The number of Orcadians cycling is 4% above the national average and work is being done to encourage more to use pedal power to get to work and for leisure.  Orkney’s many quiet roads and tracks are perfect for exploring on two wheels, some linking parishes and ancient routes.  An Orkney route forms part of Sustrans’ National Route 1 which runs from Dover in Kent to Shetland.  And a book featuring 24 cycle routes in Orkney is widely available.  VisitOrkney has many suggestions for leisure routes which can get you from A to B or provide a circular tour.

Kick Start Kirkwall is a scheme encouraging people to reduce their car usage and take the bus, walk or cycle.  You can download the Kirkwall travel map for cycle routes around town.  And cycle safety training courses are run at Orkney primary schools to keep children safe while awareness campaigns aim to make drivers take care of young cyclists on the roads.  The campaign is also working with bus companies to carry bikes on the buses.

Bikes can be hired on Orkney mainland and in the isles, along with helmets, locks and panniers if required.  Tandems and child towing buggies are also on offer so the whole family can have pedal power.