The earliest visible parts of the Bishop's Palace date to the 12th century. The imposing round tower was added to the hall-house about 1550 and further modifications were made around 1600. It has been described as the most accomplished piece of Renaissance architecture left in Scotland.

Probably dating to the 1st century AD, Gurness broch gives a fascinating insight into Orcadian village life around 2000 years ago.

Maeshowe is the finest chambered tomb in north-west Europe and more than 5000 years old. It was broken into in the mid-twelfth century by Viking crusaders who carved graffiti runes on the walls of the main chamber. In 1999, Maeshowe was designated part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site, along with Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar and the Stones of Stenness. Access is by guided tour only so please call ahead to book. Tel: 01856 761606.

When a wild storm on Orkney in 1850 exposed the ruins of ancient dwellings, Skara Brae, the best preserved prehistoric village in northern Europe, was discovered. The excavated farming settlement dates back 5000 years. Within the stone walls of the dwellings – separated by passages – are stone beds, dressers, seats and boxes for provisions, recesses for personal possessions, and a hearth where dried heather, bracken or seaweed was burned.