Head up to the viewpoint on Lyrawa Hill before descending over heather moorland to the WWII anti-aircraft battery at Scad Head, now a peaceful spot to watch wildlife. The walk then follows the route of a WWII railway uphill to return steeply to the start.
Bog Factor
Moorland path, rough underfoot in places.
Layby for Betty Corrigal's grave on B9047.
None to start.
ND280997
The start is a layby just south of the Water of Hoy 7.5km south from Moaness pier or 8.5km north from Lyness. Start by taking the short boardwalk path to visit Betty Corrigall's grave. Buried here in unconsecrated ground in the late 1770's, Betty had committed suicide having found herself unmarried and pregnant. In 1933 her coffin was unearthed by peat cutters and her body found to have been preserved by the peat. Later the grave was again disturbed by peat cutters and then by curious soldiers stationed on the island which resulted in the grave being moved and concreted over, the headstone was added many years later. Return to the road, turn left for a short time before turning right up a track signed Lyrawa Hill.
At the top is a viewpoint with interpretation board and good views over Scapa Flow. This is the site of a WWII heavy anti-aircraft battery, part of 120 guns installed to protect the Fleet anchorage. These guns created a barrage firing over 1800 shells in 3 minutes and creating a barrier of exploding shells and metal debris through which any attacking aircraft would have to fly. From here take the signed path heading north downhill past the buildings and onto the heathery path beyond.
Take care to stay on the path as it traverses the side of the hill eventually meeting the route of an incline railway used in WWII to carry supplies down to the Battery at Scad Head. Turn right here to head directly downhill to the coast. Before the shore and buildings are reached branch right onto a faint path which heads directly to the lookout tower at the point.
Once at the headland the gun emplacement, battery observation post, engine room and searchlight positions can be seen. On a good day it's also a good spot to watch for shags and guillemots who feed on the shore and grey seals which breed here in November.
To return retrace the route back to the bottom of the remains of the two foot gauge incline railway and follow it uphill - some of the rails and winding wheel can still be seen. The steep climb soon brings you up to the road, turn left here to return to the start.
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