Kirkwall (population 8,700) is the capital city of the Orkney archipelago off the North East of Scotland. Its name is of Norse origin and reflects the Nordic heritage of the city, as does the chief edifice: the medieval St Magnus Cathedral.
The Norse travelled to Orkney by long-ships and Kirkwall is still a port town. There are regular ferry services to and from Aberdeen, Caithness and Sutherland. Kirkwall itself has an airport and the main island of Orkney has a good road infrastructure.
As well as a developed transport infrastructure, Kirkwall also has advanced public services. Kirkwall High School provides secondary education, whilst Papdale and Glaitness provide primary education. The Orkney Islands are a popular destination for tourists, and there are a wide range of restaurants and B&Bs to accommodate visitors. The local topography provides numerous opportunities for hill-walking and there is a Kirkwall Golf Course.
For more information about the area, see the Visit Orkney website.