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO world heritage site are both spectacular and mysterious. How does the Care Funding Advice Service work? Wild Atlantic Way Discover Cork & Kerry, North Highlands & Orkney Guided Rail Tour, Loch Ness, The Jacobite & Skye Guided Rail Tour, Don't just take our word for it, read independent reviews, Exploring ancient civilisations in Orkney, The Best of Scotlands Highlands & Islands. This expanse of water has played witness to some monumental events. Travel to Orkney by ferry from Caithness, on the north coast of Scotland, with the crossing taking just under an hour. Starts from: Edinburgh. A fitting finale to the holiday, this walk along the magnificent granite coastline around Muckle Roe offers a chance to admire the windswept isolation and remote beauty of Shetland. Everything's taken care of on a Saga escorted tour, so you can see and do more. The Abbey was restored at the start of the 20thcentury and the Abbey now welcomes visitors from around the world who flock to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere. Stretching off Scotland's north coast are Shetland and Orkney, two very special archipelagos where Scotland meets Scandinavia. Its name, meaning Earls House, was bestowed by Sir Walter Scott when he used the ruins of the sixteenth century lairds house as a fictional setting. Earl Sigurd takes control. Meet Shetland ponies in their natural habitat. From 565, the time when Orkney and Shetland were Christianised, three generations, or ninety-nine years, would be ample time to account for the Pictish ecclesiastical monuments of which the remains have been found. They are home to a vast array of seabirds and unusual Scottish fauna, such as the rare Scottish Primrose, which means that the natural environment plays a starring role in any trip to these islands. British Isles Cruises 2023 | Cruising Holidays Studio Tour London - Harry Potter, Peaky Blinders Filming Location Tours 2023. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. Click the heart icon on the search or holiday pages to pin a holiday. Orkneyinga saga - Wikipedia Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. 8.4/5 (52 reviews) Great place! To make it easier, heres a list of items you should consider packing. These treasures are of such importance that UNESCO has designated them a World Heritage site. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. and a self-drive holiday of Shetland and Orkney guarantees memories to last a . A short drive to the western side of the Shetland mainland brings us to the old fishing port of Scalloway, which sits overlooking a sheltered bay. Based on 1 salaries posted anonymously by Saga Group Mi Analyst employees in Seaham, England. During the summer it is still light when you arrive. Discover their all-balcony cabins, huge choice of included speciality restaurants and bars, and an outdoor lido with a full wraparound deck. Keep an eye on everyone in your party and do not go off with people you do not know. After breakfast, we travel to the very south of the mainland to visit Jarlshof, where waves of settlers lived for more than 4,000 years. Regional departures and/or connections to London, if available, can be requested. Nowhere in Shetland is more than 3 miles from the sea and along the 1,697 miles of coastline you will find some of Britains highest cliffs, s Sumburgh airport, 25 miles south of Lerwick, is open 7 days a week, and direct flights operate from Aberdeen (1hr), Inverness (1hr), Edinburgh and Glasgow(both 1hr 30 mins) with Loganair. Family room - this is a room for three people sleeping in one large bed (2 people) and one single bed (1 person). After rejoining the ship for an evening sailing to Kirkwall, we have a further two full days touring Orkney, before our short crossing back to the mainland. While most tour operators use hotels around the capital, Lerwick, we choose to stay somewhere you can really appreciate Shetlands remote beauty. You will start your journey in the cosmopolitan city of Aberdeen where you will board the well-equipped Northlink Ferry and sail overnight in your modern and comfortable twin-berth cabin. Arrive on Orkney and settle in to the Merkister Hotel. Simply pop your details in the box below for the latest news, travel advice, destination inspiration, and special offers delivered straight to your inbox. Norway To Orkney Sailing In The Wake Of The Vikings - SchoonerSail Some of them are: Skara BraeThought to be one of Orkney's most visited tourist spots, Skara Brae is an ancient site which is older than Stonehenge. Further south on Mainland is Sumburgh Head, an ideal spot