If you haven't visited the festival before, join us this April.
Every year, the festival welcomes an array of talented blues artists from all over the UK and world, creating an atmosphere that’s filled with energy and an appreciation for music. The festival takes place over three days from Friday to Sunday allowing plenty of opportunity to fall in love with Stromness, and fall in love with Orkney Blues.
Strong support from our locals and businesses has helped the festival grow, attracting the best blues musicians to share the stage with our own homegrown talent - and this next year is no exception as we look forward to one of the most exciting festivals in it's history.
Make Orkney Blues Festival your reason to visit the Orkney Islands
Stay at the heart of the festival in one of our hotel venues or nearby in the charming town of Stromness.
Orkney Blues Festival is a great way to discover the local music scene and experience the atmosphere of a truly unique event. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, this is a festival you won’t want to miss.
The festival event offers a range of entertainment options, with lively performances, workshops, jam sessions, and more. With its stunning location right on the harbourfront, the atmosphere is truly unique - the picturesque town of Stromness is the perfect backdrop to a truly unforgettable musical journey. ​ The festival also offers plenty of opportunities to explore the Orkney Islands. From the historical and magnificent St. Magnus Cathedral in the nearby town of Kirkwall to the impressive Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness, there’s plenty to do before and after the performances over the weekend. Nearer to hand take a walk out past Stromness Golf Course to Warebeth beach and take in the dramatic view across the sea to the islands of Graemsay and Hoy.
Wish you were here
Travel to Orkney Blues Festival 2027
Planning your trip to the Orkney Blues Festival? Here’s everything you need to know to get to the islands smoothly and enjoy your stay.
Getting to Orkney
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By Air
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Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is the main airport serving Orkney, with regular flights from:
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Aberdeen
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Edinburgh
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Glasgow
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Inverness
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Airlines include Loganair and others. Flights are short and offer stunning views of the islands.
By Ferry
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NorthLink Ferries operate services connecting Orkney to mainland Scotland:
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From Scrabster (near Thurso) to Stromness (Orkney)
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From Aberdeen to Kirkwall
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Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during festival weekends.
By Road
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If driving, plan your route to Scrabster or Aberdeen ferry terminals.
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On arrival in Orkney, car hire is available but limited — book early.
Getting Around Orkney
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Public Transport: Orkney has a reliable bus network connecting Kirkwall, Stromness, and other key locations.
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Taxis: Available but can be limited during busy periods — pre-book when possible.
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Biking & Walking: Stromness and Kirkwall are very walkable, and cycling is a popular way to explore.
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Festival Shuttle: Check back for any special shuttle services during the festival.
Accommodation
Orkney offers a range of accommodation options including hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, and self-catering cottages. We recommend booking early, especially if you want to stay close to Stromness or Kirkwall.
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Our festival partners often offer special accommodation packages when booked with your weekend pass — keep an eye out for these deals!
Travel Tips
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Weather: Orkney weather can be changeable; pack layers and waterproofs.
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Local Hospitality: The islands are known for warm welcomes and friendly locals.
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Plan Ahead: Book transport and accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment.
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Explore: Arrive early or stay late to enjoy Orkney’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.
Need Help?
If you have questions about travel options or need assistance planning your trip, chat with Orkneyblues AI anytime for quick answers.
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We look forward to welcoming you to Orkney Blues Festival 2027 — safe travels!
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Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for travel updates and festival news.
Public Bus Timetables
Stromness is served by the X1 Bus Service
Stagecoach Orkney
Public buses running between St Margaret's Hope, Kirkwall and Stromness.
Buses are availabe throughout the weekend, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
For other public bus routes in Orkney, click the link below to visit the Stagecoach website and use their search function to find the timetable you require.
Alternatively you can call their office for more information | 01856 870555
Local Taxis
Taxi's are available throughout the weekend in Orkney, including unsociable hours. Hires should be booked in advance as they are often busy.
Craigie's Taxis Kirkwall: 01856 878787
Bob's Taxis Kirkwall: 01856 876543
Brass's Taxis Stromness: 01856 850750
Stromness Taxis: 01856 852852
Orkney Ferries (Local)
Orkney Ferries operate daily services to Orkney's inner and outer isles.
Visit the Orkney Ferries website to find timetables, fares and more information.
Alternatively you can call their office for bookings and other info | 01856 872044
Local Flights
Loganair (operating with Flybe) operate flights to some of Orkney's outer isles.
Visit the Loganair website to find timetables, fares and more information.
Alternatively you can call their office for bookings and other info | 01856 873457
NorthLink Ferries
Proud Sponsor of Orkney Blues Festival
Operates a daily passenger and car service to Orkney from Aberdeen and Scrabster (North of Scotland).
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-Scrabster to Stromness (daily service)
-Aberdeen to Kirkwall (4 sailings per week)
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Connects with most national train and bus services, and flights into Aberdeen.
Pentland Ferries
Short Sea Ferries from Gills Bay
Operates a daily passenger and car service from Gills Bay (North of Scotland) and St Margarets Hope. Connects with most national train and bus services from Inverness, and flights into Wick.
Get a return passenger fare to Orkney from as little as £28.00.
Flybe / Loganair
Flights from Scotland and UK
Operates daily flights to Kirkwall in the Orkney Islands, from most of Scotland's airports.
Kirkwall airport is connected with buses and taxis within Orkney.
Travel within Scotland
Buses and Trains to the Islands
CityLink Bus - Linking all of Scotland's major cities
Stagecoach Bus - Multiple national and local services around Scotland
ScotRail Train - Linking Scotland's major towns and cities by rail
Megabus - Low cost inner-city travel in Scotland