This Orkney private tour takes you deep into the heart of Ancient Orkney. Discover Neolithic Skara Brae, stand before the towering Stones of Stenness, and encounter the mythical Ring of Brodgar. Perfect for independent travellers and cruise ship visitors arriving at Kirkwall, this Ancient Wonders Tour delivers an authentic insider perspective. Your private guide, Graham, brings the island's heritage to life through his unique background as a local history teacher and a traditional drystone wall builder.
Features
- Guided tour of Ring of Brodgar: UNESCO World Heritage site
- Guided tour of Standing Stones of Stenness: UNESCO World Heritage site
- Drive past Ness of Brodgar, location of a huge complex of neolithic buildings
- Guided tour of Skara Brae: UNESCO World Heritage site
- Guided tour of Broch of Gurness, superb Iron Age site
- Mystery detour to ancient cairn(s),
- Gain a unique insight into ancient stone craft from a practising drystone builder,
- Spectacular coastal scenery
What to expect
Setting off from your accommodation or the cruise pier, we will pass through Orkney’s fertile fields bordered by the classic drystone walls that form an enduring part of our landscape. Questions about these walls are like music to my ears. As a drystone dyke builder in my spare time, I love showing guests how my building skills match the exact techniques used by our ancient ancestors. I use this craft to help you truly understand the connection between people, the past, and the land.
We will journey into the stunning UNESCO ceremonial landscape, with the Ness of Brodgar at its heart. You will stand amongst the towering stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, capturing why the ancient people chose this special place. Our itinerary also includes the 5,000-year-old stone village of Skara Brae and the impressive Iron Age Broch of Gurness.
With a lifelong knowledge of ancient Orkney and a background as a history teacher, I specialize in transforming historic sites into unforgettable stories. Join me for a uniquely personal, expert-guided tour of these remarkable sites. I look forward to sharing a perspective that will truly enrich your time in Orkney.
What’s included
- Duration: All day tour; (for cruise liner guests tour duration is typically around 6 hours);
- Group size: Private- up to 7 people- you will have your local guide and the vehicle all to yourself;
- Vehicle: Travel in style in our spacious, comfortable and fully licensed vehicle;
- Pick up/drop off: your accommodation or cruise liner;
- STGA credited: Scottish Tourist Guides Association Approved Guide;
- New for 2026/27: 100% REFUND ( less entry fees already paid for) if your cruise ship cancels due to bad weather.
Why choose Graham:
- A native islander with deep family roots stretching back to at least the 1600s, offering you an authentic connection to our history, culture and heritage.
- Local history teacher and traditional wall builder: I share the deep insights, hidden stories, and hands-on heritage that make your Orkney experience truly unique.
- Discover the local dialect or try my Orkney Quiz!
- Mystery detours to local gems often off the beaten track, schedule permitting.
What our guests say:
We booked the Ancient Wonders tour and, as a history buff, I couldn’t have been more delighted! Graham is very knowledgable and very pleasant and this, together with his professionalism and passion, simply makes for the perfect combination. Also, a big plus is his ability to manage the sheep situation we found ourselves in!
Laura Macchi: Google Review- (Ancient Wonders Tour)
We had one day in Orkney off the cruise ship and wanted to focus on the ancient sites — and Graham delivered a day we'll never forget...If you want Orkney's Neolithic heart explained by someone who lives and breathes it — and a day shaped entirely around your interests — book Graham. Worth every penny.
Nick Parker: Trip Advisor Review
Prices
All prices are for the vehicle and guide and include pick-ups and drop-offs for up to seven passengers.
Special group rates are available
Entry fees, lunches and refreshments are not included in your tour fee.
We use online payment methods and can accept payment from any credit card, Stripe and bank transfer.