The islands have good air links to the rest of Scotland and the UK. 

Kirkwall is 90 minutes from either Edinburgh or Glasgow, 45 minutes from Aberdeen and half an hour from Inverness. British Airways operate flights from all of the above airports, all of which have excellent UK connections.

 For full details and reservations phone 0845 77 333 77 or book online.

Kirkwall travel agent, Ridgeway travel are also pleased to help you with your travel arrangement. Phone 01856 873359 or visit their website.

Two ferry companies run services between Orkney and the Scottish mainland:

• Northlink ferries: Aberdeen/Kirkwall/Shetland; Thurso/Stromness
• Pentland Ferries – Gill's Bay, Caithness/St Margaret's Hope

There is also a passenger-only service from John O'Groats to Burwick, in South Ronaldsay.