This autumn, Orkney’s captivating landscapes have graced the big screen in The Outrun, based on Amy Liptrot’s powerful memoir. Starring Saoirse Ronan, the film weaves together themes of resilience, recovery, and connection with nature, using Orkney’s scenery as the perfect backdrop.
The Outrun brings to life the wild beauty that has long inspired locals and visitors alike, from the rugged cliffs of Marwick Head to the tranquil shores of Skaill Bay. In tribute to this story and the land it celebrates, we’re thrilled to soon be offering The Outrun Tour, designed to immerse you in Orkney’s landscapes, wildlife, and history.
The Outrun Tour Itinerary
Step into scenes from the film and experience the sites that inspired Amy Liptrot’s journey.
Stop 1: Bay of Skaill – A Place of New Beginnings
Begin your journey at the Bay of Skaill, where waves crash dramatically on the shoreline, echoing the themes of renewal and inner strength that anchor The Outrun. Walk along this beach as your guide, Paul Hudd, introduces you to the geology, wildlife, and local stories that make the Bay unforgettable. Learn how the surrounding landscapes influenced Amy’s journey, symbolising both isolation and interconnectedness.
- Duration: 1 hour
- Highlights: Beach walk, wildlife spotting, personal reflections on themes from The Outrun
Stop 2: Marwick Head – The Cliffs of Recovery
Next, we head to Marwick Head (a 10-minute drive away), where seabirds soar above the cliffs and the North Sea winds weave through heather-covered hillsides. Here, you’ll be invited to reflect in the same quiet that frames The Outrun, overlooking waves that remind us of the elemental forces at play in Orkney. Marwick Head’s towering cliffs and expansive views are some of the most iconic in Orkney.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Highlights: Cliff walk, seabird colonies, breathtaking photo opportunities, insights into local wildlife and habitats
Stop 3: The Ring of Brodgar – History Meets Nature
A short 20-minute journey inland brings us to the mystical Ring of Brodgar, one of Europe’s oldest and most remarkable stone circles. Learn about its significance as a Neolithic ritual site and its role in Orkney’s culture and history.
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Highlights: Guided history of the Neolithic site, views of Hoy hills, unique wildlife sightings
Stop 4: Birsay Causeway and Brough of Birsay – Crossroads of Ancient and Modern Worlds
Depending on tide times, visit the Brough of Birsay, a tidal island once home to Pictish and Viking settlements. This unique setting provides a look into Orkney’s layered history and offers a rare perspective on ancient coastal life. Feel the deep historical connections to land and sea that resonate through The Outrun, and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Orkney’s northern coast.
- Duration: 1 hour
- Highlights: Causeway crossing (subject to tides), Pictish and Viking history, scenic views and photo spots
The Outrun Tour: Wildlife and Local Experiences
Led by our knowledgeable local guide, Paul, The Outrun Tour also integrates moments of wildlife spotting and stories about the flora and fauna found throughout Orkney’s diverse landscapes. Paul is deeply passionate about Orkney’s natural heritage and will be on hand to guide you in your truly immersive experience.
For a truly immersive experience, we invite you to enjoy Orkney-made treats from local producers, including some of Amy’s favourite spots, giving you a taste of the same welcoming community that plays a vital role in The Outrun’s story.
Orkney Wildlife Walks
Complementing The Outrun Tour, we also offer Orkney Wildlife Walks which takes a closer look at Orkney’s ecosystems, designed for nature lovers and birdwatchers. These gentle walks span habitats ranging from heather-dappled cliffs to serene beaches, where you can spot curlews, seals, coastal wildflowers, and even puffins at the right time of year.
Whether you’re a fan of the book, the film, or simply the spirit of the Orkney Islands, The Outrun Tour is an unforgettable way to connect with both the land and its stories.
For more details and to book, get in touch!
Useful Links
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2016/jan/22/the-outrun-amy-liptrot-review-by-will-self