12 Free Days Out and Things to Do With Kids in Orkney (Updated 2025)
Ahoy there money-savvy adventurers.
If you're looking to for a fun and free day out, then check out these things to do with the kids in Orkney. Whether it's stepping back in time at Midhowe Chambered Cairns, or letting off steam at Happy Valley, there's options here to suit all ages, whatever the weather.
I've tried to make sure that all the details on here are up to date, but please do double check on the websites I've linked to before you travel in case anything has changed. Especially important: double check parking costs to avoid any nasty surprises on a day out that was supposed to be cheap, and obviously, be careful if you're visiting places with kids, especially where the terrain is dangerous (ruins, cliffs, beaches, slippy paths etc).
Happy adventuring!
Lucy
The largest Neolithic standing stone circle in Scotland, built in a circle almost 104 metres wide.
A packed museum telling the history of Orkney, from the neolithic, to the picts and the vikings, with activities for kids.
A tidal island (take note not to get trapped when the tide comes in!). There's a sandy beach, rockpooling, a lighthouse to stand outside, and Pictish, Norse, and Medieval ruins, set in a stunning location with the backdrop of waves crashing from the Atlantic.
The UK's tallest sea stack. It originally had 2 pillars creating an arch at the bottom, but a severe storm washed away one of the legs. It's a moderate hike along some windy cliffs, fairly steep in parts.
Learn all about Orkney's involvement in the First and Second World Wars. Refurbished in 2022, packed with interesting artefacts.
A time capsule displaying bygone days, it's the last un-restored example of a traditional ‘firehoose’ in Northern Europe, with a central hearth, peat fire, and a stone neuk bed. There's also an Edwardian parlour, and Victorian gardens.
A 20 hectare nature reserve with a mile of high cliffs. See what birds you can spot, as well as visiting the Kitchener Memorial (remembering the sinking of the HMS Hampshire). Dolphins have been spotted before from here.
An independent maritime museum, with a vintage lifeboat, as well as other interesting artefacts and poignant stories from history.
Midhowe Chambered Cairn - Rousay
One of the finest Chambered Cairns in Scotland, underneath a hanger to protect it. You can view the compartments from raised walkways. Next to it is a 2000 year old Broch, perfect for playing hide and seek.
A rare little wooded area in Orkney. Quiet and tranquil, there are trails to explore, and a stream running through it.
Built around 1560 for Gilbert Balfour, master of Mary, Queen of Scot's household. There are information plaques to tell you more history. Ruined, there are some rooms, tunnels and staircases to explore.
A rare oasis of woodland on mainland. A secluded and enchanting place with a waterfall, arches, and stone benches.
Feeling a Little Frazzled?
Here's a few things I've made that'll hopefully make your life a little bit easier, a little bit more fulfilled, or simply a little bit more fun. Check out these bits along with loads of other parenting aids on the link below.
Make your little mermaid's party perfect with these personalised printables including invites, signs, bunting, crafts and games.
You know what the kids need? An epic activity pack! And it should be filled with easy activity ideas, and stickers, and personalised!
