The Ultimate Guide to Walking and Hiking in Orkney: Top Trails and Routes

Lace up your boots and prepare to be captivated! Orkney offers a walking and hiking experience unlike any other, where each step can traverse thousands of years of history amidst breathtaking natural beauty. From dramatic cliff-top paths pounded by the Atlantic to serene lochside strolls and moorland treks leading to ancient monuments, the archipelago boasts routes for every ability. Whether you seek challenging climbs, wildlife encounters, or peaceful walks through history, this guide details Orkney's top trails and essential tips for exploring on foot.

Iconic Coastal Walks

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Orkney's extensive coastline provides some of its most memorable walking opportunities.

1. Old Man of Hoy Coastal Circuit (Hoy)

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• Distance: ~10 miles / 16 km return
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• Time: 4-5 hours
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• Difficulty: Strenuous
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• Start Point: Rackwick Bay car park
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• Highlights: This classic Orkney walk leads to the base of the Old Man of Hoy, a spectacular 137m sea stack. The route follows dramatic cliff edges (keep well back!) offering incredible views and chances to spot seabirds like Puffins and Great Skuas (Bonxies) in summer. The terrain is rough and exposed, requiring sturdy footwear and weather preparedness. Read more in our guide to Hoy.
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2. Yesnaby Cliffs Walk (Mainland)

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• Distance: ~4.5 miles / 7.5 km linear (can be shortened)
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• Time: 2-3 hours
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• Difficulty: Moderate
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• Start Point: Yesnaby Castle car park
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• Highlights: Experience the raw power of the Atlantic along this stunning stretch of coastline. Marvel at dramatic sea stacks like Yesnaby Castle, blowholes, and geos (narrow sea inlets). The path passes WWII coastal battery remains and offers excellent opportunities for storm watching (from a safe distance!) in winter.
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3. Mull Head Nature Reserve Circular (Deerness, Mainland)

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• Distance: ~4 miles / 6.5 km
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• Time: 1.5-2 hours
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• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
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• Start Point: Mull Head car park
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• Highlights: This circular walk explores the Mull Head peninsula, featuring the dramatic collapsed sea cave known as The Gloup, the Brough of Deerness (site of a Norse settlement accessible via a narrow path), seabird colonies, and WWI/WWII remnants. Well-maintained paths make it accessible for most abilities.
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4. RSPB Marwick Head Circular (Mainland)

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• Distance: ~3 miles / 4.5 km
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• Time: 1-1.5 hours
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• Difficulty: Easy
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• Start Point: Marwick Bay car park
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• Highlights: A relatively easy walk around one of Orkney's most important seabird reserves. In summer, the cliffs are packed with Guillemots, Razorbills, Kittiwakes, and Puffins. The walk also leads to the Kitchener Memorial, offering panoramic views. Learn more about Orkney birdwatching.
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Hillwalking & Moorland Treks

5. Ward Hill Climb (Hoy)

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• Distance: ~8 miles / 13 km return
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• Time: 4-6 hours
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• Difficulty: Challenging
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• Start Point: Dwarfie Stane car park
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• Highlights: Summit Orkney's highest peak (481m) for unbeatable panoramic views across the islands and Pentland Firth on clear days. The route is steep and can be boggy, requiring good fitness and navigation skills, especially if mist descends. You'll pass the unique Dwarfie Stane tomb near the start.
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6. RSPB Reserve Walks (Various Locations)

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Many RSPB reserves offer waymarked trails through diverse habitats:

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• The Loons & Loch of Banks (Mainland): Easy, flat paths around wetlands, excellent for waders and wildfowl, with accessible hides.
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• Cottascarth & Rendall Moss (Mainland): Moorland trails offering good chances to see Hen Harriers and Short-eared Owls.
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• Trumland (Rousay): Hillside walks with potential Hen Harrier sightings.
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Pilgrimage & Long-Distance Routes

7. St Magnus Way

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• Distance: 58 miles / 93 km total (can be walked in sections)
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• Time: 4-6 days (full route)
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• Difficulty: Moderate
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• Highlights: This modern pilgrimage route follows the story of St Magnus, Orkney's patron saint. It traverses diverse landscapes, linking historical sites like the Earl's Bu in Orphir, St Magnus Church on Egilsay, and St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall. Sections like Birsay to Dounby offer excellent day walks.
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Safety and Practical Tips

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• Check the Weather: Orkney weather changes rapidly. Always check the forecast before setting out and be prepared for wind, rain, and sun, even on the same day. Our Orkney weather guide has more info.
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• Essential Gear: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support. Carry waterproof and windproof outer layers, warm layers (hat, gloves), map, compass/GPS, fully charged phone, water, and snacks. See our packing list.
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• Coastal Safety: Keep well back from cliff edges, especially in windy conditions or when the ground is wet. Be aware of potential erosion.
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• Tides: Check tide times if your route involves crossing beaches or causeways (e.g., Brough of Birsay).
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• Navigation: While some paths are well-marked, many moorland and coastal routes are not. Be confident using a map and compass or GPS device. Inform someone of your route and expected return time.
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• Respect the Land: Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Keep dogs under control (on leads near livestock), close gates, and take all litter home. Avoid disturbing wildlife, especially during breeding seasons.
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Resources for Walkers

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• Orkney Countryside Ranger Service: Offers guided walks and advice during summer months. Contact via Orkney Islands Council.
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• Walk Orkney Festival: Annual festival (usually September) offering a programme of guided walks across the islands. Check the Orkney Library & Archive website for details.
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• Walkhighlands Website: Provides detailed route descriptions and maps for many Orkney walks.
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• OS Maps: Landranger maps 6 & 7 cover Orkney.
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Watch: Orkney's Coastal Trails

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Get a taste of Orkney's stunning coastal walking with this video from Wilderness Scotland:

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Conclusion: Step into Orkney's Landscape

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Walking is undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience Orkney's unique blend of nature and history. Whether you choose a challenging hike up Ward Hill, a dramatic cliff walk to the Old Man of Hoy, or a gentle stroll along the St Magnus Way, you'll be rewarded with unforgettable views and a deep connection to these ancient islands. Remember to plan ahead, check the weather, wear appropriate gear, and respect the environment.

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Ready to hit the trails? Find the perfect Orkney accommodation to base your walking holiday, from coastal cottages to town-centre apartments, on Orkney Stays.