Council area in Scotland
| Coordinates: | 59.06, -2.87 |
|---|---|
| OS grid ref: | HY 50 19 |
The Orkney Islands lie off the north coast of Scotland, an archipelago of around 70 islands, of which about a dozen are inhabited. The largest island, the Mainland, hosts the administrative centre in Kirkwall, while Stromness serves as the main harbour town.
Orkney punches above its weight for archaeology: the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage area contains Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar and Maeshowe, and the waters of Scapa Flow carry a dramatic First and Second World War history. The landscape mixes fertile farmland, windswept moor and rocky coast, supporting huge seabird colonies and rich marine life.
The local economy leans on farming, fishing, renewables and tourism, with growing expertise in marine energy testing and related supply chains, and a lively cultural scene centred on festivals and traditional music in Kirkwall. Island life is strongly community-minded, with ferries and short flights linking smaller islands and a distinctive Orkney identity shaped by Norse heritage and local crafts.