Earl's Bu and Church Orphir (Round Kirk)
Step into Orkney's Viking past at Earl's Bu and the atmospheric Round Kirk, a site steeped in saga lore and coastal beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Earl's Bu and Church Orphir (Round Kirk)
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Orkney's Viking past at Earl's Bu and the atmospheric Round Kirk, a site steeped in saga lore and coastal beauty.
"Very atmospheric and clearly well cared for, a must visit if you're interested in the Orkneyinga Saga."
⏳ Check Visitor Centre Hours
The Orkneyinga Saga Centre may have limited hours or be closed seasonally. Confirm before your visit.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the ruins and surrounding coastal paths with ease. Good for walking on uneven ground.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.3 · 128 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Earl's Bu Ruins
Coastal site
Explore the atmospheric remains of this historic Viking settlement, steeped in saga lore.
Round Kirk (Church of Orphir)
Adjacent to Earl's Bu
Discover the well-tended ruins of this ancient church, a key site in Orkney's history.
Orkneyinga Saga Centre
Visitor Information Centre
Learn about the rich history of the Orkneyinga Saga through informative displays.
Coastal Beach Walk
Adjoining the site
Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the beautiful beach, soaking in the quiet atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Viking History Awaits
Peaceful Coastal Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Check Visitor Centre Hours
The Orkneyinga Saga Centre may have limited hours or be closed seasonally. Confirm before your visit.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the ruins and surrounding coastal paths with ease. Good for walking on uneven ground.
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
The ruins and coastal setting are incredibly photogenic, especially in soft light.
🗺️ Combine with St. Magnus Way
The site is part of the scenic St. Magnus Way walking route.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Check Visitor Centre Hours
The Orkneyinga Saga Centre may have limited hours or be closed seasonally. Confirm before your visit.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the ruins and surrounding coastal paths with ease. Good for walking on uneven ground.
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
The ruins and coastal setting are incredibly photogenic, especially in soft light.
🗺️ Combine with St. Magnus Way
The site is part of the scenic St. Magnus Way walking route.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Earl's Bu and the Round Kirk for their rich Viking history and atmospheric coastal setting. Many appreciate the peacefulness and the opportunity to explore the ruins and learn about the Orkneyinga Saga. Some note that the visitor centre's opening hours can be inconsistent.
"If you like Viking history, this is a great place. It's only small but well worth a visit if on this part of Mainland. Very atmospheric and clearly well cared for. Sadly the Orkneyinga Saga Centre was closed (not open in 2021 at all apparently) but still well worth seeing the ruins and the church. The area is beautiful anyway and when we visited we had the place to ourselves which was a bonus."
Catherine Cowlishaw
"It's fascinating to learn about the Orkney Saga's. A must visiting you're in the area. Nice walk around the Bu and onto St Mangus Way. The visitors centre offers a film that explains the history of Orkney."
Samantha Davies
"Historic ruin set on a glorious coastal site. The information centre succinctly tells of its history and fortunes. It is very well worth visiting."
Kathy Howlett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Earl's Bu and the Round Kirk are located on the mainland of Orkney, near Orphir. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the site. There is a big car park available next to the visitor centre.
Public transport options might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes serving the Orphir area. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Orkney.
Many visitors combine a visit to Earl's Bu and the Round Kirk with a walk along the beautiful coastal paths or as part of the St. Magnus Way pilgrimage route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Earl's Bu ruins and the Round Kirk is generally free. The Orkneyinga Saga Centre may have an admission fee or be closed seasonally.
The outdoor ruins are accessible at any time. However, the Orkneyinga Saga Centre has specific opening hours, which can vary. It's recommended to check their official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours.
Reports indicate the visitor centre has experienced closures, including during 2021 due to COVID-19. Always verify current operating status before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the atmospheric ruins of Earl's Bu, a historic Viking settlement, and the well-tended remains of the Round Kirk. The site offers a glimpse into Orkney's rich Viking and ecclesiastical past.
Yes, there is an Orkneyinga Saga Centre that provides historical context and information about the site. It often features a film explaining Orkney's history.
The graveyard surrounding the Round Kirk is accessible and worth a look, offering a peaceful atmosphere and historical insights.
Children interested in history and exploring ruins might enjoy the site. The open space and coastal proximity can also be appealing.
The ruins and coastal scenery are very photogenic. Visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting, or on a misty day for an atmospheric feel.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options directly at Earl's Bu are limited as it's a historical site. You'll find more restaurants and cafes in the nearby town of Kirkwall or Stromness.
The peaceful coastal location and adjoining beach make it a lovely spot for a picnic. Remember to take all your rubbish with you to preserve the site's beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit