Papa Westray Travel Guide

Plan the perfect trip to Papa Westray with this guide, including places to visit, hiking routes, activities, food and drink scene, accommodation options, local customs, and more.


Introduction to Papa Westray

Nestled within the Orkney Islands of Scotland, Papa Westray is a small island that boasts breathtaking views and a unique mix of ancient history and modern-day charm. Known as the “Papay” by locals, the island is just three miles long and is home to fewer than 100 residents. Visitors will appreciate the island’s peacefulness and get a glimpse of traditional Scottish life.

List of Places to Visit in Papa Westray

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the main reasons to visit Papa Westray is to explore the island’s rich history. There are several museums and historical sites to visit, such as:

  • Knap of Howar: A Neolithic farmstead that dates back to around 3500 BC, making it one of the oldest standing buildings in northern Europe.
  • St Boniface Kirk: A small, 12th-century church that was renovated in 1901. Visitors can still see the original features, including a rare, Viking-age cross slab.
  • The Old Manse: A 19th-century home that was once the residence of the local Presbyterian minister. Now a museum, visitors can see how the minister and his family lived during that time.

Natural Attractions of Papa Westray: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Papa Westray offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature. Here are a few natural attractions to explore:

  • The Holm of Papay: An uninhabited island that is part of the RSPB reserve, and a nesting ground for puffins, razorbills, and guillemots from late April to early August each year.
  • The North Hill: A scenic hill that runs along the northern edge of the island - offers stunning views of the sea and surrounding islands.
  • The Links of Westray: A stretch of grassy dunes and beautiful white-sand beach - an ideal place to take walks or to have a picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Papa Westray

Hikers and bikers have plenty of routes to choose from on the island. These options provide the chance to step away from the notorious Scottish cold temperatures and to get up close with nature on the isle:

  • North Hill Circular Walk: An hour hike that leads to the North Hill, offering spectacular panoramic views of the sea and surrounding islands.
  • West Side Circular Route: A four-mile tour trail that leads to the striking sandy beaches of the west coast of the island.
  • Papay Heritage Centre Route: A great route taking you around some of the most impressive sights and photo stops on the island, such as the Rose Cottage, and the Knap of Howar.

Best Things to Do in Papa Westray: Activities and Tours

The island caters to people who love the outdoors with various activities on offer, including:

  • Fishing Trips: Visitors can explore the sea surrounding the island by heading out on a fishing trip with one of the island locals.
  • Boat Trip to North Hill: A chance to embark on a boat trip that takes you to the uninhabited island of North Hill for a hike and a picnic with some beautiful views.
  • Whale Watching Tour: Visitors can take a guided ocean tour to see the one of the most prominent sea mammals.
  • Bird Watching: Visitors can spot a broad variety of seabirds on the island, including puffins, fulmars, and guillemots.

Week-Long Itinerary for Papa Westray

Papa Westray is the perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful retreat. Here’s a seven-day itinerary to follow while on the island:

Day Place to Visit Activity
1 Knap of Howar Historical site tour
2 Island Hopping Tour Visit to the uninhabited Holm of Papay
3 West Side Circular Route Hiking
4 St Boniface Kirk Historical site tour
5 North Hill Circular Walk Hiking
6 Fisherman’s Boat Tour A chance to catch fish for dinner.
7 Links of Westray Picnic and beach time

Food and Drink Scene of Papa Westray

The island may be small, but the food scene is mighty. Visitors can enjoy traditional Scottish meals and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bannocks: A traditional Scottish flatbread.
  • Haggis: A savory pudding made with sheep’s organs, spices, and oatmeal.
  • Cullen Skink: A hearty soup made with potatoes and smoked haddock.

Local Beverages

  • Orkney Ales: A collection of exceptional beers that are brewed on the island.
  • Highland Park: A whiskey that is produced in the Orkney Islands.

Where to Stay in Papa Westray: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Papa Westray is a place that tourists predominantly visit as a day trip, but the island offers a variety of hotel and Guesthouse options for those who wish to stay and experience and take in more of the local culture.

