Autumn in Orkney is a special time of year. It's a season full of dramatic light, stunning sunsets, wild weather and so much more.
Things slow down too after the whirlwind of summer activity, giving you the perfect chance to visit some of our sites in solitude.
Find out some of our favourite things to see and do during autumn in Orkney.
History
After the summer season, the autumn months take on a completely different feel. Visitors can truly indulge in some peace and quiet across a range of stunning sites; why not take in a sunset at the Ring of Brodgar or brave the beach at Skaill after visiting Skara Brae? There is still time to visit places like Tomb of the Eagles and Skaill House in October before they close for the winter too. You could explore Orkney's fascinating Viking and wartime history too.
The weather in Orkney during autumn can be changeable to say the least. Come prepared for anything, but also be ready to retreat indoors if you need to! Even if the worst comes to the worst, there are still plenty of historical delights to be found with a roof over your head.
The Orkney Museum in Kirkwall and the Stromness Museum are open throughout the year, with fantastic collections focusing on more than 5000 years of history. You can also visit heritage centres in Eday, Flotta, North Ronaldsay, Papa Westray, Rousay, Sanday, Shapinsay and Westray. All are full of information and artefacts exploring island life. Don’t forget places like Ness Battery and St Magnus Cathedral too, where guided tours are available to engage and inspire you.
Heritage
Orcadians have always enjoyed a good story. Tall tales told by the fireside in old crofts have been passed down through the generations, and now that oral tradition is celebrated every year at the Orkney Storytelling Festival.
The rich folklore of Orkney, with mystical selkie folk, mischievous trows and malevolent stoor-worms, provides a captivating basis for the festival, which also welcomes visiting storytellers from around the world. Listen in as legends are brought to life at venues across the islands with a packed programme of events at the end of October. There’s nothing better than stepping inside, wrapping up warm and listening to good stories told well.
Orcadians are proud of our food and drink heritage too. A dram by the fire is an essential part of island life for many – explore where those drams come from with a tour of Highland Park Distillery and Scapa Distillery. You’ll learn all about the heritage of these world-famous whiskies, and you’ll get a sample or two as well.
You can also see beer from the Orkney Brewery being made on a tour of its base in Quoyloo, and enjoy a pint or two in the café. Both the Deerness Distillery and the Orkney Distillery offer tours, tasters and more as well.
Nature
The different seasons bring their own natural highlights, and autumn is such a perfect time to experience wild Orkney. September sees the start of the grey seal pupping season, which can last until mid-December. These tiny pups have a harsh introduction to life, surviving on rocky island shores until they’re old and strong enough to find their way into the sea.
Some of the best seal-watching sites can be found in the north isles, where hundreds of seals gather onshore. Windwick in South Ronaldsay is also a good option, with an elevated view over the beach. A word of caution though - getting too close to the pups and their mothers is not a good idea and can frighten them. These animals are best observed from a very respectful distance.
Remember to look to the skies as well as the seas during the autumn months – you never know what you’ll find. Migrating birds pass over the islands on a constant basis and you could see the likes of redwings, siskins and bramblings, as well as barnacle and pink-footed geese. There will be waders in the fields and on the shore, plus a whole host of other possibilities. Take a trip to the North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory for the chance to see some rare and beautiful visitors, or travel to one of our 12 RSPB reserves.
Landscapes & Seascapes
Autumn may very well be the best time of year to embrace the elements in Orkney. There are often beautiful sunsets as the days get shorter and the light can offer incredible photograpy opportunities.
Then, the next day, you could be out and about in the face of a gale as waves crash against the coast and cliffs at Yesnaby, Marwick and Mull Head. The aftermath of these storms can make beachcombing a fascinating pursuit too. Check out our landscapes and seascapes itinerary and film for more inspiration.
Island hopping is one of the great Orkney adventures. These small communities all hold a magical quality and days spent exploring them are well worth it. You could blow away the cobwebs with a walk to Orkney’s highest point on Ward Hill in Hoy. How about a day-trip to Papa Westray, or a walk on Flotta’s wartime trail? The possibilities are endless.
There is always somewhere to explore in Orkney, so why not come and take a closer look during autumn, whatever the weather.
Visit our See You at the Weekend page for travel ideas and special offers in Orkney this autumn.
The Digital Orkney project has been part financed by the Scottish Government and the European Community Orkney LEADER 2014-2020 Programme.