What to do in Deerness

Activities, attractions and tours

Deerness
Photo "Deerness" by Mark Crook (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Mark Crook (CC BY-SA)
Photo "Deerness" by Colin Smith (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Colin Smith (CC BY-SA)
Photo "Deerness" by Phillyacct (CC BY) / Cropped from original
Photo by Phillyacct (CC BY)
Photo "Deerness" by Ian Balcombe (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Ian Balcombe (CC BY-SA)

Places to Visit in Deerness

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Deerness, Scotland while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Deerness attractions from NZ$229, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Deerness tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 12 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Deerness. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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Top places to visit

1. Standing Stones of Stenness

Discover ancient history at the Standing Stones of Stenness. This collection of monoliths forms one of the oldest henge sites in the British Isles and is an ideal starting point to explore the prehistoric legacy of the Orkney Islands. The stunning landscape and diverse wildlife provide additional appeal to this iconic Orcadian landmark.
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Standing Stones of Stenness which includes tranquil scenes, a monument and heritage elements

2. Ring of Brogdar

The Ring of Brodgar is both an enigmatic historical attraction and an area of spectacular natural beauty. Here, 27 standing stones form a perfect circle with a diameter of about 340 feet (104 meters). Examine the UNESCO-listed site, which sits amid the rolling hills and tranquil lochs of the Orkney Mainland.
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Ring of Brogdar featuring a monument and heritage elements as well as a small group of people

3. St. Magnus Cathedral

St. Magnus Cathedral is among Orkney’s most recognizable and striking landmarks. Known as the “Light in the North,” this medieval cathedral dominates the skyline of Kirkwall. Inside are memorials to a number of prominent Orcadians. Take a guided tour of the building’s upper levels for wonderful views over the cathedral itself and the surrounding landscape.
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St. Magnus Cathedral featuring heritage elements, a cemetery and a church or cathedral

4. Earl's Palace

With only a two-story section left standing, the Earl’s Palace lies mostly in ruins today, but it was once considered to be one of Scotland’s most remarkable Renaissance buildings. Discover the remnants of the palace’s beautiful entrance decorations and step inside to see its spectacular fireplace.
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Earl\'s Palace showing building ruins, heritage elements and a castle

5. Maes Howe

Maes Howe is among Europe’s finest Neolithic burial chambers. Built around 3,000 B.C., this mysterious structure features remarkably sophisticated stonework. Take a tour of the tomb’s interior and admire its massive sandstones, as well as the intriguing runic graffiti that was added thousands of years after its construction.
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Maes Howe showing interior views and heritage elements

What to do in Deerness

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Deerness

St. Magnus Cathedral which includes heritage architecture, a cemetery and a church or cathedral

Kirkwall

Photo "Toab" by C Michael Hogan (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by C Michael Hogan (CC BY-SA)

Toab

Frequently asked questions

Is Deerness worth visiting?
Whether you want to enjoy the local charm and cultural highlights or try unique foods and venture into nature, there are many things to do in Deerness.
How do I spend a day in Deerness?
Balfour Castle and Scapa Beach are two good places to kick-start your holiday adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and retail options in Deerness while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Deerness?
Balfour Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in Deerness and deserves a spot on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Deerness?
Three days is plenty for a quick trip to Deerness — you'll hit the main spots and get a good feel for the place. But if you really want to soak it all in, book for at least a week or more to discover the nearby areas too.
Is Deerness a walkable city?
It all depends on what you plan to do and see in Deerness. Several attractions, including Sandi Sand, are accessible on foot. If you feel like a wander through one of Deerness's neighbourhoods, Orkney is 2 kilometres away from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in Deerness with kids?
If you are after tours and attractions for all ages, here are some terrific ideas for what to do in Deerness with kids.

What to do in Deerness for adults?
Highland Park Distillery and Orkney Wine Company are just a couple of the things to do in Deerness. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Deerness?
In Deerness, Mill Sand is a must-see spot for anyone wanting to tour the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's an easy way to explore the best free things to do in Deerness.