The Outrun Filming Locations: Discover Orkne's Stunning Landscapes

Exploring The Outrun's Key Orkney Locations: A Film Lover's Guide

If you’ve seen The Outrun, the film adaptation of Amy Liptrot’s powerful memoir, you’ve likely been captivated by the rugged and windswept beauty of the Orkney Islands. The film follows the emotional journey of a woman returning to her childhood home after battling addiction, and the stark, untamed landscapes of Orkney play a significant role in reflecting the film’s themes of recovery, isolation, and healing. The wild cliffs, moorlands, and endless ocean that surround the islands become more than just a backdrop—they are integral to the protagonist’s journey of self-discovery and renewal.

The Story and Its Stars

The Outrun centers on Rona (played by Saoirse Ronan), a young woman who, after a stint in rehab, returns to the remote Orkney Islands where she grew up. Battling feelings of shame, loss, and alienation, Rona reconnects with the landscape of her childhood as she grapples with her past, sobriety, and the difficult task of rebuilding her life. The film, much like the memoir, explores themes of personal growth, resilience, and the healing power of nature.

Saoirse Ronan, known for her compelling performances in Lady Bird and Brooklyn, delivers an emotional portrayal of Rona. Her performance brings to life the raw vulnerability of someone who is both running from her past and searching for solace in the natural beauty of her homeland. Alongside Ronan, the film features a stellar supporting cast, including Paul Mescal (Normal People) as a local farmer who becomes a grounding presence in Rona's life, and Emily Watson, who portrays her estranged mother.

Why Orkney Was Chosen for The Outrun

When the filmmakers began scouting for locations, Orkney was the perfect fit for The Outrun’s narrative. The islands’ remote, windswept landscapes—both stunning and harsh—mirrored the protagonist’s emotional state. Orkney’s natural beauty and isolation became a visual metaphor for Rona’s internal struggle and her need to reconnect with the world and herself.

The rugged cliffs, wide-open skies, and ancient stone formations of Orkney reflect the themes of the film, providing both challenges and opportunities for Rona as she seeks healing. This wild, untamed environment adds a sense of timelessness and raw beauty that heightens the emotional depth of the story.

Key Filming Locations in Orkney

For fans of The Outrun looking to immerse themselves in the film’s setting, here are a few key locations where pivotal scenes were shot:

1. Stromness – A Gateway to the Islands

The town of Stromness, with its narrow streets and stone-built houses, is featured prominently in the film as the main connection between Rona and the outside world. The town's harbor scenes capture the feeling of isolation and the slow rhythm of island life.

• Stromness Pier: Rona is often seen walking along the pier, lost in thought, as she contemplates her path forward. The harbor, with its bobbing fishing boats and misty horizon, is a frequent motif throughout the film, symbolizing both escape and return.
• Ness Battery: The film also shot several scenes at this historical military site, which offers sweeping views of Scapa Flow. The desolate, wind-swept atmosphere of Ness Battery added to the film's contemplative tone, providing a quiet backdrop for moments of introspection.

2. Yesnaby Cliffs – A Symbol of Resilience

The dramatic Yesnaby cliffs, which drop sharply into the North Atlantic, are used throughout the film to symbolize both the peril and beauty of Rona’s journey.

• Yesnaby Stack: A pivotal scene between Rona and a local character is filmed near the famous Yesnaby sea stacks. These towering rock formations are a metaphor for Rona’s own sense of endurance, standing firm despite the relentless pounding of the waves.

3. The Bay of Skaill – A Quiet Place for Reflection

Several key scenes take place along the serene Bay of Skaill, a place where Rona finds moments of peace amid the storm of her emotions. The sweeping beach and gentle waves provide a stark contrast to the harsher landscapes of the cliffs.

• Skaill Beach: This tranquil spot features prominently as Rona walks along the shore, allowing the calm of the sea to soothe her troubled mind. The scenes filmed here highlight the healing power of nature and the beauty of Orkney’s softer landscapes.

4. Birsay and the Brough of Birsay – A Journey to the Past

In Birsay, Rona reconnects with her childhood memories and the ancient roots of the island. The Brough of Birsay, a tidal island only accessible at low tide, becomes a symbolic location in the film, representing both isolation and discovery.

• Brough of Birsay: Several emotional scenes take place here as Rona explores the ancient ruins and reflects on her past. The physical act of crossing to the island mirrors her emotional journey of confronting her history and finding closure.

Filming Anecdotes from Orkney

The production of The Outrun was filled with unique challenges and memorable moments as the cast and crew adapted to the wild and unpredictable Orkney weather.

• Weather’s Unpredictability: The cast experienced firsthand the infamous Orkney weather, with sudden shifts from sunshine to gale-force winds. During one scene shot near the cliffs of Yesnaby, the crew had to halt filming multiple times due to fierce gusts of wind, adding an authentic intensity to the final cut.
• Local Wildlife Cameos: In one scene filmed near Stromness, a herd of curious seals unexpectedly appeared just offshore, adding a spontaneous and charming touch to the shot. Though not originally in the script, the director decided to keep the seals in the final cut, as they perfectly mirrored the film's theme of nature’s quiet, healing presence.
• Community Involvement: The Orkney locals warmly welcomed the crew, with many residents volunteering as extras in background scenes. One local fisherman even offered the use of his boat for a key sequence in the harbor. This collaboration lent the film an added layer of authenticity and connection to the community.
• A Special Thanks to Orkney's Landmarks: Some of the island’s oldest features, like the ancient standing stones of Brodgar, were incorporated into the film’s visual storytelling. The film’s director shared that after every shoot near these sites, the crew would leave small offerings of thanks—an homage to the island’s deep history and local customs.

Explore Orkney Like The Outrun Protagonist

If The Outrun has left you longing to explore the remote beauty of Orkney, here’s how you can follow in the protagonist’s footsteps and immerse yourself in the island’s landscapes:

• Hike the Yesnaby Cliffs: Channel your inner resilience and take a walk along these stunning cliffs. With the crashing waves below and vast skies above, it’s an awe-inspiring experience.
• Visit the Bay of Skaill: Find peace along the shores of Skaill Beach, where the gentle waves and expansive sea views invite quiet reflection.
• Cross to the Brough of Birsay: Time your visit with low tide and explore this tidal island, walking among the ruins that inspired key moments in the film.

Orkney’s role in The Outrun is more than just a location—it becomes a vital part of the story, offering both challenge and solace to those who seek it. Whether you’re a fan of the film or simply looking for a place to reconnect with nature, Orkney’s wild beauty will leave an indelible mark on your soul.