Top-Rated Orkney Tours – Explore Hidden Gems with us

Discover Top-Rated Orkney Tours That Go Beyond the Expected

We’re proud to have received over 100 five-star reviews from our wonderful guests on Google and Tripadvisor (and counting!). At JP Orkney Tours, we pride ourselves on being one of the highest-rated tour companies in Orkney. Our private, personalised tours provide a unique way to explore Orkney’s stunning landscapes, ancient heritage, and hidden gems.

 
 
 
  EXCELLENT  
    
 Based on 77 reviews 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Nancy Goldsmith 
 
2024-09-01
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We had a fabulous day in Orkney with Paul!!!  He is incredibly knowledgeable and personable!  We saw and learned so much about Orkney and its history.  And Paul provided a delicious lunch in the greenhouse behind his house with a beautiful view from his back yard!  I highly recommend JP Orkney!!!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Erin Taylor 
 
2024-08-31
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Bang for the buck! We had one full day on Orkney and Paul gave us the best day! We were particularly interested in neolithic sites and Paul arranged a full day of "old rocks" - our fav! Paul was very personable and had a wealth of knowledge. Added bonus: a delicious lunch! I definitely recommend JP Orkney Tours!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Bruce 
 
2024-08-29
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Paul put together a great experience for us.  We were on a cruise and opted out of the cruise provided tours, instead asking JP Orkney to show us what he and Jane were most proud of on their island in an all day tour and get us back to the boat on time.  They did all of the above, visiting more sites, even more hidden neighborhood sites, a private lunch, and was voted by our group as the best day of our 14 day cruise adventure!!!  Paul’s full of knowledge and stories, never a dull moment.  When we were at a few sites and he was describing intricate details of the stone setup, the tourists on the other tours on “private exploration time” (meaning their company isn’t going to pay for a knowledgeable guide to take you around the site, you must get 4,000 year old information by osmosis) would gather around an listen in to his explanations.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Carol Shearer 
 
2024-08-20
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Amazing, fabulous, over-the-top great - wish we could give JP Orkney tours  TEN stars.  We were a family of five (us, adult children and S.O.) on a cruise, and found Jane and Paul's tour for our day on Orkney.  It was outstanding.  Paul is an amazing tour guide - one of the best we've ever had the pleasure of spending time with - and he made our day on Orkney spectacular.  Fun, informative, thoroughly enjoyable.  We opted for their homemade lunch, and it was delicious.  If you ever have the good fortune to spend time on Orkney, you absolutely want to book a tour with JP Orkney. You will LOVE it!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Nicole Hsu 
 
2024-08-18
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I rate this 10 stars 😁. We had the very old, the very young, the very loud, and the very lazy in our van with us. On top of sharing some amazing history with us, and taking us to all the best sites, Paul was able to keep my kids corralled and entertained, and all of us in great spirits, even those of us who crankily refused to leave the van. The boxed picnic lunch was great - they may have ruined all future sandwiches for me!  When he says he is taking you to his garden, it’s no ordinary backyard. All the details have been carefully thought out behind the scenes - the history behind every site has been studied well, the immaculate electric van is equipped with water, and speakers so everyone can hear. All the bathrooms on the island are likely mapped out in Paul’s head. Timing and mobility are all taken into account in his recommendations, and on top of it, they are just the nicest, sweetest people. I highly recommend this!!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Michael Marcotte 
 
2024-08-13
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Excellent tour. Paul was a very knowledgeable and friendly guide. Confortable Mercedes van.  Very good itinerary and amount of time at each site. Convenient pickup and drop off at hotel.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 The Bagleys 
 
2024-08-07
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We thoroughly enjoyed our Orkney tour with Paul. He took us all around the island to all the sites we requested and more. He is very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and friendly!  We had a delicious lunch on the coast made by Jane and including homemade jams etc. We highly recommend JP Orkney for tours!!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Beth Stephenson 
 
2024-08-01
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Jane and Paul's tour of Orkney is brilliant!  The vehicle is very comfortable and made the excursion quite pleasant.  Paul's knowledge of the area and commitment to providing an enjoyable learning experience is impressive.  He also took notice of our interests and customized the tour accordingly.  We can't recommend a JP Orkney tour highly enough.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Wilf Stevenson 
 
2024-08-01
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
An excellent guide and we spent two days with him, both were well organised, informative and most enjoyable.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Mandy Macdonald 
 
2024-07-31
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
This day tour of several of the major Neolithic sites of Orkney (including the Stones of Stenness, Ring of Brodgar, Maes Howe, and Skara Brae) was excellent. Paul is very experienced and knowledgeable about the monuments and also gave us  lots of information about contemporary Orkney; his enthusiasm and love for the islands shines through in conversation. The day was informal in style, involving quite a lot of driving from place to place, but all the arrangements worked completely smoothly. We would strongly recommend JP Orkney Tours to anyone wanting to explore these beautiful and evocative places.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 

Why Choose JP Orkney Tours?

