Brough of Birsay
333 Reviews
About the Business
Brough of Birsay | Public Body for Scotland's Historic Environment | Read an overview of the history of the Brough of Birsay and its fascinating remains of Pictish, Norse and medieval life, including houses, barns and a sauna. Contact us today for more information.
Contacts
Call Us
+441856841815
Birsay, Orkney KW17 2LX
Hours
Features
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Good for kids
Recommended Reviews
Alan Aim
19.03.2024
Brough of Birsay
A tidal island, once inhabited by Thorfinn the Mighty, one of the greatest Earls of Orkney from the Viking period who owned earldoms all the way down to Ireland.This is the best place in Orkney to be lucky enough to spot Puffins, and although I've lived a vast chunk of my life in the isles, it was only today that I was blessed to spot one. It gathered quite a crowd of bird watchers.The sea cliff views from the lighthouse side of the island is well worth taking the time to walk about the place.
Frank Stainer
10.03.2024
Brough of Birsay
A great place to visit, just as the tide is going out. You can then walk across the spit to reach the island itself.Once there, make sure you leave enough time to make your return before the tide comes in again.There are some great ruins of St. Peter’s Chapel and it’s Burial grounds, as well as a lighthouse. It is a place we are so looking forward to returning to (sometime in the future).A Beautiful place with some great rock formations all around the area. We would highly recommend you drive up here while on the Island.
David Robertson
03.03.2024
Brough of Birsay
A beautiful island connected by a concrete walkway that can't be crossed at high tide. We waded across 1.5 hours after high tide on a calm day, the water up to our thighs, so don't take chances with rising tides. Loads of nesting seabirds in early summer and stunning cliffs.
Donald MacLeod
17.02.2024
Brough of Birsay
Nice walk to and around the island. Check tide times to make sure the causeway is not under water and you have time to get back.There are Norse ruins as you go onto the island and then there are rough paths that take you round the island. Some of them pass close to the cliff edge so care would have to be taken with children and dogs.
SARAH BANCROFT
24.01.2024
Brough of Birsay
Stunning area to walk.Please check tide times and allow enough time to get back safely.Go out when the tide goes out.Walking boots are a must.Stunning views, cliffs and great for bird watching.Wrap up its gets windy and cold.Stay safe and enjoy.Car park
Joseph Kincaid
17.01.2024
Brough of Birsay
The ruins are worth a look. The fact that it’s tidal makes it special so check the time of the tides before you go so you won’t be disappointed. The view from the lighthouse makes it worth the effort. Take care there is a huge fault line along the seaward side as that part of the cliff is slowly falling into the sea. There are slips with small caves opening up and at the sea there are deep cuts down to the sea below. Worth walking along the north east side to view the cliffs and sea below.
Jaiforce
12.01.2024
Brough of Birsay
I love this place, so much history wrapped up in one place! It really allows the imagination to run wild!
Jelena Finnie
24.12.2023
Brough of Birsay
You can get there when the tide is low. Little village before that has a tiny shop with info on tides and they sell amazing pies
Catherine Cowlishaw
21.12.2023
Brough of Birsay
Superb place to visit. A mixture of Pictish and Viking history, a plethora of seabirds, crashing azure blue waves, cliff top walks, and a lighthouse to boot. Please be mindful to check the tides though - the causeway is only exposed at lower tides. Beautiful area to explore aside from the Brough, with a lovely cliff walk along the coast that forms part of St Magnus Way. The beach is also worth some time, especially if you're hunting the (relatively) elusive cowrie shell.
Robert Rae
19.12.2023
Brough of Birsay
Historically fascinating, and very scenic. Abundant sea birds.
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Birsay, Orkney KW17 2LX
Brough of Birsay