Attractions and Places To See around Birsay - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Birsay, a village on the north coast of Orkney Mainland, offer a rich array of historical sites and dramatic natural landscapes. The area is characterized by its coastal features, including tidal islands and rugged cliffs, alongside significant archaeological remains. Visitors can explore ancient settlements and monuments that reflect thousands of years of history. The natural environment also provides opportunities for observing diverse wildlife and enjoying scenic views.
Best attractions and places to see around Birsay
- The most popular attractions is Ring of Brodgar, a historical site that is part of the Neolithic World Heritage site on Orkney. This ring of stones once included 60 stones, with 36 still surviving, thought to have been created about 5000 years ago. It is a ceremonial ring and stone circle located on a narrow isthmus between the Loch of Stenness and the Loch of Harray.
- Another must-see spot is Skara Brae Neolithic Village, a historical site. It is considered the best preserved Neolithic settlement in Europe. The ruins show how people lived 5,000 years ago, with eight houses discovered under a dune in 1850.
- Visitors also love Standing Stones of Stenness, a historical site. This henge stone circle monument dates from the Neolithic Age. This site is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Birsay is known for its historical sites, natural features, and cultural points of interest. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient settlements to coastal landscapes and local crafts.
- The attractions around Birsay are appreciated by the komoot community, with 122 upvotes and 141 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Ring of Brodgar
Highlight • Historical Site
The nearby Standing Stones of Stenness are also worth a visit.
Both are now managed by Historic Environment Scotland.
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Standing Stones of Stenness
Highlight • Historical Site
The name Stones of Stenness is derived from the Old Norse Steinn-nes, a stone elevation in the landscape. In the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, this stone circle was also referred to by the most likely romanticized term Temple of the Moon. The oldest known written reference comes from Martin Martin in 1716. In 1841 this term was still in use locally. The Temple of the Sun was used for the Ring of Brodgar.
(Wikipedia)
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Skara Brae Neolithic Village
Highlight • Historical Site
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Yesnaby Castle Sea Stack
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Barnhouse Neolithic Settlement
Highlight • Monument
The settlement of Barnhouse dates from the period 3300-3100 BC. to 2800-2600 B.C. and was thus founded slightly earlier than the similar settlement of Skara Brae. Barnhouse fell into disuse some 450 years before the creation of Skara Brae. Evidence has been found that the buildings of the settlement were then destroyed.
The settlement of Barnhouse was discovered in 1984 and archaeologically surveyed by Colin Richards in the period 1985-1988. Barnhouse is named after the nearby farm of this name.
After the excavations, a small part of the settlement has been reconstructed in the form of a number of low walls that indicate the outlines of the buildings.
(Wikipedia)
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Tips from the Community
"Orkney is an archipelago between the North Sea and the Atlantic, about 10 miles north of the Scottish mainland. Treeless pastures and farmland, green almost everywhere, crisscrossed by blue fjords, framed by sharp-edged cliffs and steep coastlines. 29 of the 77 islands are inhabited. The first settlers arrived in the Neolithic period. They, too, were farmers. They left no written records, but they did leave behind tools, dwellings, ceremonial sites, and graves in abundance unmatched anywhere else in Europe. Orkney's most famous Neolithic monument is the Ring of Brodgar, a stone circle as old as the Egyptian pyramids." This is what it says on the ARD Mediathek website. The film contribution corresponding to the highlight (in German) can be found under the following link =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/die-jungsteinzeitlichen-monumente-auf-den-orkney-inseln-gb-folge-247/3sat/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS82OTIwMDQ0
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Very well preserved houses from the Stone Age, an original manor house, black cattle, the sea and lush green of a barren landscape.
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This is a real highlight. A visit here is definitely worth it!
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The Ring of Brodgar is a henge in the British Orkney Islands with a circular stone setting inside. With a diameter of 104 m, it is larger than Stonehenge. Of the original 60 stones, 27 remain. It was probably built in 2700 BC. Admission is free. Parking is available on site.
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Once you are at the Stones of Stenness, it is only a 5 minute walk to the Barnhouse.
