Birsay Earl’s Palace

Beautiful little island with stunning views all around, we were very privileged to see quite a few puffins on a perfect day. Very high cliffs with no fencing so kids need to be kept a very close eye on. Possibly my favourite day on Orkney, although any day on Orkney is special.

If you’re exploring Orkney with the family, Earl’s Palace in Birsay is a fun and fascinating stop — especially if your kids enjoy castles, knights, or stories about kings and power.There is lots of space for kids to run around — but supervision is important as some parts have uneven ground. The admission is free. Basic facilities on-site; no large visitor centre. Nearest toilets are in Birsay village or community centre nearby. Windbreakers and wellies recommended if the Orkney weather isn’t playing nice.😊

A large set of ruins set in a very sparse area of Orkney that has an impressive anount of history behind its walls , it was constucted during the 16th century by Robert Stewart 1st Earl of Orkney who was an illegitimate son of King james V, after Roberts death in 1593 the palace was only used occaisionally by later earls and was not occupied after the mid 17th century when it began to deteriorate rapidly into the ruins we see today

Fascinating ruin, well preserved given the elements. Make sure you visit the nearby shop - great selection of pies....

This must have been a very palatial palace given its location. Quite a substantial ruin all the same well worth a visit if you're in the area.

Pretty much anywhere else in the world and this would be a really cool ruin worth a decent chunk of your time. But on Orkney, there is so much to see and do that this should only act as a ten minute detour. Nice information boards telling an interesting story, and parking only a short walk away (although it was very busy when we visited).

Really interesting ruins with brilliantly sign posted areas and info. Find a parking spot up by the public toilets, 30second walk away. Lovely little village shop there too!

Lovely little place, free entry