Bishop's Palace and Earl's Palace
About
Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces, on the historic Watergate in Kirkwall, offer a captivating journey through Scotland’s medieval and renaissance past. Originally the Bishop’s Palace dates back to the early 12th century, contemporaneous with St Magnus Cathedral, and was later transformed into a grand renaissance palace by Earl Patrick Stewart in the 1600s. The ruins now provide an evocative backdrop for visitors, with stone walls, courtyard spaces, and panoramic views of Kirkwall’s harbor. <br/><br/> Visitors enjoy guided tours for Historic Environment Scotland members and a range of educational activities for all ages. Tickets are required for entry, with free admission granted to members. The site is open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm (with a lunch closure from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm) April through September, while closed from October to March for conservation work. <br/><br/> The Palaces are accessible for visitors with reduced mobility and provide a unique glimpse into Orkney’s architectural heritage and Norse‑Scottish history.
Highlights
- Medieval Palace Ruins
- Earl’s Palace Ruins
- Historic Environment Scotland Visitor Experience