How to Plan Your Orkney Islands Day Trip from John O’Groats

Located at the northernmost tip of the Scottish mainland, John O’Groats is a popular tourist destination that offers breathtaking views of the sea and wildlife. But what makes John O’Groats even more exciting is its proximity to the breathtaking Orkney Islands. This World Heritage Island is just a short ferry ride away from John O’Groats and boasts of stunning coastlines, mystical stone circles, and ancient Viking settlements. If you are planning to visit John O’Groats, make sure to schedule a day trip to the Orkney Islands, and we can help you plan your itinerary.

Highlights of the Orkney Islands Day Trip

The day trip to the Orkney Islands from John O’Groats offers a full day of exploration of the magnificent island. Here are some of the highlights of the trip:

• Enjoy the scenic 40-minute ferry ride from John O’Groats and spot marine wildlife on the way, including puffins and orcas.
• Upon arriving in Orkney, board a luxury coach and enjoy the commentary from a local guide.
• Visit the Ring of Brodgar, a mystical stone circle, and marvel at the site’s neolithic architecture.
• Explore the ancient Viking settlement at Skara Brae, which is older than the Pyramids and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Discover the magnificent Cathedral of St Magnus and the beautiful little Italian Chapel.
• Stop in Kirkwall, Orkney’s capital city, and discover St Magnus Cathedral, shops, the museum, and the scenic harbor.

How to Book the Tour

If you want to experience the Orkney Islands day trip, you can book it online easily. Visit this link to book the tour.

Tour Inclusions

The Orkney Islands day trip from John O’Groats is an all-inclusive tour that includes:

• Return ferry crossing from John O’Groats.
• Bus tour of the Orkney Islands.
• Entrance fee to Skara Brae, the stone age village.
• Entrance fees to other attractions.
• Food and drinks are not included in the tour package.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re planning a trip to John O’Groats, then make sure that an Orkney Islands day trip is part of your itinerary. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore the neolithic architecture, ancient Viking settlements, and stunning coastlines of Orkney. Remember to bring your camera to capture these once-in-a-lifetime moments. Book the tour today and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

John O Groats: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re looking for a truly authentic Scottish experience, look no further than John O Groats. This small coastal village is the northernmost point on the Scottish mainland and has become a popular tourist destination over the years. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about John O Groats, from its history and geography to the best things to see and do. So let’s dive in!

Geography of John O Groats

John O Groats is located on the northeastern coast of Scotland, about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) northeast of the town of Canisbay. It’s situated on the narrow isthmus that separates the mainland from the island of Orkney, which lies just across the Pentland Firth. The village itself is small, with a population of less than 300 people. Despite its remote location, John O Groats is easily accessible by road and has become a popular tourist destination in recent years.

History of John O Groats

The origin of the name John O Groats is somewhat unclear. One theory is that it’s a corruption of the Dutch name Jan de Groot, a local merchant who traded in the area in the 16th century. Another theory is that it’s a corruption of the name Jean de Grote, a French smuggler who operated in the area around the same time. Regardless of the name’s origin, John O Groats has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area has been inhabited since the Neolithic era, when the first humans arrived in Scotland. In more recent times, John O Groats became an important port for shipping goods to and from Orkney. Today, it’s primarily known as a tourist destination, with a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.

Getting to John O Groats

Despite its remote location, John O Groats is easily accessible by road. If you’re coming from the south, the most common route is to take the A9 north from Inverness (approximately 112 miles or 180 kilometers). This scenic route takes you past some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes, including the Cairngorms National Park. If you’re coming from Orkney, you can take the ferry from the town of Stromness to the nearby village of Burwick. From there, it’s just a short drive to John O Groats. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from the island of South Ronaldsay to John O Groats itself, although this service is less frequent.

Things to See and Do in John O Groats

Despite its small size, John O Groats has plenty of things to see and do. Here are just a few of the top attractions:

1. Take a ferry to Orkney

One of the biggest draws of John O Groats is its proximity to the Orkney Islands. From the village, you can take a ferry across the Pentland Firth to one of the many islands that make up the archipelago. Once there, you can explore everything from ancient archaeological sites to charming coastal villages.

2. Visit the John O Groats signpost

Perhaps the most iconic landmark in John O Groats is the famous signpost that marks the village’s northernmost point. Visitors can take a photo with the sign and even have their distance from home calculated and listed on the sign.

3. Walk the John O Groats Trail

For those looking for an outdoor adventure, the John O Groats Trail is a must-visit. This walking trail stretches for nearly 147 miles (237 kilometers) from Inverness to John O Groats and offers spectacular views of the Scottish countryside.

4. Visit Duncansby Head

Located just a short drive from John O Groats, Duncansby Head is a dramatic coastal headland that offers incredible views of the North Sea. Visitors can take a walk to the nearby Duncansby Stacks, a series of towering sea stacks that are a sight to behold.

