EXCELLENT  
  
 Based on 154 reviews 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Becki Ruud 
 
0 days ago
 
 
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+0
Paul is an exceptional tour guide.  I had a blast with him on our two day tour.   He is very educated on all things Orkney.   From houses used in the prohibition to famous jewelers and local artists and distilleries.  And the food scene on the islands.  Himself included.  My suggestion is make sure you leave room in your suitcase for his food products cause you will want to take them with you.  He makes the best jams and chutney and relishes.. ect.  Orkney has so much history from the Neolithic to the world wars and Paul knows all about it and he shares his knowledge so well.   I would highly recommend scheduling your tour with him.  He is personable and friendly and so connected to the people and the history of these islands.  Schedule now.  You will love it!!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Vicki Pentland 
 
21 days ago
 
 
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We had a fantastic tour of the Neolithic sites with Paul, he is such a lovely and fun man and so knowledgeable, he knew everything about all of the sites we saw. We even asked him to add in another site we were interested in, no problems. We had a delicious lunch at his home next to the ocean, which we loved. Got some tasty jam and chutney too. As Australians, we were happy that he didn't have a strong accent and we could understand everything he said. All 4 of us said it was the best part of our trip to Scotland! Thank you very much Paul.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 lroark55 
 
22 days ago
 
 
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+9
Our family had a fantastic time with Paul, owner of JP Orkney Tours in June, 2026!  I was very interested in getting some bird photography in, and they did not disappoint. We loved the very personal lunch and whiskey tasting he provided us, along with he and his wife’s yummy local products they have at their honesty box. Their adorable dog also gave us the dog fix we didn’t know we needed!  Paul came through on all our requests with a few suggestions of his own, and kept us entertained and engaged the whole day. Can’t say enough good things. He made Orkney the favorite part of our trip!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Perella Bridgland 
 
32 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I really enjoyed the two days I spent with Paul.  He organised two fascinating days and I came away knowing so much more about Orkney than I would have done had I tried to explore it on my own. He was also very good at tailoring the days to fit in with what we needed - and makes a mean lunch too!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Rich Sheinfeld 
 
35 days ago
 
 
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Terrific experience and guide.  Lots of fun. Knowledgeable, engaging guide, presented context on sites in great way and paced journeys in way that worked really well.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Jean Maz 
 
46 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
+3
My husband and I spent a wonderful day with Paul on a private tour.  He curated the perfect itinerary based on my husband's interest in the Neolithic sites and my passion for coastal views.  I highly recommend the lunch he provides. Paul exudes both knowledge about and passion for his beloved Orkney.  And he helped us get some pictures and videos that we love. Thank you for a very special day!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Deborah Fields 
 
47 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
A truly delightful and memorable tour day. We saw the all-day tour of Rousay and jumped on the opportunity. The trip exceeded our expectations, from the comfort of the vehicle to the knowledge of the sites, the selection, etc. (Also, mad respect for managing the tiny ferry - backing in! The entire family really enjoyed it (and they are not easy to universally please). The histories of the neolithic and iron age sites, the insights into local Orkney culture, and just the beauty of the land were wonderful to experience.

Getting the tour was a fantastic decision. We would have had trouble navigating the ferry and Rousay itself as smoothly on our own plus Paul knew far more than we would have gotten from any tour book (and certainly from the limited signs at the sites). Paul also took us to unmarked areas for a charming oceanside lunch as well as a few other sites that one wouldn't likely find on any tour guide. The insider insights!

In addition, we got the packed picnic lunch from J&P, which was delicious: sandwiches, fresh veggies (picked that morning), homemade tiffin, and fruit. It was perfect and I'm now fully a fan of Jane's baking.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Shirley Hartmann 
 
58 days ago
 
 
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+4
We booked this tour before we left the states and Paul communicated with us in such a professional manner that I was sure this was the best way to privately tour Orkney. We had our own car but being 4 older adults, it was such a carefree and very educational way to see the ancient sites. We opted in to have a picnic on his lovely property by the sea and that was our cherry on top memory of this tour!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Nanette Goings 
 
59 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
+2
My husband and I were just discussing the highlights of our British Isles cruise. JP Orkney Tours on Orkney was definitely one of them….the ancient stones, ruins by the sea, that archeological dig visit, the Puffins on a cliff and a homemade box lunch in Paul’s greenhouse were amazing!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Brian Ktytor 
 
86 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
+27
The Best Shore Excursion of Our Entire European Cruise

After visiting multiple countries and experiencing nine private guides during our trip, one guide stood above all the others: Paul of JP Orkney Tours.