for twitchers with unobstructed views of the seabird colonies; Old Scatness, a recently excavated Iron Age village; and the Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse settlements, with archaeological treasures from over 4,000 years. We'll make a visit to view the remarkable paintings that can be found inside the simple corrugated metal exterior. In 1919 the German Navy scuttled itself as a grand act of defiance and, in 1939, HMS Royal Oak was sunk here by a U-boat. This is a far cry in both style and location from a chain hotel and all rooms are individually decorated. Orkney & Shetland Holidays | Scapa Travel Its a great way to make new friends! We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA's Code of Conduct. Already a firm favourite since her launch in 2019, step aboard Spirit of Discovery and discover the ships selection of grand public rooms, restaurants, balcony cabins and outside spaces. During our time here will visit the RSPB reserve which is home to many species of seabirds including puffins, guillemots and razorbills. The Tower has been restored over the past century, however not all of the original structure still remains. . Average salary for Saga Group Mi Analyst in Seaham, England: [salary]. 2,268. HF Holidays LimitedUnit 1, First FloorImperial PlaceMaxwell RoadBorehamwoodHertfordshire WD6 1JNUnited Kingdom, Monday to Friday: 9.00am - 5.30pmSaturday: 9.00am - 1.00pmSunday: ClosedBank Holidays: 9.00am - 1.00pm. These unassuming islands have a truly magical quality, and civilisation has thrived here for millennia. The coach will continue on to Glasgow, for passengers wishing to end their tour there. Also includes hotels in Alderney, Sark and Herm, plus the Isle of Wight, Isles of Scilly, Isle of Man and Shetland & Orkney Islands. Step back into the Stone Age in the Orkney and Shetland Islands, and come face-to-face with the legacy of the Vikings amid the turf-roofed cottages and ancient sites of the Faroes. Orkney and Shetland Archaeology Tours | Andante Travels Rated 4.88 out of 5 based on 5,609 reviews. Entry RequirementsWhen travelling between the UK, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man in most cases an official form of identification such as a Driver's License will be ok. You will not be able to use this site without JavaScript. Its difficult not to be inspired by sweeping panoramic views as you stroll along deserted white sandy beaches or gaze up at dramatic sea cliffs created by fierce volcanic eruptions and the ravages of the North Sea. add an extra night or two on each island group to explore in depth? From Glasgow and Edinburgh, we travel northwards through the Kingdom of Fife to reach Dundee, which sits overlooking the River Tay. Shetland Islands | History, Climate, Population, & Facts Uncover hidden gems and holiday inspiration from our team of travel specialists. Single cabins now available on all January to March 2023 cruises. This week-long fully-escorted Orkney & Shetland tour is a new addition to the McKinlay Kidd programme, building on our extensive knowledge of the destinations. 999 pp. The island's attractions include . Weather permitting, enjoy a welcome drink on the small terrace, which overlooks the distinctive pagoda-roof of the neighbours: the Highland Park distillery. Shetland: an epic landscape with a Viking soul | Scotland holidays Stop at Weisdale to see artists at work at Shetland Jewellery, before arriving at Northmavine where you could travel to the spectacular Eshaness Cliffs with their imposing lighthouse, or hike up to the top of Ronas Hill. Shetland - South Mainland. Orkney and Shetland Isles Holidays. Take in the breathtaking Old Man of Hoy a 450 foot sea stack and perhaps Orkneys most famous landmark. If you fancy some retail therapy, Kirkwall has a wealth of independent shops and craftworkers studios to be explored. And as more than fifth of our guests cruise solo, youll always be in good company. Explore Shetland & Orkney by Motorhome Our self-drive touring holiday of Orkney & Shetland gives you the opportunity to experience the landscapes, wildlife and archaeological heritage of these magical, and very different, parts of the UK. Arrive in Aberdeen at 0700 and enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking and continuing your onward journey. Orkney.com | This is Orkney At the ancient settlement of Jarlshof you can explore 4,000 years of human history. In each case, it is not necessarily added to the bill. Experience a unique blend of Scandinavian and Scottish culture, as the Norse history and heritage still shapes these islands today. Shetland: The northernmost part of the UK, Shetland is wild, rugged and beautiful. If you're flying here, public bus services connect with all the main airports in Scotland too. Any additional charge for the single supplement will be confirmed at the point of final payment and bookings are accepted on this understanding. and 'why?'