Why Mainland
Mainland is the primary island of the Orkney archipelago in Scotland, serving as the central hub for the surrounding region. It is home to the majority of Orkney's residents and houses the territory's principal settlements. Kirkwall, the capital, sits on a central isthmus flanked by harbours facing both the northern and southern islands. Further west lies the historic seaport of Stromness, characterized by stone buildings along narrow lanes, while Finstown forms the third major community.
The landscape rests largely on ancient Old Red Sandstone, creating fertile soil for farming. The western region features low-lying terrain bordered by dramatic northern and western sea cliffs, alongside major freshwater bodies such as the Loch of Stenness and the Loch of Harray. To the east, the island extends into the W-shaped Deerness peninsula. Southern travel is facilitated by the Churchill Barriers, a series of four causeways linking Mainland to neighbouring islands across the waters of Scapa Flow. A portion of the west falls within the Hoy and West Mainland National Scenic Area.
Human history on the island spans thousands of years, highlighted by the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site. Key ancient monuments include the chambered tomb of Maes Howe, the ceremonial stone circles of Brodgar and Stenness, the Barnhouse Settlement, and the prehistoric village of Skara Brae. Later historical periods left behind Pictish remains and extensive Viking influences, seen in local place names, runic carvings, and the ruins at the Brough of Birsay. Notable architecture includes Kirkwall’s St. Magnus Cathedral and the ruined Earl’s Palace in Birsay parish.
The natural environment supports a rich diversity of wildlife and plant species. The surrounding waters and coastal areas host extensive seabird populations, while the Loch of Harray serves as a vital wintering habitat for thousands of ducks. Upland moorlands provide nesting grounds for birds of prey such as hen harriers, merlins, and short-eared owls. Land mammals include the Orkney vole, a distinct sub-species found only within the archipelago. Rare local flora includes the Scottish primrose and the coastal oyster plant.
Mainland experiences a temperate climate influenced by its maritime setting, with average temperatures ranging from 4 °C in winter to 12 °C in summer. Summer days bring extended light where darkness is absent, contrasting with brief winter daylight. Access to the island is available via Kirkwall Airport, which operates flights to mainland Scottish cities and Shetland. Regular passenger and vehicle ferries connect Kirkwall and Stromness to ports in Caithness, Aberdeen, and Lerwick, as well as providing transport to Orkney's outer islands.
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