Earl's Bu and Round Church, Orphir

Why this place matters

Norse elite estate and church landscape connected with the Orkneyinga Saga.

The story on the ground

The Earl’s Bu at Orphir was an important Norse estate associated with Orkney’s medieval earls. Beside it stand the remains of Scotland’s only surviving medieval round church, creating a compact landscape of Norse political power, Christian worship and saga history.

Before you go

• Open year-round. The archaeological remains are outdoors, eight miles west of Kirkwall on the A964.

Visitor information checked 2026-08-24. Always confirm with the official site before travelling.