This magnificent Cathedral is in the centre of Kirkwall, once on the seashore but now a little inland. It was built by the some of the same team who built Durham Cathedral which we have also visited.

St. Magnus was murdered for political reasons but his grave became known for miracles and in 1137 his uncle commenced building the cathedral to house his remains.

A few years ago I read a book on a great arctic explorer named John Rae who was born in the Orkneys. “Fatal Passage: The story of John Rae, the Arctic hero time forgot.”

His mausoleum is in this cathedral which was a nice find.

Opposite the cathedral is a great museum detailing Orkney history, well worth a visit.