Scottish Highlands Towns and Villages

Kirkwall holiday accommodation cottages, cabins, caravans and hotels

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Last Updated on Saturday, 05 May 2012 17:33

Kirkwall stands on the northern end of the Kirkwall-Scapa isthmus which divides Mainland into eastern and western parts. The town dominated by its splendid 800 year old cathedral spreads up the hillside from the harbour. Historically Kirkwall has been the main island centre since it was a Norse trading centre and today it combines its role of capital with that of shopping and business centre. Notable events include the Christmas and New Years Day Ba' Games when the Uppies play the Downies, symbolizing the ancient rivalry between the bishop's ecclesiastical town and the secular authority represented by the now vanished castle.