Summer in Orkney

Summer is one of the most popular times of year to visit Orkney.

It’s your chance to experience the best of the weather, make the most of the long daylight hours and soak up plenty of local culture. 

I thought I’d share some of my favourite things to experience during summer in Orkney, plus a few tips on what not to miss. From long hours of daylight to local events, there’s plenty to do and see this summer. 

Summer Solstice: The Simmer Dim Feeling

One of the most magical things about summer in Orkney is the feeling of endless daylight. Summer solstice occurs around the 21st June, which is the longest day of the year. 

Around this time, you’ll notice that it doesn’t get fully dark on the islands. Which is why Northern Lights spotting is almost impossible.

If you’re camping, it makes for an incredible way to experience the views and surround yourself with nature. 

Neolithic sites like the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stennes are popular scenic spots to spend the summer solstice and experience the simmer dim – the unique light in the sky that occurs this time of year, where the sun just dips beneath the horizon without setting fully. 

Festivals and Local Events

Visiting Orkney in summer is your chance to experience a unique range of local cultural events. From arts festivals to agriculture, there’s something for everyone. 

• St Magnus Festival: The St Magnus Internal Festival is an arts festival which takes place from 19th–28th June 2026. You can expect music, literature, theatre, and community events in a variety of venues and locations across Orkney. 
• Stromness Shopping Week: A fun week of events to celebrate all things Stromness, you can expect anything from the daft raft race, parades and fun runs to the donut eating competition. A must for anyone visiting Orkney between 22nd–25th July.
• North Ronaldsay Sheep Festival: If you’re looking for something off the beaten track, head to Orkney’s most northerly Isle between July and August and take part in the annual dyke building programme to help maintain the right conditions for this extraordinary breed of sheep. In return, you’ll enjoy some good old island hospitality. 
• Agricultural shows: The agricultural shows are the high point in the year to celebrate local farming. All manner of farm animals will be on display, and each show is bursting with stalls from local businesses, and lots of fun and games to take part in. Starting at the beginning of August, it ends with the Orkney County Show in Kirkwall on the 8th August 2026. 

Outdoor activities 

This is the time of year to get out and about and enjoy the outdoors. There’s no shortage of things to do and places to go – even if you just want to walk on the beach! 

• Diving and snorkelling: If you fancy getting in the water, Kraken Diving offers brilliant days out and the chance to dive or snorkel amongst the world-famous blockships at the Churchill Barriers. And then a snack and a brew at our cafe of course!
• Boat trips: Take a guided boat tour to see Orkney’s various islands from the water, and see the history and wildlife connected to each place.
• Walks: From the Mull Head in Deerness, to the Brough of Birsay, there are countless stunning locations and coastal walks  for you to enjoy. A trip to Hoy to walk through the hills or to the Old Man of Hoy is a must. We have a list of our favourite walks here.
• Wild swimming: There’s nothing more exhilarating than a swim in the sea, especially on a summer’s day. There’s no shortage of locations for sea swimming in Orkney, but make sure you stay safe and go with a group if you can. Inganess and Scapa beach are popular, central locations for a dip.

Island hopping 

One of the best things to do in Orkney during the summer is ‘island hopping’ – visiting as many of the smaller isles as you can. There are 13 islands you can reach from the mainland from Westray to Hoy, each one rich with wildlife, sights and history. 

Getting around

Planning and booking ahead is essential, especially if you’re travelling with a vehicle. Check the Orkney Ferries timetable, or you can book short flights with Loganair if you want to go on foot. 

Top attractions

While there’s something to see on each island, here’s a few must-see places if you’re stuck for ideas: 

• The Old Man of Hoy, Hoy: This iconic sea stack is the backdrop of countless photos, and while you’re there you can visit the stunning Rackwick Bay.
• Castle O’Burrian, Westray: Famous for puffin-sighting, this is a popular spot for getting to see these colourful birds up close. Plus, you’ll be spoiled for beautiful sea views!
• Midhowe Broch and Cairn, Rousay: One for the archaeology fans, this is Orkney’s best preserved broch and the largest burial cairn. It’s a short crossing to Rousay, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the island too.
• Tresness Beach and Cata Sand, Sanday: This seemingly endless beach is home to massive sand dunes, and splits into a dual bay. It’s truly breathtaking and a must for beach lovers. 

Enjoy summer in Orkney

This feels like a short summary of all the possibilities for visiting Orkney in summer, but once you arrive, you’ll find your own adventure because for me, that’s what summer is all about.

Under near-constant daylight, the possibilities are endless and it’s a time to soak up all the wonderful nature we’re so lucky to have right on our doorstep. 

Enjoy your trip, and I hope to see you soon!