Lasr Day in Orkney

We travel across to the Shetlands tonight so have spent our last day exploring all around Kirkwall.

This morning we visited the Earl's Palace and the Bishop's Palace. This earl was Earl Patrick, son of Earl Robert. He did not sound very nice either and actually annexed the Bishop's Palace for himself at one stage. He did come to a nasty end though and so did his son. I think they were a violent lot in those days.

The palace was a lovely ruin and looked very picturesque. The Banquet Hall looked very regal and would have made a great place for a festival.

We climbed to the top of the Bishop's Palace and admired the view over the cathredral. Then we climbed down, crossed the road and visited the cathredral, parts of which date back to the 10th century. Around the inside walls were many old tombstones which were decorated with skulls.

Afterwards we visited the museum and renewed our acquaintance with the neolithic world as we looked at all the artefacts, many of which had come from places we had visited over the last few days.

We also enjoyed eating Orkney ice cream which we were advised not to eat until it softened a little. It took a long time as it was a sunny day but rather cold. It was worth the wait.

We have really enjoyed our visit to Orkney - the historical sites, the scenery and especially the puffins.