A result of it’s central position, as one of Orkney’s North Isles, is that a walk on Eday’s heathery moorland (there is less farmland here than on other isles) is extremely rewarding. Stunning views of Eday and the surrounding isles, can be seen everywhere you go.
Sites worth a visit include:
The Stone of Setter – a single gigantic (4.5m) standing stone that resembles a giant hand. The Stone of Setter is covered with lichen and is situated in an atmospheric desolate location.
Carrick House – where Pirate Gow (it’s then owner) was captured in the 18th Century – a stain on the wooden floor is said to be his blood. Opposite Carrick House is the calf of Eday – a small uninhabited island.
Vinquoy Chambered Cairn – a Maeshowe type cairn, over 3m high inside, that overlooks Calf sound.
Mill loch hide – a superb spot to see red throated divers, and other waterfowl.
The Red Head – a dramatic sea cliff at the north of the island. Some of the red sandstone of St Magnus Cathedral was quarried from here.
Map of Eday
Booking a ferry to Orkney directly with NorthLink Ferries on www.northlinkferries.co.uk is cheaper than booking with another website and we never charge for any amendments made to your booking!
Getting to Eday Travel from Scrabster to Stromness with NorthLink Ferres. Once docked, take the A965 for 15 miles to Kirkwall. From there you can either take a North Isles ferry with Orkney Ferries from the harbour front (on Harbour Street) or take an islander plane from Kirkwall Airport (taking the A960 for 4 miles) Alternatively, travel from Aberdeen or Lerwick to Kirkwall with NorthLink Ferries. Once docked at Hatston, turn left at the first junction to head towards Kirkwall town centre. From there you can either take a North Isles ferry with Orkney Ferries from the harbour front (on Harbour Street) or take an islander plane from Kirkwall Airport (taking the A960 for 4 miles).
Top tips • Eday is a superb island for walkers - follow the Eday Heritage Walk to take in all the sights in the North of the island and the Warness Walk to see all the sights of the south. Both are well signposted. • An excellent photo opportunity will present itself when you visit the Eday's airfield - which is named and signposted London Airport.
A result of it’s central position, as one of Orkney’s North Isles, is that a walk on Eday’s heathery moorland (there is less farmland here than on other isles) is extremely rewarding. Stunning views of Eday and the surrounding isles, can be seen everywhere you go.
The Stone of Setter is covered with lichen and is situated in an atmospheric desolate location.
Mill loch hide – a superb spot to see red throated divers, and other waterfowl.
