First Orkney Archaeology Festival kicks off with four-day event in September

Monday, July 21, 2025 (8:25 AM)

The Ness excavation site looking south-east towards the Brig o' Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. (📷 Nick Card) — The Ness excavation site looking south-east towards the Brig o’ Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. (📷 Nick Card)

The Ness of Brodgar will be among the projects, sites and topics featuring in September’s inaugural Orkney Archaeology Festival.

Stenness megalith, looking towards the Watchstone, Brig o' Brodgar and the Ness of Brodgar. (Sigurd Towrie) — Stenness megaliths. (📷 Sigurd Towrie)

Running from September 11-14, the four-day event is run by the Orkney Archaeology Society (OAS), in partnership with the UHI Archaeology Institute, Historic Environment Scotland, Orkney Islands Council, Orkney Time Travel and Immersive Orkney and will celebrate the islands’ world-renowned archaeological heritage.

From the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, Bronze Age burials, Iron Age brochs, viking settlements and 20th century wartime relics, the festival offers something for everyone with events including guided walks, talks, family-friendly hands-on activities, site tours, and special behind-the-scenes experiences.

Whether exploring chambered cairns, hearing the latest research from leading archaeologists or getting stuck in with experimental archaeology, attendees will find opportunities to connect with Orkney’s fascinating past.

Hayley Green, of the OAS, said: “This festival is a celebration not only of Orkney’s extraordinary archaeological richness but also of the vibrant community that helps protect, study and share it. We’re thrilled to bring people together from across Orkney and beyond to explore, learn, and enjoy.”

The full programme, with over 27 free and ticketed events.of events, will be available shortly via the Orkney Archaeology Society website and those interested are advised to book early as spaces for some events will be limited.