5. Take a wildlife tour

John O Groats is home to a wide range of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and even whales in the surrounding waters. Visitors can take a wildlife tour to see these animals up close and learn more about their natural habitats.

Where to Stay in John O Groats

Despite its small size, John O Groats has a variety of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from hotels and guesthouses to self-catering cottages and campsites. Here are a few of the top choices:

The Inn at John O Groats

Located right in the heart of the village, the Inn at John O Groats is a charming hotel with 22 rooms and stunning views of the coastline. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar, as well as a range of outdoor activities like cycling and kayaking.

Journey’s End

For a more intimate experience, Journey’s End is a bed and breakfast with just two rooms. The property is located in a converted lighthouse on the coast and offers breathtaking views of the North Sea.

John O Groats Caravan Park

For those looking for a more affordable option, the John O Groats Caravan Park offers pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes. The park also has a range of facilities, including a laundry room and children’s playground.

Book Your Tour Now

John O Groats may be small, but it’s packed with history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to explore the Orkney Islands, hike the John O Groats Trail, or simply soak up the stunning coastal views, this village is a must-visit for any traveler to Scotland. So book your trip today and get ready to discover one of Scotland’s hidden gems.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in John O’ Groats

Located in the northernmost part of mainland Scotland, John O’ Groats is a popular tourist destination for visitors around the world. This picturesque and remote village offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and rich history. Here is a guide to help you make the most of your visit to John O’ Groats.

Getting There

The easiest way to get to John O’ Groats is by car, but you can also reach the village by bus or train. The nearest railway station is in Wick, which is 17 miles away from John O’ Groats.

Things to Do in John O’ Groats

1. Take a Wildlife Tour

John O’ Groats is home to a wide variety of wildlife including seals, dolphins, whales, and bird colonies. Book a wildlife tour to see these animals up close and learn about their natural habitats from knowledgeable guides. Some of the most popular wildlife tours in the area are Puffin Express, Caithness Seacoast, and North Coast Explorer.

2. Visit the Duncansby Head Lighthouse

Located just a few miles from John O’ Groats, the Duncansby Head Lighthouse is an iconic landmark that provides breathtaking coastal views. Take a leisurely walk along the cliff tops and enjoy the stunning scenery. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a few puffins nesting in the cliffs.

3. Explore the Castle of Mey

The Castle of Mey is a former royal residence located in the village of Mey, just a short drive from John O’ Groats. Built in the 16th century, the castle has been beautifully restored and is now open to the public. Explore the castle’s stunning gardens, view the historic artifacts and furniture, and learn about the royal history of the location.

4. Go on a Ferry Ride to Orkney

Orkney is a group of islands located just off the coast of John O’ Groats, and is home to some of the best-preserved Neolithic sites in Europe. Take a ferry ride from John O’ Groats to Orkney and visit some of the famous sites such as the Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae, and the Maeshowe tomb.

5. Visit the Whaligoe Steps

Located about 20 miles from John O’ Groats is the Whaligoe Steps, a fascinating feat of engineering. These steep stone steps are carved into the cliff face and lead down to a small harbour where fishing boats were once kept. Take a walk down the steps and experience the unique and picturesque location.

Where to Eat and Drink in John O’ Groats

1. Seaview Hotel and Restaurant

Located in the heart of John O’ Groats, the Seaview Hotel and Restaurant offers delicious food and stunning sea views. The restaurant provides a selection of traditional Scottish dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

2. Stacks Coffee House

Stacks Coffee House is a cozy and inviting spot serving homemade soups, sandwiches, and cakes. It’s an ideal place for a quick bite or a relaxing break during a busy day of exploring.

3. Harbour Guesthouse and Restaurant

Located just a few steps away from the John O’ Groats harbour, this restaurant offers a great selection of seafood dishes. The menu focuses on fresh local ingredients such as crab, lobster, and salmon.

Where to Stay in John O’ Groats

1. Seaview Hotel and Restaurant

The Seaview Hotel and Restaurant offers comfortable and cozy rooms with sea views. The hotel is located in a central location, making it an easy base to explore the surrounding areas.

2. John O’ Groats Caravan and Camping Site

Located just a short walk from the village centre, this camping site offers caravan and tent pitches with stunning views of the Pentland Firth. The site includes a range of facilities, such as dining areas, showers, and electricity points.

3. Natural Retreats

For a more luxurious option, the Natural Retreats holiday lodges offer comfortable and modern accommodation with stunning views. The lodges are equipped with a range of facilities such as fully equipped kitchens, private balconies, and hot tubs.

Book Your Tour Now

John O’ Groats is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a range of activities for tourists of all ages. From exploring ancient Neolithic sites to going on wildlife tours, there is no shortage of things to do in this remote Scottish village. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, a visit to John O’ Groats is sure to be a memorable experience.