Papa Westray - the island circuit

Summary

Papa Westray is one of the smaller and more remote islands of Orkney, but it is packed with interest. This full coastal circuit of the island takes in northern Europe's oldest standing house, one of northern Scotland's most ancient churches, sandy beaches, rocky cliffs and spectacular colonies of seabirds. The walk be can shortened by cutting across the island at several points. In the summer months there are several ferries a day to Moclett Pier from Gill Pier near Pierowall on Westray, enabling the walk to be done in a day visit from the larger nearby island. Out of season there are fewer ferries and a day visit may be reliant on using a flight between the two islands - the shortest in the world.

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Grade (key)

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Bog Factor (key)

  • 5/5

Rating

Terrain

Mostly grassy coastal path, faint in places but all fences have stiles. Some rougher sections.

Public Transport

Papa Westray can be reached by ferry or air.

Start

Moclett ferry pier. Open in Google Maps.

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