Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
If you've time to visit only one of Orkney's Northern Islands, make Westray the one. The
largest of the group, it has rolling farmland, handsome sandy beaches, great coastal walks
and several appealing places to stay.
Sights & Activities
NATURE RESERVE
Noup Head
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) reserve at Noup Head, at Westray's
northwestern tip is a dramatic area of sea cliffs with vast numbers of breeding seabirds
from April to July. You can walk to Noup Head along the clifftops from a parking area,
passing the impressive chasm of Ramni Geo, and return via the lighthouse access road (4
miles, allow two to three hours).
HERITAGE CENTRE
Westray Heritage Centre
(
01857-677414;
www.westrayheritage.co.uk
; Pierowall; adult/child £2.50/50p;
11.30am-5pm Mon, 10am-noon & 2-5pm Tue-Sat, 1.30-5.30pm Sun May-Sep)
This has
displays on local history, nature dioramas, and archaeological finds, including the famous
5000-year-old 'Westray Wife'. The sandstone figurine is the oldest depiction of the human
form yet found in Scotland.
CASTLE
Noltland Castle
(
24 hr)
A half-mile west of Pierowall stand the ruins of this tower house, built by Gil-
bert Balfour, aide to Mary, Queen of Scots. The castle bristles with shot holes, part of the
defences of the deceitful Balfour, who plotted to murder Cardinal Beaton and, after being
exiled, the king of Sweden.
Westraak
(
01857-677777;
www.westraak.co.uk
; Quarry Rd, Pierowall)
Runs informative and en-
gaging trips around the island, covering everything from Viking history to puffin mating
habits.
GUIDED TOUR