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Worth seeing and only 15 minutes from the parking lot.
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Parking is free. The visitor center also has a café, a well-stocked souvenir shop and toilets.
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Unique, well-preserved Neolithic settlement with a nice visitor center.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Birsay?
Birsay is rich in history. You can visit the Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness, both part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss the Skara Brae Neolithic Village, considered Europe's best-preserved Neolithic settlement. Other significant sites include the tidal island of Brough of Birsay with Pictish and Norse remains, the ruins of Earl's Palace, and the Kitchener Memorial at Marwick Head.
How can I visit the Brough of Birsay, and what should I know about tide times?
The Brough of Birsay is a tidal island accessible via a causeway at low tide. It's crucial to check local tide times before planning your visit to ensure safe passage to and from the island. Once there, you can explore Pictish and Norse settlements, a 12th-century church, and a lighthouse.
What natural features and wildlife can I experience in Birsay?
The Birsay area offers dramatic coastal scenery and abundant wildlife. You can explore Skipi Geo, known for its rugged beauty and seals, or Marwick Head for panoramic views. The Birsay Moors Nature Reserve is an internationally important site for breeding birds like Hen Harriers and Red-throated Divers. During summer, the Brough of Birsay is excellent for spotting puffins, and its rock pools teem with marine life.
Are there easy or family-friendly walks available around Birsay?
Yes, Birsay offers several easy and family-friendly walking routes. For example, the Marwick Head and Kitchener Memorial Trail is an easy 4.4 km loop. Another option is the Brough of Birsay Causeway – Earl's Palace Birsay loop, which is around 7.2 km and also considered easy. You can find more easy hikes at Easy hikes around Birsay.
What are some popular walking routes around Birsay?
Popular walking routes include the Brough of Birsay and Earl's Palace loop, a moderate 11 km hike. The Marwick Head and Kitchener Memorial Trail is a shorter, easy 4.4 km option offering coastal views. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Birsay guide.
Are there any cultural or unique local attractions in Birsay?
Beyond historical sites, Birsay has unique cultural attractions. The Barony Mill is the last working water mill on Orkney, producing traditional beremeal flour, and offers guided tours. Kirbuster Farm Museum provides a glimpse into 19th and early 20th-century island farm life, featuring a traditional 'firehoose'. You can also visit Orkneyinga Silversmiths for locally inspired jewelry or Swannay Brewery for award-winning ales.
What kind of wildlife can I spot around Birsay, and when is the best time to see them?
Birsay is excellent for wildlife spotting. You can see seabirds like puffins, razorbills, gannets, and shags, especially during the nesting season from April to July. The Birsay Moors Nature Reserve is home to Hen Harriers, Red-throated Divers, and Short-eared Owls. Seals are often seen along the coast, particularly at Skipi Geo. Summer months generally offer the best opportunities for birdwatching.
Are there cycling routes available near Birsay's attractions?
Yes, there are several road cycling routes that allow you to explore the wider Birsay area and its attractions. Routes like the Ring of Brodgar – Standing Stones of Stenness loop from Finstown (51.9 km) offer scenic rides past significant historical sites. You can find more options in the Road Cycling Routes around Birsay guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Birsay?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich historical significance of sites like the Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae Neolithic Village, often highlighting their well-preserved nature and the insight they offer into ancient life. The dramatic coastal landscapes, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and the sense of stepping back in time are also frequently mentioned as highlights.
Are the historical sites around Birsay accessible for all visitors?
Accessibility varies by site. Many historical sites like the Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness are open-air and involve walking on uneven terrain. The Brough of Birsay is a tidal island accessed via a causeway, which may not be suitable for everyone. It's advisable to check specific site information for detailed accessibility guidance before your visit.
Where can I find the best viewpoints for coastal scenery in Birsay?
Marwick Head offers panoramic coastal views and is home to the Kitchener Memorial. The Brough of Birsay, with its lighthouse, also provides stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Skipi Geo is another scenic coastal inlet known for its rugged beauty and dramatic cliffs.
Most popular attractions around Birsay
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