Although Orkney is well south of the Arctic Circle, it doesn't really get dark in summer. In fact, there is a mid-summer golf tournament, which tees off at midnight! It has also been said that you could read a newspaper at midnight, but you would probably struggle to get beyond the headlines.

This picture of a fishing boat in Stromness Harbour was taken at about 10:00 P.M. in June 1995.

Skara Brae is located by a beautiful stretch of sandy beach on the west coast of Mainland, where the waters are warmed by the Gulf Stream.

Access

The islands may be reached by ferry from Aberdeen, Wick (foot passengers only) and Thurso, or by air (40 mins) from Aberdeen.

Contacts

Orkney Tourist Board: 6 Broad St, Kirkwall, KW15 1NX. Tel. 01856 872856
Historic Scotland: Longmore House, Salisbury Place, Edinburgh EH9 1SH Tel. 0131-668 8800
Accommodation: The Ferry Inn, Stromness. KW16 3AA Tel. 01856 850280; Taversoe Hotel, Rousay. KW17 2PT Tel. 01856 821325
Travel: Wildabout guided minibus tours 5 Clouston Corner, Stennes, Orkney KW17 3LD Tel. 01856 851011; Air travel between islands Loganair 01856 872494; Orkney Ferries Ltd, Shore St, Kirkwall Tel. 01856 872044

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Contacts