SAIL ACROSS TO SHAPINSAY
Only a 25-minute journey from Kirkwall, the island of Shapinsay is one of the county’s most accessible, thanks to the roll-on, roll-off ferry, which makes up to 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 dovecote, 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 reopened last year after being shut since 2018.
The hub for residents and visitors alike was bought and renovated by the Shapinsay Development Trust, which runs the popular restaurant, café and bar on the premises.
The Smithy also houses the Shapinsay Heritage Centre. Whether researching your family tree, curious about island history or looking for a beautiful handcrafted gift to take home, the 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.
Exploring the island further, you will be treated to 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.
There is 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 Shapinsay, 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 prize-winning 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 takes place on the first Tuesday of August.
Whether you arrive on foot, by bike or by car, and whatever your interests, Shapinsay has so much to offer.
To help visitors explore, Shapinsay Development Trust hire out electric bikes so you can see the whole island in a day; check out their website www.shapinsay.org.uk for details.
There’s also entertainment aplenty for children, thanks to a playpark at Shapinsay Community School, which is open to all.
There’s a trim trail, climbing frames, tunnels and lots of things to keep everyone busy, as well as an accessible toilet opposite the site.