Overview
Scapa Flow is a body of water in the Orkney Islands, Scotland, associated with the historic Royal Navy base and famous for the scuttling of the German fleet after World War I. It offers a mix of historical sites, museums, and scenic beauty.
Scapa Flow played a crucial role in both World Wars as a major naval base, and it is also known for the scuttling of the German High Seas Fleet in 1919.
Location
Address
Orkney
Neighborhood: Scapa Flow
Coordinates
58.905600, -3.005600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
May-September
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better weather
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to cool
- • spring flowers
- • mild weather
summer
warm to cool
- • long daylight hours
- • outdoor events
autumn
cool to mild
- • autumn colors
- • harvest season
winter
cold
- • holiday decorations
- • cozy indoor exhibits
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead for dive tours
- Bring appropriate clothing
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate to high (for diving and hiking)
- • uneven terrain
- • cold water for diving
Medical facilities: first aid available on site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit/debit cards
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, walking shoes or hiking boots, inappropriate clothing for historic sites
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 months for dive tours
- • official website or local tour operators
- • 48 hours
- • available for dive tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Scapa Flow Guide
Size: 100 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Dive tour booking, Historical information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Kirkwall Airport
Distance: 5 km
Travel Time: 10 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich history, beautiful landscapes, unique local culture
Historical Significance: Scapa Flow was a critical naval base during both World Wars and is famous for the scuttling of the German fleet in 1919.
Insider Tips
- Visit the nearby cafes for a taste of local seafood
- Join a local guided tour for insider stories
- Check out the Orkney Museum for a deeper understanding of the area's history
Local Recommendations
- • Try local seafood at the nearby cafes
- • Visit the Orkney Museum for more context
- • Ask locals for stories about the scuttled German fleet
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, German, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Churchill Barriers
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide angle for landscapes
Result: Stunning views of barriers and sea
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Orkney Museum
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Museum
St. Magnus Cathedral
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Historic Site
Highland Park Distillery
Distance: 10km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Distillery
Reviews
Based on 850 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit the cafe for refreshments"
- "Join a guided tour for more insights"
- "Bring a jacket for windy days"
Contact Information
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Available Tours
11
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
850
Adult Entry
Free