Orkney Public Bus Services Move to Winter Timetable

Orkney's public bus timetables will see changes from Monday 27 October 2025 as services return to a winter timetable.

The new Orkney Public Bus Guide for Winter 2025-26 is now available from Kirkwall Travel Centre, Kirkwall Library and Archive, Orkney Ferries offices, Kirkwall Airport, Stromness Terminal Building, Council Offices (Kirkwall and Stromness Warehouse Building) and on board buses.

Digital copies of the new timetables and Guide are available on the Council website at www.orkney.gov.uk/bus

Routes Affected

Three routes will see changes from 27 October:

X1: Stromness – Kirkwall – St Margaret's Hope This commercially operated service returns to a similar timetable as last winter. However, some timing points have been adjusted and passengers are advised to check the new timetable carefully. The summer enhanced service via Stromness and Skara Brae will cease over the winter period.

Service 3: Deerness-Tankerness The 1010 summer trial service from Kirkwall Travel Centre will cease over the winter period.

Service 8S: Quoyloo-Skara Brae Returns to a winter service operating on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays only.

Passengers are reminded that some services and timing points only run during school holidays or on certain days of the week. Please check the colour codes and notes on timetables carefully.

Timetable information on shelters and poles across the Orkney Mainland will be replaced in the coming weeks. Until then, passengers should refer to the Guide or visit www.orkney.gov.uk/bus

For further information or assistance, contact transport@orkney.gov.uk