Eday Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, transportation options, and nearby destinations of Eday in Orkney Islands, Scotland.


Introduction to Eday

Eday is one of the Orkney Islands, located off the northeastern coast of Scotland, in the United Kingdom. It is a remote, rugged, and unspoiled island, offering visitors an authentic experience of Scottish life and nature.

Eday is known for its stunning views, pristine beaches, wildlife, and rich history. The island is home to several ancient sites, such as the St. Magnus Church, the Braeside standing stone, and the Stone of Setter. Eday also has a vibrant community and a welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the island’s culture and history, or just want to relax and enjoy the natural beauty, Eday has something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive tour guide to help you plan your trip to Eday.

List of Places to Visit in Eday

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St. Magnus Church: This 12th-century church is one of the oldest and most important buildings on the island. It is dedicated to St. Magnus, the patron saint of Orkney, and is an excellent example of Norman architecture.
  • Braeside standing stone: This ancient standing stone is one of the largest in Orkney and is believed to be over 4,000 years old. It is located near the Loch of Stenness, a popular fishing spot on the island.
  • Stone of Setter: This Pictish stone is inscribed with various symbols and is thought to date back to the 7th or 8th century. It is located near the village of Setter and is a popular site for tourists.

Natural Attractions of Eday: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Calf of Eday: This small island is located just off the coast of Eday and is home to a thriving colony of seabirds, such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. It is a popular destination for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.
  • Eday Heritage Walk: This 6-mile circular walk takes you through some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes, including beaches, cliffs, and moorland. It also passes by several historic sites, such as the St. Magnus Church and the Braeside standing stone.
  • Rackwick Bay: This secluded, sandy beach is located on the northwest coast of the island and offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and hills. It is a popular spot for picnics, surfers, and wildlife watchers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eday

Eday has several hiking and biking routes that offer visitors the opportunity to explore the island’s natural beauty:

  • Eday Heritage Walk: This 6-mile circular walk takes you through some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes, including beaches, cliffs, and moorland.
  • Calf of Eday Walk: This short walk takes you to the coast of the island, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Calf of Eday and the surrounding sea.
  • West Coast Circular Bike Route: This 18-mile bike route takes you along the west coast of the island, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Eday: Activities and Tours

  • Bird Watching: Eday is home to a wide variety of seabirds, such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, as well as birds of prey, such as hen harriers and short-eared owls. There are many excellent spots on the island for bird watching, including the Calf of Eday, the cliffs of the west coast, and the moorland in the center of the island.
  • Fishing: Eday has many excellent spots for fishing, both in the sea and in several freshwater lochs. Species that can be caught include mackerel, haddock, cod, trout, and salmon.
  • Kayaking: Eday’s coastal waters are perfect for kayaking, with calm bays, rocky islands, and sea caves to explore. There are several local companies that offer kayaking tours and equipment rental.
  • Orkney Island Tours: To get a sense of the wider Orkney Islands, consider taking a day tour of some of the other islands, such as the Mainland, Hoy, or Rousay. Many of these tours include transport, lunch, and a guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eday

Day 1: Arrive on Eday and settle in at your accommodation. Take a walk around the local area and enjoy some of the island’s stunning scenery.

Day 2: Explore the island’s history and culture by visiting St. Magnus Church, the Braeside standing stone, and the Stone of Setter.

Day 3: Take a day trip to the Calf of Eday to see the island’s seabird colony and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding sea.

Day 4: Take a fishing tour and try your luck at catching some of the local species.

Day 5: Rent a kayak and explore the island’s coastal waters, with its bays, caves, and islands.

Day 6: Take a tour of some of the nearby Orkney Islands, such as the Mainland, Hoy, or Rousay.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy your last day on the island. Take a walk on one of the island’s beautiful beaches, such as Rackwick Bay, and enjoy some of the local food and drink.

Food and Drink Scene of Eday

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fresh Seafood: Eday is known for its fresh seafood, and there are several local restaurants and pubs that serve up dishes such as crab, lobster, and herring.
  • Orkney Cheese: Orkney Cheese is a renowned cheese made on the nearby island of Mainland. It is a delicious and creamy cheese that is perfect on its own or in a sandwich.
  • Scottish Porridge: A hearty and nutritious breakfast dish, porridge is a staple of Scottish cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Orkney Wine: Orkney Wine is a local wine made from locally grown berries, such as blackcurrants and raspberries.
  • Whisky: Scotland is famous for its whisky, and there are several local distilleries in Orkney that produce high-quality whisky, such as Highland Park and Scapa.

