Orkney Islands in November

May through September offers the warmest weather and longest days, with midsummer bringing nearly 19 hours of daylight. But here's the thing about Orkney weather – it's unpredictable any time of year. July might give you 70°F sunshine one day and 50°F rain the next. The shoulder months of May and September often provide the best balance of decent weather and fewer tourists. Summer brings puffins to the cliffs of Westray and Papa Westray, along with cruise ship passengers who descend on Kirkwall for a few hours before disappearing again. Winter has its own stark beauty – dramatic storms, aurora displays, and the kind of solitude that makes you understand why ancient people built stone circles here. The archaeological sites stay open year-round, and winter light can be magical for photography. Spring arrives late but brings carpets of wildflowers and the return of seabirds to the cliffs. Locals will tell you there's no bad time to visit, just different kinds of weather. Pack layers regardless of when you come, and always bring waterproof gear.