Our day with Paul wasn’t simply a tour—it was one of the most memorable travel experiences our family has ever had.

From our very first communication months before arriving in Orkney, Paul was extraordinary. Every question was answered promptly and thoughtfully. The planning process was effortless, and it was clear from the beginning that he genuinely cared about creating the perfect day for our family of eight. That level of service continued long after the tour ended.

What happened next exceeded every expectation.

In fact, the experience began before we even met him. When we stepped off our cruise ship in Kirkwall and told the port attendant that we were meeting Paul from JP Orkney Tours, his face lit up. He immediately told us how fortunate we were and said we were about to spend the day with one of the very best guides in Orkney.

By the end of the day, we understood exactly what he meant.

Paul possesses that rare combination of world-class expertise and natural charisma. His knowledge of Orkney’s Neolithic sites, Viking history, wartime heritage, local culture, and geography is astonishing, but what makes him exceptional is how he shares that knowledge. He doesn’t lecture—he engages. Throughout the day he used questions, trivia, storytelling, humor, and interactive challenges to keep every member of our family involved. Members in their twenties to in their seventies alike were completely captivated from beginning to end.

We explored the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness, Skara Brae, St. Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall, dramatic coastal cliffs, stunning beaches off the Brough of Birsay, and countless hidden corners of the island. At every stop, Paul transformed ancient stones and historic sites into living stories. Skara Brae in particular became so much more than an archaeological site—it became a window into the lives of people who lived there 5,000 years ago.

And then there was lunch.

What we expected was a meal.

What we received was one of the most memorable hospitality experiences ever.

Paul welcomed us to his beautiful seaside home, where he and his family have created something truly special. We enjoyed a homemade lunch featuring local Orkney ingredients and family-made specialties, served in a warm and inviting solarium overlooking the sea. Every bite was exceptional. The desserts were among the finest we’ve ever tasted anywhere in the world.

As if that wasn’t enough, lunch concluded with a Scotch tasting overlooking the sea, followed by an impromptu family football match in the yard beside the beach.

How often can you say that a world-class historical, cultural and stunning landscape tour, magnificent homemade lunch, whisky tasting, and family football game all happened in the same day?

Throughout Orkney it became apparent how highly respected Paul is. Everywhere we went, people greeted him warmly. The admiration and affection others have for him spoke volumes about both the man and the business he has built.

The greatest compliment I can give is this:

Paul didn’t make us feel like tourists.

He made us feel like guests.

Guests in his home. Guests on his island. Guests in a place he genuinely loves and is excited to share.

That authenticity cannot be manufactured.

If you’re arriving in Orkney by cruise ship, planning a Scottish holiday, or simply looking for the finest private guide experience available, stop searching and book JP Orkney Tours.

After nine private guides across our European journey, Paul was our family’s unanimous favorite.

The history was fascinating.

The scenery was breathtaking.

The food was unforgettable.

The hospitality was remarkable.

And the memories will last a lifetime.

Five stars simply aren’t enough.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
  EXCELLENT  
  
 Based on 63 reviews 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 Tony 
 
28 days ago
 
 
 Verified 
Brilliant!
Paul is a great tour guide and the nicest guy you’ll ever meet. Highly recommended.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 GoPlaces58176549580 
 
94 days ago
 
 
 Verified 
Wenn Orkney, dann nur mit Paul! Sie werden es nicht bereuen!
Wir (2 Ehepaare) haben vor Kurzem eine Orkney-Tages-Tour mit Paul unternommen und waren von Anfang bis Ende absolut begeistert. Die private Tagestour in seinem komfortablen Mini-Van war ein großartiger Beginn unserer Island- / Schottland-Kombinations-Reise! Bereits die Abholung / Begrüßung zeigte, dass Paul wesentlich mehr ist als „nur „ein Reiseleiter – er passte seine Tour schnell an die Wetterbedingungen an und veränderte sie so, dass dann das Wetter auch immer mitspielte 😉. Aber es war nicht einfach nur eine Tour – es war ein großartiges Erlebnis! Mit fundiertem (historischen) Wissen und voller Charme und Empathie. Paul begeisterte uns vor allem aber auch durch sein fundiertes Wissen - er liebt seine Heimat/ Inselgruppe wirklich und versteht ihre Seele und Geschichte. Die Mittagspause verbrachten wir in auf seinem Privatanwesen und erfuhren auch viel über die lokalen Speisen und die privaten Lebensmittelproduktionen aus seinem „Paradies“.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Lorraine O 
 
95 days ago
 
 
 Verified 
Fantastic
The information shared with us by our very knowledgeable guide paul was outstanding . He taught us so much about the history of orkney with his facts and unique humour . The vehicle was very comfortable and as we made our way to prime locations he shared fascinating facts about the islands .
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Laurie R 
 
