Nigel's Photo Blog

Introduction This afternoon, I am providing information on Kirkwall, capital of Orkney . Latter is a group of islands which are situated to the North of the Scottish mainland.  Kirkwall Harbour. Summary facts and information on Kirkwall Reflecting Orkney’s Scandinavian heritage, the name Kirkwall is probably derived from the Old Norse  Kirkju Vagr  meaning ‘Church Bay’. Orkney was ceded to Scotland from Norway as part of a royal marriage settlement on 20 February 1472, Islanders are very conscious of their Scandinavian heritage, which is reflected in local place names and dialect. Population about 9000. Home to a vibrant marine industry which includes fishing, military, ferries and visiting cruise ships. An increasingly popular destination for cruise ships with about eighty such vessels visiting each year bringing a total of some 80, 000 visitors. Home to the impressive, St Magnus Cathedral which has its origins in the 12th century. St Magnus...

Today's press carries a report that the high street in Kirkwall, Orkney has been voted Scotland's most beautiful high street, just beating it's northern neighbour, Lerwick, Shetland. As will be evident from the above image the street is very narrow notwithstanding which it is possible to drive a car along the route. Quaint Old House St Magnus Cathedral