Festivals & Major Events
Orkney is home to some of Scotland’s most unique and well-loved festivals. If your visit lines up with one of these, you’re in for something special:
St Magnus Festival – A celebration of music, arts, and culture held each June across Orkney
Orkney Folk Festival – A lively weekend of traditional and contemporary music, centred in Stromness
Orkney International Science Festival – Talks, workshops, and events exploring science and creativity
These events attract visitors from across the world, so we recommend booking your stay early.
Local Events in Kirkwall
Kirkwall offers a range of smaller events throughout the year, from live music and exhibitions to markets and seasonal celebrations.
During your stay at Garden House, you may find:
Live music in local pubs and venues
Exhibitions at the Orkney Museum and Pier Arts Centre
Craft markets and local food / produce events
Community festivals and celebrations
Our central location means you’re just a short walk from many of these events, visit www.orkney.com/events for an up-to-date guide to what's going on during your stay.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re visiting in summer’s long daylight hours or during the cosy winter months, there’s always something happening to help you experience the islands like a local.
If you’re planning your trip around a specific event, we recommend booking your accommodation early, as availability can be limited during peak periods.
If you’d like help finding out what’s happening during your stay, our friendly local team are always happy to assist - just get in touch on rooms@gardenhouseorkney.com or +44 (0)1856 850280.