Scotland: An Archaeologist's View of Orkney and Shetland 765
Scotland: An Archaeologist's View of Orkney and Shetland 765
$2795
Scotland: An Archaeologist's View of Orkney and Shetland 765
6 Days Starting and ending in Scotland
Visiting: Dunnottar Castle, Aberdeen, Lerwick, Mousa, Scatness Broch, Jarlshof, Sumburgh Head, Scalloway, St Ninian's Isle, Tingwall Valley, Kirkwall, Orkney, Churchill Barriers, Italian Chapel, St. Magnus Cathedral, Earl's Palace, Bishop's Palace, The Orkney Museum, Skara Brae, Ness of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness, Maeshowe, Stromness, Scrabster
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BOSA
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
6 - 25
Age range:
1-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Please contact Brightwater with any specific dietary requirements
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Ruins-Archaeology, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through Scotland's Orkney and Shetland Islands with "Scotland: An Archaeologist's View of Orkney and Shetland 765." This tour offers a unique exploration of ancient and modern history, guided by an archaeological expert. Discover the best-preserved Iron Age tower at Mousa Broch, and delve into the multi-period settlement of Jarlshof. Experience the UNESCO World Heritage site of Neolithic Orkney, and reflect on more recent history at the Churchill Barriers and Italian Chapel. Travel comfortably by coach and ferry, with accommodations and meals included as per the itinerary. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife, from seabirds to seals, while immersing yourself in the historical narratives that shaped these islands. This tour promises an enriching experience for archaeology enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1
Location: Dunnottar Castle, Aberdeen, Lerwick
Accommodation Name: Northlink Ferry
Meals Included: Dinner
We depart from your local pick-up point and travel north, stopping for lunch en-route (not included). Continuing north, we will stop for a photo opportunity at Dunnottar Castle, a dramatic ruined clifftop fortress which can trace its origins to a 3rd century Pictish fortress and was once the home of the Earls Marischal, one of the most powerful families in Scotland.
We then continue to Aberdeen where we board the Northlink Ferry ‘Hrossey’ (or her sister ship ‘Hjaltland’) for our overnight sailing to Lerwick (departs 19.00hrs).
Once on board we shall check-in to our comfortable cabins which all have en-suite facilities. The ship has a delightful restaurant where we will have dinner, thereafter you may wish to relax in the bar or lounges. There is also a well-stocked gift shop for souvenir shopping or essential items.
Day 2
Location: Lerwick, Mousa, Scatness Broch, Jarlshof, Sumburgh Head, Scalloway
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Scalloway Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Our ship is due to arrive in Lerwick at 07.30hrs. After breakfast on board (available from 07.15hrs) we will leave the ship and commence our tour of Shetland travelling through small communities such as Gulberwick and Cunningsburgh. At Sandwick we transfer to a small ferry to cross as foot passengers over to the fascinating little island of Mousa, where we will visit the 2000 year old iron age broch. Remarkably the broch of Mousa still stands to its original height of 13m. The island is also a nature reserve and is rich in wildlife. Storm petrels, Arctic terns and Skuas nest here, and harbour seals lounge on the shore. Keep a sharp eye on Mousa Sound and you may also spot porpoises and the odd killer whale.
Please note the trail on Mousa is uneven, steep, narrow, stony and boggy in places, and therefore not suitable for those visitors requiring extra mobility assistance or are not sure-footed. Walking or wellington boots and waterproof clothing are recommended. There are no toilets and no seating or shelter on the island.
If for any reason (weather or boat problems – sadly it can happen) we will visit Scatness Broch on Mainland Shetland.
On returning to the mainland we will stop at Hoswick Visitor Centre for lunch (not included). Later we will travel the short distance to the outstanding Prehistoric and Norse Settlement of Jarlshof, with over 3 acres of remains, spanning 3000 years since the days of the Stone Age, including oval shaped bronze age houses, an iron age broch and wheel houses, Viking long houses and medieval farmhouses.
We then visit the nearby cliffs at Sumburgh Head, where the North Sea on the east meets the Atlantic Ocean on the west. The cliffs here are quite spectacular and there is also an RSPB reserve which is home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots and razorbills.
Later we transfer to our accommodation at the Scalloway Hotel. Dinner will be served in the evening.
Day 3
Location: St Ninian's Isle, Scalloway, Tingwall Valley, Lerwick, Kirkwall
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kirkwall Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning after breakfast we travel southwards, stopping first at St Ninian’s Isle and its church dating from the 6th century when Christianity first came to Shetland. It is also famous for its treasure of 9th century silverware found by a young schoolboy in 1958 which was believed to have been hidden to prevent Viking raiders removing them.
We travel to Scalloway, the former capital of Shetland where we visit the ruined castle built in 1600 by the infamous Earl Patrick Stewart. After time for lunch in Scalloway (not included) we continue through Tingwall Valley, the site of the old Norse parliament (Ting) before returning back to Lerwick with time to explore the historic town before we board our ship for Orkney. Dinner is served on board.
On arrival in Orkney (expected at 23.00hrs) we will transfer the short distance to our accommodation in Kirkwall.
Day 4
Location: Orkney, Churchill Barriers, Italian Chapel, Kirkwall, St. Magnus Cathedral, Earl's Palace, Bishop's Palace, The Orkney Museum
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kirkwall Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning following breakfast we will depart on a tour of the south end of mainland Orkney, crossing the Churchill Barriers which were built after the sinking of the HMS Royal Oak in October 1939. The causeways are built of 5 and 10 ton concrete blocks and have good roads on the top connecting Burray and South Ronaldsay to the Orkney mainland.
