Kirkwall, Scotland

What It Is Like to Retire in Kirkwall

Kirkwall is the main city in the Orkney Islands, about 10 miles north of the main part of Scotland. The population of this major seaport is only just over 9,200, although it appears larger. The center of town is dominated by the gigantic and ancient Cathedral of St. Magnus along with the remains of the archbishop's magnificent residence. A curving pedestrian street winds past it and many restaurants and hotels, ending up at the busy harbor where fishing boats are unloading. Stay there for just a short time to see fresh seafood being brought on by the commercial fisherman. Roads and ferries go from Kirkwall to neighboring towns and the other Orkney Islands not reachable by car.

Where to Retire in Kirkwall and Home Prices

Real estate is affordable by European standards. With many homes for sale on the range of

What Is Special about Kirkwall

St. Ola And the downtown plaza it sits on make a beautiful setting to the town. The curving pedestrian street and the busy harbor provide a special charm. Nearby prehistoric ruins like the Stones of brodgar and Ring of stennis offer great appeal to those interest in history. During both world wars the Orkney Islands were of tremendous strategic importance. Both the Allies and the axis powers anchored big parts of their fleets here in the Scapa Flow because of the protection provided by the encircling islands.

What Is Not Special about Kirkwall

On the downside, the orkneys are a long ferry ride from a mainland port like John O Groats. The Orkney Islands are an isolated place to live where getting anywhere else in the world is a challenge. It can be very rainy and windy.

Who Will Like Retirement in Kirkwall

Kirkwall and other Orkney towns nearby are great places for people looking to retire in a low key place with plenty of restaurants and cultural opportunities. Hiking and cycling are very popular. British citizens can easily move here and find an affordable place to live, but non citizens will have to apply for residency.

Local Economy Is Driven by

The local economy is dominated by tourism and commercial fishing. Offshore oil rigs provide economy and considerable support for infrastructure and social programs.

Climate and Physical Environment

Located north of the Scottish mainland above Wick and Aberdeen, the Kirkwall is close to Norway on the East. Winter temps are surprisingly warm considering its latitude, with January lows in the mid 30's (F.) and July high just over 60. October is the rainiest month of the year with about 3.5 inches of rain, while some summer months get about half of that.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

There are many good restaurants here because of its base in tourism. Music is available in many pubs and venues. There many artists of all types. Skillful knitters produce high end textiles from local wool. The 5000 year Ruins of Stromness Skara Brae, Sandwick, are prehistoric sites to be experienced.

Crime

The Crime rate is very low in this isolated cluster of islands, in fact the lowest in Scotland.

Medical facilities

Most Scottish residents are very pleased with the National Health Service, which provided fee medical care for all. Free or subsidized dental care is available to many groups. Kirkwall has a hospital that can cover most situations.

Transportation

Valuable Links

There is local bus service. Ferries run from Kirkwall to Scotland, Shetlands, and Norway. There is a small airport as well.