Every year, Orkney and Shetland draw more and more visitors to their shores. There are many reasons why people travel north. Some are attracted by the world class music, crafts, history and archaeology, and some simply want to experience the peace, quiet and open spaces that the islands have in abundance.


There are regular sailings to the island. NorthLink ferries operates spacious and luxurious ferries from mainland Scotland to both Orkney and Shetland.

Thames Travel International can offer you a wide range of accommodation, from simple B&B to 4-star rated hotels. But we can also put together a tailor made package for you, depending on your special interests.

Top 10 Things to see and do in ORKNEY		Top 10 Things to seen and do in SHETLAND
1.Skara Brae One of the best preserved Stone age villages in Western Europe		1.Jarishof Provides an insight into the way of life from the late Bronze Age, through to the Middle ages
2.Maeshove Is an impressive chambered tomb said to be the finest Neolithic building in Europe		2.Old Scatness Said to be the finest Neolithic building in Europe, is a fine chambered tomb
3.The Old Man of Hoy A memorable feature of the ferry crossing		3. Mousa Broch The most spectacularly preserved Iron Age Broch in the world, standing 13 metres high
4.Ring of Brodgar A magnificent circle of upright standing stones		4. St. Ninians Isle Famous for it’s treasure and beautiful sand tombolo
5.St. Magnus Cathedral A splendid red sandstone landmark towering over Kirkwall		5.Puffin / Bird Watching at Sumburgh Head The star attraction, during the short breeding season, is the nestling puffin
6.Italian Chapel Beautifully created from Nissen huts by Italian prisoners of war		6.Keen of Hammar Nature Reserve Lunar-like landscape supporting rare varieties of alpine plant including the endemic Edmonston’s Chickweed
7.Wildlife watching From seals and otters to birds and wildflowers, Orkney has it all in abundance		7.Boat trip to Noss Nature Reserve The 180 metre high sea cliff reverberates with the sound of thousands of sea birds
8.Diving trip Find out what lies beneath Orkney’s peaceful azure waters		8.Croft House Museum A typical thatched croft house of the 19th century restored with traditional materials
9.Visit the islands So many to choose from, all different, all tranquil and beautiful		9.Shetland Museum The new Shetland Museum and Archives is due to open in spring 2007
10. Craft Trail See jewellery being made and artists and crafts people at work		10,Hermaness Nature Reserve Home to more than 100.000 breeding birds