. Shetland & Orkney Island Holidays . Lake District, Yorkshire & Hadrians Wall, Classic Yorkshire: Whitby, York & The Dales, East of England: Cambridge, Norfolk & Suffolk. Warner Bros. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. The Ayre Hotel. Designed with our guests in mind, our modern sister ships offer small-ship luxury with a private balcony for every guest. Shetland Islands Tours/Holidays - DC Thomson Travel Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists. Visit the Bishops and Earls Palaces where you can learn of a time when Orkney was part of the Norse-held kingdom of Nordreyjar. Walking is a wonderful way to discover the Orkney Islands. Orkney & Shetland Guided Small Group Tour - McKinlay Kidd From 799pp. Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients. Scotland's Northern Isles by Motorhome. It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. The card payment providers above are used for taking your payments by operators featured on our site. From jagged cliffs to unspoilt beaches and stone circles left by settlers some 4,000 years ago, the region is steeped in age-old history. As you sail below, the screeching is deafening, and youll feel very outnumbered, a stranger invading their territory. Relaxing hotel-based holidays in the sun, with a Saga host on hand. This iconic sea stack is only a few hundred years old. Guided wildlife tour of Shetland Isles. 2 miles (3km) with 200 feet (60m) of ascent. In nearby Scalloway an excellent museum tells the story of the top-secret WWII Shetland Bus operation. Comprehensive travel insurance is advised for all other nationals planning on visiting Scotland.If you need to contact the emergency services whilst in Scotland simply dial 999 or 112 to ask for an ambulance. The Shetland Islands | The Unbelievable Hidden Treasure of Scotland The nearby seaport of Stromness is famed for the Pier Arts Centre which showcases the work of artists and sculptors from Orkney and beyond. The restaurant prides itself on local produce, prepared to make the most of the fresh flavours. Our ships are smaller, but wonderfully spacious. We then have two full days to tour Shetland. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. In 1850 a fierce storm hit the Orkney Isles and the site of Skara Brae was uncovered; previously it was hidden beneath a grass mound. Highlights of Orkney & Shetland - DC Thomson Travel Orkney, an ancient cluster of 70 islands brimming with history and dramatic coastlines, lie off the north west coast of Scotland. It was raided by Norsemen in the 12th Century. If you enjoy the art of first-class travel whilst enjoying amazing value then an Escorted Tour is just for you. I flew from Glasgow to Kirkwall, the main town, instead of tak Reg No: 250017 | VAT No: 817 0144 57 | Copyright McKinlay Kidd Ltd 2023. The Old Man of Hoy. Our first visits are to the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. To help us reduce spam, please tick the reCAPTCHA field. 10 Day Shetland and Orkney Tour (self drive) Sign up for our newsletter and unlock exclusive tips and inspiration from our team of travel specialists. USA. Accommodation on board in a double/twin en-suite outer cabin is included in the price. Written in the early 13 th century when Shetland and Orkney were Norse possessions it really centers on Orkney which was undoubtedly the richer and more important of the two island groups. Uncover Orkney's Ancient Secrets. This self drive holiday to Orkney and Shetland gives you the opportunity to experience the wonderful landscapes, fascinating wildlife and archaeological heritage of these magical, and very different parts of the UK. However the earldom began, by the time of Earl Sigurd we are heading into more reliable territory - although still laced with myth and folklore. Shetland's council workers will not get the extra bank holiday on the Monday after King Charles's coronation. Orkney & Shetland Guided Island Hopping Holiday, Hebridean Hopscotch Guided Island Hopping Holiday, Lewis & Harris Guided Island Hopping Holiday, Experience wild and windswept natural landscapes, Spot wildlife on these relatively untouched islands, Comfortable en-suite rooms in our partner accommodation(s), Cooked or continental breakfast every morning, Full-board or half-board (please refer to trip notes), Three-course evening meals, plus tea & coffee, Guided