24-48 Hours in Orkney: Must-Visit Distilleries and Island Highlights

Distillery Tours Scotland | Whisky Tours Orkney | Alcohol Tours in Scotland | Craft Gin & Whisky Experiences

Orkney is one of the most unforgettable stops for anyone exploring alcohol tours in Scotland. From legendary whisky names to pioneering craft distillers, this wild island chain blends heritage, hospitality, and spirits that speak of sea, turf, and tradition. Whether you’ve got 24 hours or a full weekend, here’s how to sip your way through Orkney in style.

🥃 Must-Visit Distilleries in Orkney

The Orkney Distillery- Kirkwall’s Harbour‑Front Spirit House

A distinct offering from the core whisky lineup, The Orkney Distillery (famous for its Kirkjuvagr gin) has recently entered the whisky and rum game. With whisky licences granted in 2023 and first distillations on International Whisky Day, their blended wild‑crafted malt whiskies (like Hoy and Fara) are already generating buzz. If you’re seeking new Orkney distilling stories, this harbour‑front visitor centre is a must. Expect gin tours, whisky tastings, and distinctive island hospitality. Must-book: Gin, blended malt whisky, and rum tours overlooking Kirkwall harbour

Highland Park Distillery- The Viking Heart of Orkney

One of Scotland’s northernmost distilleries, Highland Park produces drams rich in smoky peat and heather honey- bold, balanced, and utterly memorable. The visitor centre offers everything from classic tastings to immersive Viking Soul experiences. Set above Kirkwall and kissed by salty Orkney air, this is whisky storytelling at its best. Must-book: Viking Legends or Twilight Tour & Tasting

Scapa Distillery- A Hidden Gem Overlooking Scapa Flow

Just a half-mile south of Highland Park, Scapa offers elegant single malts with coastal finesse. Their boutique tours bring insight into how Orkney’s maritime climate shapes a uniquely refined spirit. With sweeping views over Scapa Flow, it’s a serene complement to Highland Park’s boldness. Must-book: Orkney Tasting Experience

📍 Other Things to Do in Orkney on a Whisky Tour

• 🪨 Ring of Brodgar & Standing Stones of Stenness- Ancient Neolithic monuments older than Stonehenge.

• 🪨 Yesnaby Castle – A stunning sea stack and clifftop walk on Orkney’s dramatic west coast- perfect for windswept photos and wild coastal views.

• ⛵️ Stromness Harbour- A picture-perfect fishing town with cosy cafés, galleries, and maritime charm.

• 🏠 Kirkwall- Explore St. Magnus Cathedral, local crafts, and seafood dining near the distilleries.

  
  

  🍽️ Where to Eat on Your Orkney Whisky Weekend

  
  

  Orkney’s food scene is as rich as its drams. Look out for local seafood, cheeses, and island-reared meats in cosy pubs, harbour-view restaurants, and farm-to-table bistros. Try The Foveran for fine dining just outside Kirkwall, The Storehouse in Kirkwall for hearty, locally sourced meals, or Ferry Inn in Stromness for relaxed dining with a great whisky list.

  
  

  

  
  

🚢 How to Get to Orkney

Reaching Orkney is part of the adventure. You can either fly or take a ferry, depending on your starting point:

• By ferry: NorthLink Ferries run regular sailings from Scrabster (near Thurso) to Stromness, and from Aberdeen to Kirkwall. Pentland Ferries also operate from Gills Bay to St. Margaret’s Hope.

• By air: Direct flights are available from major Scottish cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen, landing at Kirkwall Airport.

Booking transport in advance- especially in summer is highly recommended.

🏨 Where to Stay on Your Orkney Whisky Weekend

Choose from boutique inns, B&Bs in Kirkwall or Stromness, or historic cottages by the coast. Pro tip: Book early for summer or festival season- accommodation and transport sell out fast.

✅ Ready to Book Your Orkney Whisky & Spirits Tour?

Sip Seekers makes it easy to book standout distillery tours across Scotland- including whisky, gin, and rum experiences on Orkney. Explore, sip smarter, and enjoy spirits born of sea, soil, and story. Your Orkney alcohol tour starts here.

🔍 FAQs about Orkney Distillery Tours

When is the best time to visit Orkney for a spirits tour? Spring through early autumn is ideal- especially during whisky events and festivals, with longer daylight and better weather.

Can you tour these distilleries without a car? Yes! Highland Park, Scapa, and The Orkney Distillery are walkable from Kirkwall. Taxi and bus links are available too.

Are there non‑whisky alcohol tours in Orkney? Definitely. The Orkney Distillery and Vassie’s offer cocktail-worthy gin and rum tastings you won’t want to skip.