Kirkwall or Baile na h-Eaglais is a large waterfront town within the council area of Orkney, lieutenancy area of Orkney, Scotland, United Kingdom. It lies on the northern part of mainland Orkney and experiences a maritime climate.
Its earliest known history dates back 1046 when it was mentioned in the Orkneyinga Saga (The History of the Earls of Orkney) as a residence of Rognvald Brusason, Earl of Orkney prior to his demise. Kirkwall today is notable for its historical destinations, leisure facilities, arts and the annual Saint Magnus Festival.
Top Attractions within Kirkwall
Bishop's Palace is a historical destination that lies within the town of Kirkwall, Orkney, Scotland, United Kingdom. The palace dates back the 12th century and first served as home to William the Old, the 1st Bishop of Orkney. Its architectural design is of Norwegian style and was once one of the most beautiful structures in Scotland. The palace today is unfortunately on ruins with only the shell of its main building and the round tower named Mossie Toor remaining.
Corrigall Farm Museum is situated along Broad Street, Kirkwall, Orkney, Scotland, United Kingdom. The museum's collections include a number of items that tell about the area's farming traditions as well as the agricultural development that the town experienced throughout time. A visit to the said location does not only enables one to learn about the area's agricultural history and development but also how farming technologies changed the way things work within the town.
Earl's Palace is located near the Kirkwall Castle and Saint Magnus Cathedral at the heart of the town of Kirkwall, Orkney, Scotland, United Kingdom. It was founded sometime in 1607 and served as home for the Earls of Orkney until 1615 upon the execution of Earl Patrick Stewart, 2nd Earl of Orkney. The palace is now on ruins. A visit to the site however, would be a splendid option when already around the area as it still feature its French Renaissance style, turrets and decorations that mirrors its colorful past.
Orkney Museum sits within Tankerness House, Broad Street, Kirkwall, Orkney, United Kingdom. The venue homes wide range of collections that tell about the islands' social, industrial and natural history. Some items present on its several exhibitions include archaeological findings, farming equipments, fishing tools and photographs.
Orkney Wireless Museum is located at Kiln Corner, Kirkwall, Orkney, Scotland, United Kingdom. The venue is home to an impressive collection of both domestic and military equipments. An interesting fact about this museum is that it is run on a voluntary basis. The venue displays great photographic archive that proves the importance of Kirkwall during the World War II.
Saint Magnus Cathedral is an 11th century building in proximity with the historical palaces the Earl's Palace and the Bishop's Palace in Kirkwall, Orkney, Scotland, United Kingdom. It was named after Saint Magnus, Earl Magnus Eriendsson of Orkney, popularly dubbed as Magnus the Martyr. The building's architectural design is of Romanesque and Norman. The cathedral is famous for its amazing architectural style, Cathedral dungeon, cemetery, interior design and historical contributions.
Tankerness House Museum is home to one of the best-preserved town houses in Scotland that dates back the 16th century. Besides the said historical landmark, visitors will also be able to admire its prehistoric, Pictish and Viking collections.
