A shoreline walk (15-20 minutes) passed the newly built marina takes you into Kirkwall, which is an ideal place to explore by foot.

Within Kirkwall there is plenty to see – if you are interested in history there is the famous St Magnus Cathedral (1137) and ruins of the Bishops and Earls Palaces (now owned by Historic Scotland).  The free Orkney Museum has fascinating displays of Orkney through the ages including Neolithic times and during the wars. 

If shopping is more your passion, then you will be delighted with the unique shops in Kirkwall, especially the beautiful jewellery, knitwear, local crafts and original art works.  There are also shops such as the deli selling local produce of cheese, fish, meat, ice cream. The Highland  Park Distillery is situated on the fringe of Kirkwall, where you can enjoy a tour and wee dram!

If you enjoy eating out, then a gentle stroll along the water edge into Kirkwall will find you will plenty of places to eat and drink.  In Kirkwall there is also a bowling alley, nightclub, Orkney’s cinema, and leisure centre.  Kirkwall is also home to the swimming pool golf course and newly opened skate park.

There is plenty to see further a field, the nearby Kirkwall Harbour and Kirkwall Airport offers a gateway to other islands.  You could walk from Craigiefield to catch the Shapinsay ferry, to explore Balfour Castle, or Westray – known as the Queen O’ the Isles – which has magnificent scenery including the sea cliffs at Noup Head and the Noltand Castle.

Craigiefield apartments are open all year round, and we look forward to welcoming you to Orkney.