On this great beach a wild Atlantic storm Sculptures in stone its huge And wave like form. Robert Rendall.

Westray

Castle O'Burrian rock stack.

Westray can be “done” in a day, either on foot, by bike, car or organised tour. It makes a lovely day out, but much better to take your time of course, and stay a day or two, or a week or two – there is so much to see and do.

The exquisite workmanship and artistic talent of the ancient peoples encountered on other islands is illustrated by the Westray Stone, a rock carving found in a tomb at Pierowall, the island's largest settlement, in 1981. The spiral and lozenge design is the finest of its kind in Scotland and is on display at Tankerness House Museum in Kirkwall (soon to be moved to the Heritage Centre in Pierowall).

Of the earliest Christian settlers the best evidence is again found in the lonely rock-stack or island hermitages such as at the Castle o' Burrian (also a marvelous place to see Puffins) and on the Holms of Aikerness. The Orkneyinga Sagas, the tales of the Viking occupation of Orkney paint a vivid picture of Westray during the early 12th century and Westray families operating from power bases at Rapness, Pierowall and Tuqouy played important roles in the political life of the isles.

Westray has an excellent range of accommodation, a craft trail round the galleries and studios, a not to be missed Heritage Centre, which is next to the hotel in Pierowall (famed for its fish and chips).

Westray also has a four star country house hotel, a four star hostel overlooking Pierowall Bay and a five star hostel at the north end of the West Westray walk, looking out over the cliffs towards Rousay. Pierowall village hosts a brilliant children’s play park, two general stores and another in the south of the island at Skelwick, a swimming pool at the school, a challenging nine-hole golf course, Noltland Castle, and of course the harbour and marina at Gill Pier where there are changing facilities for visiting yachtsmen. Coffee, tea and light snacks are available at the Tourist Information Point opposite Lady Kirk, both hotels, the Haff Yok cafe and the Heritage Centre.

Grobust beach with just one person and their dogs.Westray has two coastal walks and the Westray Walks leaflet describing more walks is available form the Tourist Information Point.

Wildlife abounds with seals, birds, especially puffins between late April and late July, clean sandy beaches where you can catch “spoots” in February and March, or go fishing in the lochs or from the shore.

You may choose to watch the sky which changes with the weather and enjoy the landscape, cliffs and beaches.

Whatever you choose, you will be made very welcome and we know you will be reluctant to leave our island.

Throughout your visit to Westray you’ll be tantalisingly aware, out to the Nor’east, of the coastline, chimney pots and charm of Westray’s magical little sister...