LAMBHOLM, GLIMPS HOLM, BURRAY & SOUTH RONALDSAY
Born out of an act of war, the Churchill Barriers are one of Orkney’s most distinctive features. Constructed during the Second World War, when the British Navy was based in Scapa Flow, the barriers were commissioned after a German U-boat entered the harbour, and tragically sunk HMS Royal Oak.
These concrete causeways, known locally as ‘The Barriers’, allow a road to link the southern point of Orkney in South Ronaldsay to Burray, and via the small islands of Glimps Holm and Lambholm, to the Mainland.
The barriers offer a spectacular drive or cycle, and the journey south from the village of St Mary’s is a must for any visitor to the isles.
With ruffled waves of the North Sea on one side, and the calm spread of Scapa Flow on the other, the first isle you come to is Lamb Holm. A tiny island it may be, but it packs a lot of punch for visitors, hosting a small sandy beach, Orkney Wine Company, J. Gow Rum, and the breathtaking Italian Chapel.
Another wonder from the war, it was created by Italian prisoners of war after they were given two Nissan huts to convert into a place of worship.
This basic canvas was turned into incredible art by Domenico Chiocchetti. He first painted the Madonna and Child, and showed such skill that the British Commanding Officer allowed him to continue to decorate the whole chapel.
The resulting wonder — a testament to the power of peace in a time of war — attracts over 100,000 visitors a year.
Across the second barrier is the tiny island of Glimps Holm. Here you will find one of Orkney’s best beaches and top scuba diving spots.
A third barrier takes you to Burray, home to a bustling community. The village has a fine play-park, a pier-side hotel, restaurant and bar. A standout attraction is the Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre with its collection of fossils as well as exhibits detailing the island’s history and experience during the World Wars.
The final barrier has seen a significant build up of sand on its eastern side. Forming a network of beach grass and low dunes, it is home to a variety of seabirds.
South Ronaldsay is Orkney’s fourth largest island and is home to the charming waterfront village of St Margaret’s Hope.
With several shops, two lively bars and a restaurant, “the Hup” as it is known locally, is the base of Pentland Ferries, and many people’s introduction to Orkney.
To the west lies the Sands of Wright, home to the yearly festival of the horse.
Further on you’ll find the spectacular cliffs of Hoxa Head offering a great chance to watch marine life, including orcas and dolphins.
The rest of the island is well worth exploring, for its many beautiful walks, both along the east shore and west, or “back” shore.
The southern tip offers spectacular views out across the tumultuous waters of the Pentland Firth, and across to the Scottish mountains.
The convenience of the barriers allow visitors to base themselves on these islands and still access the Mainland’s attractions. You would be missing out if you did not venture across, and explore this superb corner of Orkney.