We also stop off at the beautiful Italian Chapel, built on the site of a former prisoner of war camp. Several hundred Italians, captured during the North African campaign of World War II were sent here to work on the Causeways and converted two huts into a chapel. The marvellous paintings in the interior were done by Domenico Chiocchetti, one of the prisoners who has returned several times to restore and repaint parts of the building.
We then return to Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, where have free time to explore its environs at leisure. Places of interest include St. Magnus Cathedral – one of Europe’s greatest architectural masterpieces, its red and yellow sandstone still vibrant after 861 years; the Earl’s Palace and the Bishop’s Palace and The Orkney Museum.
Dinner will be served in our hotel this evening.
Day 5
Location: Orkney, Skara Brae, Ness of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness, Maeshowe
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kirkwall Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning after breakfast, we have an all day excursion of west mainland Orkney visiting the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. We will begin with a visit to Skara Brae, with its new visitor centre depicting the history of this world-famous monument, and Skaill House, a fascinating architectural medley to the side of Skara Brae.
We will then travel to the site of the Ness of Brodgar excavation. Although the excavation has now been completed, we will still be able to enjoy a virtual tour which will tell the story of the Ness and the ongoing post excavation analysis and research, plus putting the site into the wider neolithic landscape setting. There will also the opportunity to see up close some of the amazing artifacts discovered over the past 20 years, and time for a Q&A. Signed copies of books and other Ness merchandise will be available.
Later this afternoon we will visit the Standing Stones of Stenness and Brodgar, with the adjacent Neolithic village of Barnhouse, before continuing to Maeshowe, the finest chambered tomb in Western Europe. Built before 2700 B.C. Maeshowe was raided by Vikings in the 12th Century. It thus houses the largest collection of runic inscriptions to be found in any one place in the world.
Dinner will be served in our hotel this evening.
Day 6
Location: Stromness, Scrabster
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast today we check out of the hotel and transfer to Stromness where we will board the late morning Northlink ferry to Scrabster. On arrival we will then begin our journey back to our original pick-up points, where we expect to arrive in the late afternoon-early evening.
(please note Aberdeen and Dundee are not available as drop-off points).
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.
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Services of an archaeological expert as tour manager
An archaeological expert will serve as the tour manager throughout the trip.
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Comfortable coach travel throughout
Comfortable coach travel is provided for the duration of the tour.
What's Not Included
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Lunch on Day 1
Lunch on Day 1 is not included in the tour package.
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Lunch on Day 2
Lunch on Day 2 is not included in the tour package.
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Lunch on Day 3
Lunch on Day 3 is not included in the tour package.
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Mobility assistance on Mousa Island
The trail on Mousa Island is not suitable for visitors requiring extra mobility assistance.
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Toilets and seating on Mousa Island
There are no toilets, seating, or shelter on Mousa Island.
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Drop-off points in Aberdeen and Dundee
Aberdeen and Dundee are not available as drop-off points at the end of the tour.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with coach travel throughout, ferry crossings, and overnight sailings on the Northlink Ferry, ensuring a seamless journey across Scotland's stunning landscapes and islands.Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays at the Scalloway Hotel and Kirkwall Hotel, with en-suite facilities and delightful dining options, ensuring a relaxing and pleasant experience throughout your journey.Check out our Q&As
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What type of expert will accompany the tour?
The tour will be accompanied by an archaeological expert who will serve as the tour manager.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
Comfortable coach travel is provided throughout the tour, along with ferry crossings.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Meals are included as per the itinerary, although some lunches are not included.
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What should I wear for the visit to Mousa Island?
It is recommended to wear walking or wellington boots and waterproof clothing as the trail on Mousa is uneven, steep, narrow, stony, and boggy in places.
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Is the trail on Mousa Island suitable for everyone?
The trail on Mousa Island is not suitable for visitors requiring extra mobility assistance or those who are not sure-footed.
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What wildlife might I see on Mousa Island?
On Mousa Island, you may see storm petrels, Arctic terns, skuas, harbour seals, porpoises, and possibly killer whales.
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What happens if the visit to Mousa Island is not possible?
If the visit to Mousa Island is not possible due to weather or boat problems, the tour will visit Scatness Broch on Mainland Shetland instead.
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What historical sites will be visited on the tour?
The tour includes visits to historical sites such as Dunnottar Castle, Mousa Broch, Jarlshof, St Ninian’s Isle, Scalloway Castle, the Churchill Barriers, the Italian Chapel, Skara Brae, the Ness of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness and Brodgar, and Maeshowe.
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Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?
You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.
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What facilities do your coaches have?
Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.
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Do I have to go on the included excursions?
Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.
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Is there time to relax?
Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.
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Do I need to be an expert?
Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.
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How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?
You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding
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Do you have self-drive holidays?
Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!
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What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?
There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.
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Where are your departure points?
UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .
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What about the company that will be kept?
For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.
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What is a Brightwater Holiday?
Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.
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Why is there a single supplement?
Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.
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How much are your optional excursions?
Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.
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Can I pre-book my coach seats?
Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.
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How to get there? Easy!
With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.
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Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.
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Aug 25, 2025 - Aug 30, 2025Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit for future tours
Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.
At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.