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The Atlas Obscura Guide To Orkney

12 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Orkney, Scotland

Updated September 30, 2021

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Unusual Attractions in Orkney

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Neolithic 3
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Standing Stones 2
Geology 2
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Two of these polished stone balls were found in a Neolithic tomb on a remote Scottish island.

Why Were These Mysterious Stone Orbs Stashed All Over Neolithic Britain?

Two new ones just turned up in a tomb on a remote Scottish island. 
by Hannah Seo
These women weren’t just dropping by. See the trowel in her hand?

The Female Archaeologists of the Scottish Orkneys Were Hiding in Plain Sight

The women in this century-old photo weren't visitors—they were probably scientists.
by Jessica Leigh Hester
A fairly unusual sight: Sheep share the shore with seals, known as “selkies” in Orcadian dialect.

The Uncertain Future of North Ronaldsay's Seaweed-Eating Sheep

Concerned islanders are rethinking old traditions to ensure the survival of this very special breed.
by Karen Gardiner
The Hudson’s Bay Company’s outpost on the shore of Lake Saskatoon, Canada. Gunn traveled 1,800 miles between remote trading posts, disguised as a man.

The Teen Who Trekked 1,800 Miles Through the Canadian Wilderness Disguised as a Man

Her ruse worked—until she had a baby.
by Ailsa Ross

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