Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces

had a quick tour round both palaces after buying tickets from the knowledgable guide in his wee box,not much info boards in place but plenty of places to take great pics most of which didnt come out for me because tech issues so heres a few taken from the top of St Magnus

Interesting place if relatively minimally interpreted, so quite a quick experience. Good view from top of bishop's palce in cathedral

Getting tickets was easy and the people selling the tickets care about the buildings. They had stories to tell. The restoration is in progress but the ruins that remain are very impressive and caused us to talk about how life might have been.

Amazing historic place, not too many turists around and you can take amazing photos.

We had a good time visiting the palaces which span across a street, with the Bishop’s on one side of the road, and the Earl’s on the other. You buy your tickets from the little hut on the Earl’s side, further away from the cathedral. Only a 5 minute walk from the center and town, this is a fun spot to walk around, and you can see a variety of rooms and learn how they were used centuries ago.

Located by the St. Magnus Cathedral, this large but in ruins castle, is waiting for you to explore! You explore most areas of the castle, including climbing the winding steps of the partially standing tower. Parking is a bit limited on the road. There is an admission fee. Bathrooms are a couple of blocks down the street in City Hall.

This was our first historical stop on Orkney. We were able to pick up or Discovery Pass here. The person that was working at the ticket office was exceptionally helpful and gave us the full run down on his recommendations for the short two days that we would be on Orkney. The castles themselves were interesting because we were able to explore all of it - no ropes or “no-go” zones - the entire place is open for exploration. We spent about an hour here. Very much recommend a visit!

The buildings are very interesting, but it was closed when i got there. You can view them from outside but i would have enjoyed to go inside and have a look around. Be aware of the season and the open times, and phone ahead.