Orkney
Orkney is a group of 70 islands or so - 19 of which are inhabited - lying not far off the north coast of Scotland. These islands retain a unique character all of their own, a land defined by the past and shaped by the sea.
You cannot fail to be inspired by the beauty of the landscape. Here you will find over 600 miles of coastline, home to pristine beaches and clear waters. See grey seals bask on rocky shores, marvel at unique Orcadian flora, admire colossal cliff scenery or try your hand at fishing on an inland lochs teeming with trout.
Orkney is steeped in history and has a rich archaeological heritage of its own being home to numerous prehistoric sites from tombs and monoliths to Viking settlements and stone circles. Declared a World Heritage Site, parts of Orkney have been inhabited since before the pyramids were constructed in Egypt.
Travel back to 5,000 years ago when you visit Skara Brae and explore the best preserved group of archaic houses in Western Europe. Or try and decipher an amazing collection of runes, a prehistoric form of graffiti, left on the walls of the Neolithic chambered cairn of Maeshowe.
You can trace your ancestors in Orkney through the Orkney Family History Society and you might be surprised to learn that you share your surname with the locals or uncover hidden stories locked away for centuries. Whether you are certain that you have Orkney ancestors or you are just hoping to find that window into the past, there is plenty of history on offer.
The inspiring light and landscape of Orkney has given rise to a vibrant arts and crafts scene. Follow the well-trodden craft trail and discover unique Orcadian design in jewellery, paintings, pottery and stunning traditional chairs made from driftwood and oat straw.
Despite being sparsely populated, Orkney boasts a lively programme of events year round, from the infamous ‘ba’ game’ to wine festivals, folk sessions and ceilidhs.