  • The Old Manse: A traditional 19th-century home which has been converted into a museum, it also offers guest accommodation to those wishing to stay – for more extended periods.
  • West Side Guesthouse: The family-run Westside Guesthouse offers stunning views of The Westray Firth and the surrounding landscape.
  • Wren’s Nest: A beautiful sandstone traditional home at the back end of Papay which has just recently had a renovation – perfect for couples seeking a secluded getaway.

What to Buy in Papa Westray: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The heritage and beauty of Papa Westray inspires incredible craftsmen and artists. The island provides authentic souvenirs and local products visitors can bring home.

  • Handcrafted pottery at the Papay Potter, made using local materials.
  • Orkney Fudges, an artisan confectionery brand that offers handmade with locally sourced ingredients.
  • Authentically knitted wool-blend pullovers from the Papay Store.

Local Culture and Customs of Papa Westray

The locals of Papa Westray are friendly and proud of their heritage. The island has a strong sense of community and a rich history. As such, visitors must respect local customs and traditions, such as:

  • The locals appreciate visitors taking their shoes off before entering their homes.
  • Respect the locals and their land when hiking or in other activities.
  • Respect the wildlife and birds on the island.

Best Time to Visit Papa Westray

The best time to visit Papa Westray is during the summer months, from May to August when the weather is milder, and the island is full of life. The sea birds, puffins, fulmars, and guillemots, arrive in late April and May and remain until August, making the summer months and birdwatching season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Papa Westray

Do:

  • Respect the island’s history and natural environment.
  • Take your shoes off before entering local homes.
  • Enjoy the local Scottish cuisine and Orkney ales.
  • Make sure you take enough cash, as there is only one cash machine available on the island.
  • Engage with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Pick up pebbles or stones from the historical sites.
  • Leave your trash lying around, please use bins provided, or take them back with you.
  • Disturb the wildlife.
  • Go hiking or biking without informing someone of your plans first.

Safety and Health

Safety in Papa Westray

Papa Westray is a relatively safe place to visit, but visitors must be aware of these safety tips:

  • Always inform someone if you plan to hike or bike around the island.
  • Check the weather before embarking on an outdoor adventure.
  • Watch your step when hiking, as the terrain can be unpredictable.
  • Properly tie yourself when traveling on boats and vessels.

Health in Papa Westray

Papa Westray has a local GP surgery, but visitors must carry comprehensive travel insurance as accidents and emergencies can happen eventually. Mosquitoes and ticks are a menace, so remember to protect yourself with repellant and proper hiking shoes.

Getting to Papa Westray: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Papa Westray

The closest airport to Papa Westray is Orkney’s Kirkwall Airport. Visitors can take a forty-five-minute flight from here to Papa Westray.

Bus Stations Near Papa Westray

There are buses in Orkney, but there are no buses in Papa Westray. Visitors can choose to hire a car or use local taxis to get around and explore.

Other Options

Visitors can take a ferry from Orkney’s main town, Kirkwall, to Papa Westray. It is a 60-minute ferry ride and typically leaves once a day.

How to Get Around in Papa Westray

Papa Westray is a small island, and visitors can explore the island on foot or by bike. Visitors can hire bikes from the Papay Community Co-op, located at the pier.

Where to Go Next from Papa Westray: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can go island hopping and visit the nearby islands of Sanday, Stronsay, and Westray. They can also go on an Orkney Islands tour from Kirkwall by visiting the capital of Orkney or sites on Mainland Orkney, including Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and Maeshowe.

Conclusion

Papa Westray is a hidden gem in Scotland, offering visitors a chance to experience the peace and beauty of Scottish life. This comprehensive guide will help visitors plan their trip to Papa Westray, from day trips to week-long stays. With rich history, stunning nature walks, local dishes, and friendly locals, Papa Westray is a must-visit for any travel enthusiasts.

Knap of Howar Knap of Howar St Boniface's Church St Boniface's Church Papa Westray airport Papa Westray airport