Where to Stay in Eday: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eday has several accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are a few recommendations:

  • The Eday Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of the island and offers comfortable rooms and excellent food and drink.
  • The Nomad Hostel: This hostel is located near the coast and offers affordable and comfortable accommodation for budget travelers.
  • The Eday Community Campsite: This campsite is located on the west coast of the island and offers stunning views and excellent facilities for campers and motorhomes.

What to Buy in Eday: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Orkney Cheese: Orkney Cheese is a delicious and creamy cheese that is perfect for taking home as a souvenir or gift.
  • Orkney Wine: Orkney Wine is a unique and tasty wine made from locally grown berries, such as blackcurrants and raspberries.
  • Handmade Crafts: Eday has a vibrant arts and crafts scene, with many local artisans producing beautiful and unique items, such as pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Eday

Eday has a rich and unique culture, shaped by its history, geography, and community. Some of the local customs and traditions include:

  • The Eday Show: This annual show, held in August, is a celebration of the island’s culture and community, with events such as livestock shows, craft fairs, and live music.
  • Orkney Folk Festival: This annual festival, held in May, is a celebration of traditional Scottish music and culture, with performances from local and international artists.
  • Island Hospitality: Eday has a strong sense of community and hospitality, with locals often welcoming visitors and offering advice and assistance.

Best Time to Visit Eday

The best time to visit Eday is in the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and the days are long. This is also the peak tourist season, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices. The shoulder seasons, April-May and September-October, offer slightly cooler weather and fewer crowds, but some tourist attractions may have limited hours or be closed.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eday

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Appreciate the island’s natural beauty and wildlife.
  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Support local businesses and artisans.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disturb the local wildlife.
  • Ignore local rules and regulations.
  • Be rude or disrespectful to locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eday

Eday is a safe and friendly place, but visitors should take common-sense precautions, such as locking their accommodation and not leaving valuables unattended. Visitors should also be aware of the weather conditions and take appropriate clothing and equipment for hiking and outdoor activities.

Health in Eday

Eday has a small medical facility, but visitors with serious health issues may need to be transported to the mainland for treatment. Visitors should also be aware of the risks of tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease, when hiking or camping on the island.

Getting to Eday: Transportation Options and Logistics

Eday is a remote island, but it is still accessible by several transportation options:

Airports Near Eday

  • Kirkwall Airport: This is the nearest airport to Eday, located on the nearby island of Mainland. There are daily flights to Kirkwall from several UK cities, such as Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Inverness.

Bus Stations Near Eday

  • Kirkwall Bus Station: This is the nearest bus station to Eday, located on the nearby island of Mainland. There are regular bus services from Kirkwall to the ferry terminal at Tingwall.

Other Options

  • Ferry: Visitors can also reach Eday by taking a ferry from the mainland to the ferry terminal at Tingwall, on the island of Mainland. From Tingwall, it is a short ferry ride to Eday.

How to Get Around in Eday

Eday is a small island, so it is easy to get around on foot, by bike, or by car. There is also a local bus service that runs to most parts of the island.

Where to Go Next from Eday: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Eday is part of the wider Orkney Islands, which offer many additional destinations for visitors to explore. Here are a few recommendations:

  • The Mainland: The largest island in the archipelago, the Mainland is home to several historic sites, such as the Skara Brae Prehistoric Village and the Ring of Brodgar.
  • Hoy: This rugged and remote island is known for its dramatic landscapes, including the sea stacks of the Old Man of Hoy.
  • Rousay: This small island is known for its archaeological sites, such as the Midhowe Broch and the Taversoe Tuick.
  • Shetland Islands: Located to the north of Orkney, the Shetland Islands offer some of the most remote and stunning landscapes in the UK, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and boating.

Conclusion

Eday is a wonderful destination for travelers looking to experience the natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture of Scotland’s Orkney Islands. With its stunning scenery, warm hospitality, and wide range of activities and attractions, Eday is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the UK.

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