The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Kirkwall And St Ola

There are over 35 family-friendly hiking trails around Kirkwall and St Ola, with 26 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for all ages and abilities. These routes offer a wonderful way to explore the diverse landscapes of the Orkney Islands.

Family hikes in Kirkwall and St Ola offer a diverse range of landscapes. You can expect to walk along varied coastlines, from dramatic cliffs to gentler shores with stunning sea views. Inland, trails often traverse open moorlands alive with heather, gentle hills, and fertile farmlands. The The Crantit Trail – Scapa Beach loop, for example, leads through the countryside to a tranquil beach.

Yes, many of the family-friendly trails are easy and suitable for younger children. The The Crantit Trail – Scapa Beach loop is an easy, surfaced path of about 3.3 miles (5.4 km) that takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes, making it ideal for families. While specific pushchair accessibility varies, many of the easier, surfaced paths are generally suitable.

Kirkwall and St Ola are rich in history and natural beauty. You can explore significant landmarks like the St Magnus Cathedral and the Earl's Palace, Kirkwall on routes such as the St Magnus Cathedral – Earl's Palace, Kirkwall loop. Further afield, you might encounter ancient sites like the Standing Stones of Stenness or the Ring of Brodgar, which are part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Absolutely! For panoramic views across Kirkwall and the surrounding islands, consider the Wideford Hill Summit Viewpoint loop. This moderate route also allows you to visit the Wideford Hill Cairn, a Neolithic communal burial site, on the descent, combining stunning vistas with historical exploration.

Many of the family-friendly routes in Kirkwall and St Ola are designed as loops, offering convenient circular walks. This means you'll typically start and end at the same point, making logistics easier for families. Examples include the The Crantit Trail – Kirkwall Town Centre loop and the Kirkwall Town Centre – Scapa Beach loop.

While many trails in Orkney are dog-friendly, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially when walking through farmlands where livestock may be present, or near wildlife habitats. Please be mindful of local signage and clean up after your pet to ensure everyone can enjoy the outdoors.

Given Orkney's changeable weather, it's wise to pack layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy footwear for everyone. Snacks, water, sun protection (even on cloudy days), and a first-aid kit are also essential. Binoculars can enhance wildlife spotting, and a camera will capture the beautiful scenery.

Many trailheads, especially those starting near Kirkwall, offer parking facilities. For routes beginning in the town centre, public transport options may also be available. It's advisable to check specific route details for parking information and local bus schedules if you plan to use public transport.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.24 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, the blend of historical sites with natural beauty, and the accessibility of trails for families. The peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for wildlife spotting are also frequently highlighted.

The warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for family hiking, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, Orkney's weather can be unpredictable, so being prepared for all conditions is always recommended. Winter walks can also be beautiful, especially around the Peedie Sea for birdwatching.