Scotland's Year of Food and Drink - Orkney
Get a taste of Scotland in Orkney and find fresh, seasonal island produce served up across the region.
Orkney's remote islands sit far out in the ocean, north east of Scotland's mainland, where you can escape the daily routine to 
savour an array of flavours. It is not surprising that seafood caught from the surrounding waters is a favourite with the locals but Orkney is also known for its beef, North Ronaldsay lamb, creamy cheeses, fruit and vegetables. Dark Island or Skull Splitter beers provide the perfect end to an evening in warm Scottish bars and sampling a dram of Highland Park whisky is a must. Restaurant views are often just as exceptional as the foodie delights on offer making the journey to this tranquil archipelago well worth it.
We’ve put together a selection of events, foodie establishments and attractions so that you can enjoy Orkney in the Year of Food and Drink.
Events
Orkney Country Show
When: 14 August 2010
Where: Bignold Park, Kirkwall, Orkney
A fantastic opportunity to see some of Orkney's quality livestock with sections in cattle, sheep, horses, goats, dogs and poultry as well as an action packed entertainment programme. The park will be decorated with over 90 stands showcasing quality local produce and crafts.
Foodie Establishments
Sands Hotel
The restaurant is situated in a former herring station which has been tastefully refurbished with a nautical theme, and has a busy ambience with light background music. The Sands offers a full a la carte menu using local Orkney produce where possible. 
Specialities include scallops, squid and catch of the day.
Skerries Bistro
Serve freshly prepared food and where possible use Orkney produce. During the day, Skerries offer fresh vegetable soup, baked tatties, toasted baguettes, sandwiches and daily main dishes. There are cream teas, desserts, cakes and a variety of teas and coffees. Licensed and with a good range of wine and beers (including Orkney beers).
Attractions
The Orkney Brewery
The Orkney Brewery is housed in the former schoolhouse in Quoyloo 1 mile from Skara Brae in the heart of Neolithic Orkney. The unrushed culture with its traditional values influences the way beer is made here. Undivided attention is given to each stage of the brewing process.
Highland Park Distillery
A tour of this renowned distillery is a wonderful way in which to learn more about the history and traditions of these unique islands. In 2002, the Scottish Tourist Board awarded the distillery their Five Star Award in recognition of its excellent facilities and services.
Scotland's Real Ale Trail
Visitors on the trail will get the opportunity to tour some world-famous breweries to learn more about Scottish real ales and, of course, sample a tasty tipple.
The trail links 23 breweries across Scotland from the Hebridean Brewing Company to Traquair House Brewery in Southern Scotland to The Orkney Brewery in the North.
Follow the links below to view previous articles
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