TOUR D - KIRKWALL WALKING TOUR
Excursions
- 25 - 35
- 2.5 Hours
- Limited capacity
Meeting on the quayside, we take a leisurely stroll together through the historical Old Town of Kirkwall, the Viking Capital of the Orkney Islands, to the magnificent and beautiful 12th century, red sandstone Cathedral of St Magnus, known locally as the 'Light of the North'. We will have a guided tour of the cathedral. It is the finest medieval building in northern Scotland. Roundabout, there are many narrow, winding streets and lanes, which have hardly altered at all over the centuries.
Afterwards, the tour continues to the ruined Bishop's Palace (a good view of the town can be gained from the top of the 'Moosie Toor') and then the Earl's Palace, one of Scotland's most elegant Renaissance buildings. Both lie in the heart of modern Kirkwall and colourful tales of the history of the tyrannical Stewart Earls are told as we walk among the buildings, bringing the history alive. Our guide will ensure we make the most of these visits.
We then finish at Tankerness House (now home of The Orkney Museum) and Gardens. From here we shall have free time to explore the museum for ourselves if we wish, or to stroll around the town, or we can return with the guide to our ship.
TOUR NOTES: This tour is not suitable for passengers with limited mobility or wheelchair users. Although the walking is at a leisurely pace, approximately three kilometres (two miles) in total will be covered, many of the streets are narrow and winding, and steps will be encountered. We will be in groups of up to 25 per guide. The visit to St Magnus Cathedral is dependent upon no religious functions taking place – therefore we can not guarantee an inside visit will be made. If passengers choose to have free time in the town after the tour, they will walk back to the ship (about a 15-minute walk) on their own. Depending on our berth, shuttle buses may be used to take us to and from the town. For those wishing to visit – entrance to the museum is free. We recommend you wear stout shoes or walking boots and bring a waterproof jacket in case of rain.
DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR THE 2011 SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC SEASON.
Snack or meal provided
Refreshments available
Free time
Shopping opportunity
Wheelchair access
Swimming opportunity
All prices are based on operating costs, tariffs and rates of exchange and are subject to change without notice.
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