At JP Orkney Tours, we offer more than just sightseeing – we deliver an authentic Orkney experience tailored to your interests. Our guests consistently rate our tours and overall experience as exceptional, and here’s why:

• Personalised Itineraries: Whether you’re fascinated by Neolithic sites, World War II relics, or hidden gems off the beaten path, we design each tour around your preferences.
• Luxury & Comfort: Travel in eco-friendly style with our fully electric Mercedes van. We provide comfort and sustainability as you explore the islands.
• Local Knowledge: Your guide, Paul, is a certified local expert who brings Orkney’s rich history to life with captivating stories and insights.

Our guests love their time with us. Erin Taylor recently shared, “Paul gave us the best day in Orkney! We had one full day and learned so much. I particularly loved the Neolithic sites, and the homemade lunch was an added treat!”

 
 
 
  EXCELLENT  
    
 Based on 46 reviews 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Connector632862 
 
2024-08-04
 
 
 Verified 
Two perfect days
Orkney was at its best, sunny weather, some wind and peedie showers - and lots of interesting sites. Together with Jane and Paul, we had designed a great itinerary. Already on the first day, we were impressed by Paul (or driver and guide for the two days). There was immense wealth of knowledge combined with on the fly adaptations of the itinerary> If a site wast too crowded, we moved to the next site and doubled back later. Paul’s style is very social and the topics with deep dives were adapted based on our questions and interests. In addition to sites, we were also treated to lovely drives through the Orkney landscape with a wonderful picnic consisting sandwiches with homemade chutney, biscuits and jam, yum!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 tracy t 
 
2024-07-30
 
 
 Verified 
Great experience!
My husband and I booked a full day private tour with Jane and Paul in early May 2024. We wanted to see the major Neolithic and World War II sites on the Orkney Islands. In addition, we wanted to see St. Peter’s Church and cemetery, as my husband has ancestors buried there. Paul was our guide, and he designed the tour itinerary. When we asked to add another site, Paul was flexible and easily incorporated it without short-changing any of the other sites we were interested in. Paul arrived promptly at our hotel to pick us up in a fully electric Mercedes van. The van was clean, quiet and very comfortable. Paul is a certified guide, with substantial training and knows a great deal about the Islands, including what happened there during World War II. He is also well-versed in the Neolithic history of the Islands and more. He cheerfully answered all of our questions, and we both felt we learned a great deal in a short period of time. In addition, he knew the church and cemetery we wanted to see, and he even helped us find my husband’s ancestors’ grave, which we really appreciated. One of the unique features of our tour was a delicious lunch with ingredients sustainably grown by Jane and Paul at their home farm. Paul did the cooking for our lunch, which was made up of traditional Orkney Island foods. Paul and Jane offer vegetarian options for non-meat eaters. They bake the yummy desserts themselves. They sell their products on their website. Paul has an engaging personality and a good sense of humor. He made the learning experience fun and interesting. He and Jane have a thoughtful, sustainable business designed to give those interested in the Orkney Islands a rewarding, enriching experience. Our Orkney Islands adventure was a highlight of our trip. We would book with Paul and Jane again in a heartbeat!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Jo G 
 
2024-07-29
 
 
 Verified 
best tour ever!
This tour was by the best and most fun tour we have taken ever! Paul was informative, friendly, funny and was just the best! we even had lunch that he prepared in his house! This was a great day ... if you are going to Orkney don't miss it!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Ibis 
 
2024-07-29
 
 
 Verified 
Superb!
We can't recommend this tour highly enough. Jane and Paul provide a wonderful service, and we thoroughly enjoyed exploring some of the amazing sites on Orkney Mainland. From the Italian Chapel to the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar, the Brough of Birsay and Skara Brae, we learned so many fascinating details from Paul. And he took special notice of things we were interested in, and made sure we had the best experience possible. Kudos to Jane and Paul for making our trip to Orkney very special!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Samantha M 
 
2024-07-10
 
 
 Verified 
Fantastic Orkney Tour Guide! Look no Further!
Paul did an AMAZING job taking us all around Orkney! We spent 3 days with him. He is incredibly knowledgeable, he knows how to get you to the best places, and make sure you have a great time. His vehicle is a spacious Mercedes van, seats probably 6 (maybe 7)- we were only 4. Very comfortable ride, and he has a speaker in the vehicle so all can hear. He tells you all about the surrounding area as you go from breathtaking place to breathtaking place. We learned so much! We had a mixed group- a 20 yr old boy, his parents and grandmother. Paul was thoughtful about everyone’s needs and wants. This included making sure grandmother could enjoy with less walking/stair climbing, and (picky eater) could enjoy a simple meal (ham sandwich) with Jane and Paul’s delicious brownies. We saw the standing stones at the ring of Brodgar, the Neolithic village at Skara Brae, the cairn at Maeshowe, Ness of Brodgar, Earl’s Palace, Broch of Gurness, Kirkwall, St. Magnus Cathedral, shopping in Kirkwall, lunch at a lovely cafe in a Jewelry shop, and so much more! Paul took us for a beautiful picnic lunch he prepared with delicious local foods, homemade soup, yummy chutneys and baked goods he and his wife make, vegetables grown by them as well. So Good!! Plus we met his dog and his chickens. His cat went on a stroll with us as well :) Hands down the best tour we could have taken. We are leaving Orkeny with so much education, and having had a wonderful time thanks to him.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Susan R 
 