100 days ago
 
 
 Verified 
Great
We had to pay for 4 persons. Only 2 of us went. We would have been happy to share. Over 1100 us dollars was outrageous. We also asked to see the Church barriers. And we were dropped off at 3:30 pm. To see the barriers wold have added another 40 min to the tour. We were picked up at 9:30 am. So there was time to see that.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Julie P 
 
100 days ago
 
 
 Verified 
Unforgettable two-day tour
We recently did a two-day tour of Orkney with Paul, and it was absolutely amazing from start to finish. Paul’s knowledge and passion for Orkney really brought our trip to life. Over the two days, he took us to see all of the incredible local Neolithic sites, giving us fascinating historical context that we never would have discovered on our own. We also visited the Churchill Barriers and got to explore some fantastic local artists and sample wonderful regional produce, including a delicious picnic lunch by the sea. Paul was a fantastic guide—attentive, engaging, and incredibly accommodating. If you are planning a trip to Orkney, we cannot recommend JP Orkney Tours highly enough. It was the highlight of our holiday!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Sue and her Crew 
 
106 days ago
 
 
 Verified 
Sue and her Crew
This was our second trip to Orkney hosted by Paul. Four days the first time, five now. Again he was a brilliant guide, an excellent source of local knowledge, history, and places to eat. Paul was highly flexible in meeting our wishes. This time we went to islands beyond the Mainland and its linked islands; did a boat trip on Scapa Flow and visited several craft venues and a dairy. When we went ‘off-piste’, Jane’s packed lunches were delicious. Thanks Paul and Jane for another memorable holiday in Orkney.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Road32192078665 
 
107 days ago
 
 
 Verified 
JP Orkney should be your first choice
Perfect private tour. Paul Is extremely good tour guide, knowledgeable, friendly, flexible. Two of our group have mobility issues and Paul accommodated us well. This Tour is highlight of our trip and exactly what we were looking for.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Will B 
 
170 days ago
 
 
 Verified 
Wonderful Tour Day
Had a lovely tour with Paul in his van. He met us in the morning at our hotel and immediately we were off seeing the sights of Orkney. He’s able to tailor the day to your interests so well that my father and I were talking about the many wind turbines on the island that he was able to show us one up close as a spontaneous addition! We also enjoyed a picnic lunch provided by him and his wife which was amazing showcasing the strength of local produce. I highly recommend booking with Paul, you will not be disappointed.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 KLG1414 
 
396 days ago
 
 
 Verified 
Amazing! A day full of making great memories!
If you're heading to Orkney and crave an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, look no further than JP Orkney Tours. From the moment our tour began, Paul was more than just a guide—he was a storyteller, weaving centuries of history and folklore into every site we explored. Despite winds roaring at over 30mph and the unexpected closure of one of our planned stops, Paul didn’t miss a beat. He quickly pivoted, tuning into our interests and taking us off to explore the oldest church in the UK—an awe-inspiring detour we hadn’t even imagined. Midday, we indulged in a handcrafted lunch prepared by JP Orkney Tours, a feast as thoughtful as it was tasty. Paul took us to the perfect spot for our picnic, where the views were as delicious as the meal. This wasn’t just a tour—it was an experience. Personal, immersive, and packed with character. If you want to see Orkney through the eyes of someone who truly loves and understands its soul, JP Orkney Tours is the way to go. Thank you, Paul, for a magical day—and give your lovely pup (Bingo?) some extra belly rubs from all of us!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Sylvia S 
 
456 days ago
 
 
 Verified 
Fantastic tour of Rousay with JP Orkney Tours
A fantastic day on Rousay today starting with the ferry over Eynhallow Sound. We visited the Taverstock Tuick, a neolithic cairn where human and animal remains were found and followed that by visiting Midhowe Cairn, one of the largest Neolitic cairns of its kind at 23 meters and dating back from around 3500 BC, extremely impressive. We then went to Midhowe Broch, an Iron Age fortification built by the Picts and had a picnic lunch sitting above the beach. We spotted seals and cormorants through the binoculars but too far away to photo. Next were the Iron Age fortified settlements on artificial islands called Crannogs in Wasbister Loch. Our last port of call before the ferry back was the beautiful Saviskaill Beach. On our travels we also spotted some fantastic outdoor art installations. Many thanks to Paul at JP Orkney Tours for making this happen and for his informed and entertaining commentary and historical knowledge of Orkney and many thanks to Jane for the lunches and the gift of her home made produce including Orkney Rhubarb jam.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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