walks with an experienced HF Holidays Leader, All transport to and from walks where necessary, Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip, Waterproof and windproof jacket, preferably insulated, Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable), Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve), Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters, First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent, Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace). Overnight Orkney. Day 9. Are you sure you would like to continue with this room size? If you only require a specific response to this enquiry and have no interest in receiving occasional information, news or offers from McKinlay Kidd in future, please email unsubscribe at mckinlaykidd dot com. Specialists in offering a range of adventure holidays, tours and incredible wilderness experiences. Explore archaeological wonders such as Skara Brae, Jarlshof, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness. NB these cruise details have been updated - Please see the new trip page - Orkney, Shetland, Faroe Islands and St Kilda cruise.. Later return to Kirkwall where dinner is served in our hotel. Includes 9 nights accommodation (2 of which will be on the ferry to and from Shetland) and ferry costs. Your Holiday in Shetland and Orkney | NorthLink Ferries Book your holiday today with Planet Cruise! The strong historical and cultural influence of Norway upon these islands is clear in their timber-framed and brightly coloured architecture. The Stones were erected around 3000BC and it is thought that they were some kind of astronomical calendar associated with the moon. 8 nights from. menu. Please contact us for information on child prices. 2,599. Excellent, informative, enjoyable tour. Orkney Guided Island Hopping Holiday - HF Holidays To prevent further attacks, a series of four barriers were constructed using Italian prisoners of war. Be aware of your surroundings and don't venture off on your own. Later we make the short drive to Sumburgh Head, where the waters of the North Sea meet the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Honest and easy 2 minute travel guide including what makes Shetland Islands so special as well as map and highlights. Orkney and Shetland Holidays | Wilderness Scotland Uncover Orkneys Ancient Secrets - Shearings Please see Terms and Conditions for further details. The Ski Solutions team are all skiing experts, and their wealth of knowledge and passion for the mountains will ensure you experience a truly memorable ski holiday. Cruising is another great way of accessing this remote Scottish wilderness, allowing you to explore in comfort. Tour Departs: TBA hrs
For some magnificent coastal drama of a different kind, take a trip to Eshaness and watch the waves crashing around the sea stacks and pounding the cliffs. It is a wonderful way to get a real feel for both the culture and the wildlife of these islands, with knowledgeable guides on hand to inform. Shetland & Orkney Holiday - Hart Holidays Scottish Holiday Specialist Several of the prisoners have returned to Orkney over the years to assist with the restoration of the building. Its the most southerly point of mainland Shetland and where thousands of species of seabird come ashore to nest on the cliffs. Sailing Fair Isle | Orkney to Shetland | Shetland To Orkney The ultimate collection of European cycling holidays. P&O Iona; Anthem of the Seas; Regal Princess; MSC Virtuosa; Queen Mary 2 . Read more, Need something more tailored? Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. Some cruises also incorporate the Faroe Isles. Next, we make for Maeshowe, a magnificent chambered tomb that dates from around 2,500 BC. Jna Sparey has been organising and conducting tours to Iceland - her Mother's homeland - and to many other places around the world since 1985. If you would like to spend an extra night or two on either Orkney or Shetland, wed be delighted to assist. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. The diversity of these islands is astounding, a distinctive mixture of Scandinavian history scattered across a rugged Scottish landscape, and a self-drive holiday of Shetland and Orkney guarantees memories to last a lifetime. The islands are also blessed with an extraordinary natural beauty. This holiday is based on ferry crossings, starting from the north coast of Scotland near Thurso and returning to Aberdeen. The landscape is wild and remote and, outside of the . Language: EnglishCurrency: Pound SterlingTime Zone: GMTTipping: 10 to 12% is usual for hotels with 10 to 15% being usual for restaurants.