Attractions and Places To See around Shapinsay - Top 20

Shapinsay offers a rich history to explore. You can visit the ancient standing stone known as The Mor Stein, or delve into the past at Burroughston Broch, a well-preserved Iron Age settlement. While Balfour Castle is a private residence, tours can sometimes be arranged. Don't miss the unique Dishan Tower, originally a dovecote, or the archaeological site of Castle Bloody. For a deeper dive into the island's heritage, the Shapinsay Heritage Centre provides exhibits on local history.

Yes, Shapinsay boasts diverse natural features and wildlife. The RSPB Mill Dam Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for birdwatching, with a hide to observe various wildfowl and waders. The island's coastline features impressive sandstone cliffs, sea stacks, arches, and geos. Keep an eye out for otters at the Ouse, Lairo Water, and Vasa Loch, and common and Atlantic grey seals along the coast.

Shapinsay has several lovely sandy beaches. Popular choices include Skenstoft, known for its shallowness and rockpools, and Sandgarth, which faces the Orkney mainland and is good for paddling. Ness Beach, at the north end of the island, also offers a beautiful sandy expanse. You might even spot seals hauled out on the rocks along the shore.

To understand Shapinsay's culture, visit the Shapinsay Heritage Centre in Balfour village, which showcases the island's history through artifacts and interactive displays. The village itself, Balfour Village, is a planned Victorian settlement retaining much of its original character. You can also discover local artists and craftspeople, with some studios welcoming visitors, and find locally-made goods at the Heritage Centre's craft shop.

Shapinsay offers several family-friendly options. Exploring the beaches like Skenstoft with its rockpools can be fun for children. The Shapinsay Heritage Centre provides engaging exhibits for all ages. Additionally, the island's low-lying landscape and quiet roads make it ideal for family walks or cycling, with e-bike rentals available from the Shapinsay Development Trust.

Near Shapinsay, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. For hiking, consider the Shapinsay loop, a moderate 12.4 km trail. If you prefer road cycling, routes like the Earl's Palace, Kirkwall – St Magnus Cathedral loop from Kirkwall offer scenic rides. Runners can find trails such as The Crantit Trail – Scapa Beach loop from Kirkwall. These activities allow you to experience the island's natural beauty.

The main hub for amenities on Shapinsay is Balfour Village. Here, you'll find The Smithy Café & Restaurant, a community-owned establishment offering meals, snacks, and refreshments. This is the primary place to stop for food and drink while exploring the island.

Shapinsay's low-lying landscape and well-maintained roads make it an excellent place to explore on foot or by bicycle. The Shapinsay Development Trust offers e-bike rentals, providing a convenient way to discover the island's quiet corners and attractions at your own pace.

Yes, the island's sandstone cliffs have been dramatically sculpted by erosion. You can observe impressive sea stacks, arches, and geos (narrow inlets). Notable examples include the Geo of Ork at the northernmost tip and the Foot of Shapinsay, which features three sandstone columns arching into the sea.

The well-preserved World War II Coastal Batteries and infrastructure at Garth, on the northwest point of Shapinsay, highlight the island's strategic importance during both World Wars. They formed part of the defensive circle around Scapa Flow, offering a glimpse into the island's military history.

The East Hill represents the largest remaining expanse of heathland on Shapinsay. It is an important habitat for breeding moorland birds and wildfowl, and is characterized by its lichen-rich heath, contributing significantly to the island's biodiversity.

Balfour Castle is a prominent Victorian Scottish Baronial style mansion on Shapinsay. While it is now a private residence and operates as a hotel, tours of the castle and its gardens can often be arranged in advance, sometimes as part of a half-day tour from Kirkwall. It's advisable to check availability beforehand.