Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces - Kirkwall

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Kirkwall, the capital of Scotland's Orkney Islands, lies a historic gem: Bishop's and Earl's Palaces. These iconic buildings, standing side by side at Watergate, offer a fascinating glimpse into Scotland's past. Together, they form one of the most significant secular fortified complexes in Scotland, dating back to the 12th century.

Main Services

• Historic Site Visit: Explore the rich history of these palaces, which have served as the residence of bishops and earls over the centuries.
• Educational Experience: Delve into the interactive exhibits and learn about the architectural evolution of the palaces and the lives of their former inhabitants.
• Scenic Views: Ascend to the top of Bishop's Palace for a breathtaking panoramic view of Kirkwall and its surrounding countryside.
• Cultural Events: Attend special events and exhibitions hosted at the palaces throughout the year.

Location and Access

The palaces are situated at Watergate, Kirkwall KW15 1PD, United Kingdom. They are easily accessible by foot from Kirkwall's town center and are approximately a 5-minute walk from the bus station. There is no dedicated car park, but there are several public car parks nearby.

For public transport, Stagecoach operates bus services in Orkney. Kirkwall is served by Orkney Ferries and Loganair flights from various destinations in Scotland and beyond.

Featured Characteristics

• Architecture: The palaces showcase a blend of architectural styles, from the 12th-century Romanesque Bishop's Palace to the 17th-century Baroque Earl's Palace, demonstrating the evolution of Scottish architecture.
• Gardens: The palaces are surrounded by beautiful gardens, featuring a variety of plant species and sculptures, providing a peaceful space for visitors to relax and enjoy.
• Interactive Exhibits: Discover the palaces' history through interactive displays, audio-visual presentations, and replica artifacts that bring the past to life.
• Guided Tours: Expert guides are available to lead tours, providing in-depth insights into the palaces' history and answering visitors' questions.

Practical Information

Opening times vary by season, so it's recommended to check the Historic Environment Scotland website for up-to-date information. Admission is free with a valid Explorer Pass or costs £9 for adults and £5.40 for concessions (prices subject to change).

Accessibility: The palaces are partially accessible for wheelchair users, with some areas having limitations due to their historic nature. Assistance dogs are welcome.

Facilities: Toilets, a gift shop, and a small café are available on-site.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Visitors consistently praise the palaces for their historic significance, well-preserved architecture, and scenic views. The knowledgeable guides and interactive exhibits are often highlighted as standout features. The gardens' tranquility and beauty also receive high commendation. Some visitors appreciate the palaces' relatively minimal interpretation, allowing for a more personal exploration of the sites.

❓ Frequently asked questions about Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces

👍 Reviews of Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces

Tork M.

4/5

had a quick tour round both palaces after buying tickets from the knowledgable guide in his wee box,not much info boards in place but plenty of places to take great pics most of which didnt come out for me because tech issues so heres a few taken from the top of St Magnus

Henry G. (.

4/5

Interesting place if relatively minimally interpreted, so quite a quick experience. Good view from top of bishop's palce in cathedral

rick C.

5/5

Getting tickets was easy and the people selling the tickets care about the buildings. They had stories to tell. The restoration is in progress but the ruins that remain are very impressive and caused us to talk about how life might have been.

Katie B.

5/5

We had a good time visiting the palaces which span across a street, with the Bishop’s on one side of the road, and the Earl’s on the other. You buy your tickets from the little hut on the Earl’s side, further away from the cathedral. Only a 5 minute walk from the center and town, this is a fun spot to walk around, and you can see a variety of rooms and learn how they were used centuries ago.

César R.

5/5

Amazing historic place, not too many turists around and you can take amazing photos.

Steven R.

5/5

Located by the St. Magnus Cathedral, this large but in ruins castle, is waiting for you to explore! You explore most areas of the castle, including climbing the winding steps of the partially standing tower. Parking is a bit limited on the road. There is an admission fee. Bathrooms are a couple of blocks down the street in City Hall.

Mark H.

5/5

This was our first historical stop on Orkney. We were able to pick up or Discovery Pass here. The person that was working at the ticket office was exceptionally helpful and gave us the full run down on his recommendations for the short two days that we would be on Orkney. The castles themselves were interesting because we were able to explore all of it - no ropes or “no-go” zones - the entire place is open for exploration. We spent about an hour here. Very much recommend a visit!

Liam D.

4/5

The buildings are very interesting, but it was closed when i got there. You can view them from outside but i would have enjoyed to go inside and have a look around. Be aware of the season and the open times, and phone ahead.