Visit Orkney
Orkney: seventy islands, thoursands of history
Orkney is an island group in the north of Scotland. The island group consists of approximately seventy islands of which twenty are inhabited. The majority of the population of 21,000 people live on the island of Mainland, the largest island of Orkney. Around 9,000 people live in the capital Kirkwell.
The island group is loved and sorrounded by beautiful nature. A popular holiday destination to get a breath of fresh air, unwind and enjoy nature and delicious food.
Explore the beautiful Orkey Islands
Combine a stay on the Orkney Islands with a trip across Scotland and take the opportunity to see the Shetland Islands, located in the north of Orkney. From Newcaslte you can drive your own car to Aberdeen or to Scrabster. These are the two departure points of the Orkney ferries to Mainland. Ferries to Aberdeen depart 3-4 times a week, while ferries to Scrabster depart 2-3 times a day. From Newcastle it is approximately a 7.5-hour drive to Scrabster. This is a long journey so you can also choose to visit Glasgow or Edinburgh and spend a few days.
Unwind completely in nature
Of the seventy islands that make up the island group, many are uninhabited and there you will find untouched nature and wildlife. Thanks to the white beaches and turquoise waters of Orkney, it will feel like being on a tropical island. You can walk along the beautiful beaches and cliffs. You can also spot whales and dolphins on the banks of Orkney.
Orkney is also one of the best places in the UK to see the Northern Lights in autumn and winter. It requires a clear cold night without clouds and there should not be too much light pollution, which is minimal on the Orkney Islands and therefore you can fully enjoy this natural wonder.
Our Routes to the UK
Amsterdam-Newcastle Ferry Crossings
Discover Scotland and Northern England with DFDS! Secure your 15% early bird discount now on your 2026 holiday journey with your own car.
15%
off 2026 sailings
Dunkirk-Dover Ferry Crossings
Sail across the English Channel with ease on a short crossing between Dunkirk and Dover.
From
€103
per car + up to 4 people, one way*
Calais-Dover Ferry Crossings
Our Calais to Dover route is the shortest crossing we provide and is the perfect way to cross the Channel to the UK.
From
€103
per car + up to 4 people, one way*
Dieppe-Newhaven Ferry Crossings
Crossing the Channel from Dieppe to Newhaven provides you with the ideal gateway to the UK.
From
€118
per car + 2 people, one way*
Travel Guides
Edinburgh
With DFDS ferries to Newcastle, it couldn’t be easier to travel Scotland for a fantastic holiday, with Edinburgh just a couple of hours’ drive from the port.
Glasgow
Situated on the River Clyde, near to Scotland’s west coast, Glasgow is the largest city in the country and holds many charms for holidaymakers looking for a city break.
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond is a true treat for lovers of the outdoors, with an incredible variety of geology, flora and wildlife to see.
Cairngorms
The Cairngorms National Park, in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, was voted one of the top 20 places to visit in the world.
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