2024-06-02
 
 
 Verified 
The best thing you can do in Kirkwall on your visit
You must book with JP Orkney tours. They are so amazing. You get a personal experience, great hospitality, and an up close look at Kirkwall. We loved every minute and all the details the company provides. Paul is a great guide. He is sincere, knowledgeable, and helps you make the most of your visit. He took us to many Neolithic sites, old castle ruins, we saw a Viking village, St Magnus cathedral and this list goes on. If you can , I highly recommend their picnic lunch. Paul and his wife , Jane, have a catering business and make homemade jams and chutney. ( delicious and I highly recommend getting some . About 3-5 pounds each) They make you a beautiful lunch and you enjoy it in a picture perfect place. In our case, we sat overlooking the sea as weather was in our favor. Of all the tours we have been on, we all (group of 6) rank this as number one. I highly recommend them and. I strongly suggest booking early as you don’t want to miss out.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Priscilla M 
 
2023-11-10
 
 
 Verified 
A day to remember
If you are looking for a day out in Orkney look no further. Paul was very knowledgeable and made our day one to remember. He gave us information on local life and answered the many questions that our inquisitive kids had. He made us feel comfortable and adjusted itinerary and timings according to our needs - truly an enjoyable day.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 melissa s 
 
2023-11-05
 
 
 Verified 
BEST Guide in all of Scotland
WOW! Paul is so knowledgeable and even shares a few folklores. He took us to places we wouldn't have found on our own. His wife provided a lunch that we enjoyed in Paul's backyard overlooking the ocean.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 David H 
 
2023-10-20
 
 
 Verified 
Orkney in a day
I only had one full day in Orkney and so wanted to make the most of it. Paul's suggested itinerary covered all the sites that I wanted to visit. It was a long but most enjoyable day. He was an informative and entertaining guide. Highly recommended.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Simpson-trippers 
 
2023-10-16
 
 
 Verified 
Great day of highlights
A great day trip highlighting the wonders of Orkney, with a tasty lunch and plenty to see. John is a friendly and knowledgeable guide, who tailored our itinerary to suit our interests. Comfortable van and punctual; highly recommended.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 

Five-Star Reviews for Our Top-Rated Orkney Tours

We’ve received 77 glowing reviews on Google and 46 more on Tripadvisor, and the feedback keeps coming. Our guests frequently mention the exceptional service and attention to detail.

Little-Known Orkney Facts You’ll Discover on Our Tours

As part of your journey with us, you’ll uncover fascinating, lesser-known facts. Not only this, but with us you get to experience Orkney as a local. Here are just a few intriguing details we share on our tours:

• Neolithic Astronomy: While sites like Maeshowe and Skara Brae are famous, did you know that many Neolithic structures were aligned with solar events? For example, the Maeshowe chamber lights up with the setting sun during the winter solstice. This highlights the advanced astronomical understanding of ancient Orkney inhabitants.
• Viking Runestones: Orkney’s Viking history is well known, but few realise the islands are home to rare Viking runestones. Get a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and their significant influence on Orkney.
• Secret Islands: Orkney comprises over 70 islands, yet only 20 are inhabited. We’ll share stories about some uninhabited islands – where ancient ruins and relics can still be found.
• Napoleonic Martello Towers: Built to protect against potential French attacks during the Napoleonic Wars, Orkney’s Martello Towers offer a fascinating insight into the islands’ lesser-known military history.

What to Expect on Your JP Orkney Tour

• Customised Experience: Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks or secluded scenic spots, each tour is tailored to your preferences.
• Luxury Electric Vehicle: Travel in comfort and eco-friendly style in our spacious Mercedes van, which accommodates up to six guests.
• Homemade Lunches (optional – requires booking in advance): We can prepare a delicious homemade lunch with local ingredients to enjoy in scenic locations.
• Expert Local Guide: With Paul’s deep knowledge of the area, you’ll learn the hidden stories and insights that most visitors miss.

Plan Your Unforgettable Orkney Adventure Today!

With our five-star reviews and reputation as one of the top-rated Orkney tours, JP Orkney Tours is your gateway to an unforgettable island experience. Don’t just take our word for it – our satisfied customers consistently rave about our expertise, hospitality, and personalised service.

Book your JP Orkney tour today, and let us help you discover the hidden gems, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history that make Orkney one of the worlds most captivating destinations.