CHARMING ISLAND
The green and fertile island of Shapinsay lies only a 25-minute sail from Kirkwall, and is highly accessible, with the roll-on, rolloff ferry making a minimum of six return trips daily.
Approaching Shapinsay across the String — the deep-water entrance to Kirkwall Bay — the view is dominated by the splendour of the Victorian calendar house, Balfour Castle, surrounded by its landscaped gardens and woodland.
To the right lies the uninhabited island of Helliar Holm, with its lighthouse designed by David Stevenson.
As the ferry heads towards Shapinsay pier through Elwick Bay, you will pass the Dishan Tower on the left — a 17th-century stone tower surmounted by a dovecot, known locally as the Douche, and used in the 19th century as a saltwater shower.
Arriving off the ferry, a short stroll up the only street of Orkney’s first planned village brings you to the Smithy, which houses the Shapinsay Heritage Centre.
Whether researching your family tree, curious about island history or looking for a beautiful hand-crafted gift to take home, this centre offers a unique insight into island culture.
Further along the village, you will find the only family-run shop and post office on the island, offering a wide selection of local goods.
Shapinsay is also a fascinating place to visit heather moorland, wetlands, lush green pasture, granite cliffs, sandy beaches, lochs and ayres, combined with species-rich flora and fauna, which contribute to the rich and varied landscape.
As you continue your journey around the island, you will be surrounded by a varied selection of wildlife, which is mostly dominated by birds. A great chance to observe them is at the RSPB Mill Dam Reserve bird hide, a short walk from the pier.
Seals are also a common sight on the coastline surrounding the island, especially in the village area, with frequent sightings of otters, whales and dolphins too.
An attraction of an older vintage is Burroughston Broch. One of Orkney’s finest excavated archaeological examples of an Iron Age site can be found about six miles north of the island’s pier.
Farming has been a way of life in Shapinsay for many generations, and is still thriving today.
The majority of the farms are traditional family-run enterprises, which mainly specialise in prizewinning beef production — some of the best livestock in Scotland.
A great chance to see local farming at its best is at the island’s annual agricultural show, which usually takes place on the island on the first Tuesday of August.
Come and see island life for yourself! Whether you arrive on foot, by bike, or by car, and whatever your interests, Shapinsay has so much to offer.