If you’re looking to tick all your Orkney boxes in a single visit then a trip to Eday could be the best decision you make. It’s an island with a little bit of everything, from sweeping sand to heather-clad moors.
There are also some unique and fascinating sites to explore. Here are our favourite things to see and do during a day or two in Eday.
Neolithic adventures
Like much of Orkney, Eday has its own collection of ancient attractions that offer a glimpse into the past, with the bulk of them found at the north end of the island.
The Stone of Setter is one of the largest monoliths in Orkney, standing at around four metres tall. It’s covered in lichen and moss, with thousands of years of Orcadian weather giving it a well-worn appearance.
Head northwest from here and you’ll come across Vinquoy Chambered Cairn. Found on Vinquoy Hill, with its fabulous panoramic views, this Neolithic cairn was first excavated in the 1850s. It’s a smaller version of Maeshowe and is made from Eday’s distinctive red sandstone. Remember to bring a torch if you’re planning a visit.
Both these sites can be found on the Eday Heritage Trail, which also passes by the remains of the Braeside and Huntersquoy cairns.
Beach days
The centre of Eday pinches together with beautiful beaches either side of the isthmus, providing plenty of choice if you want to spend a day on the sand.
On the east coast, the Bay of London is home to a small beach backed by dunes. At low tide there is plenty of sand to explore here. Over on the west coast, the twin beaches at Mussetter and Doomy offer fabulous views towards Faray and Westray.
And if that’s not enough, continue on the coast north to discover the hidden cove at the Bay of Doomy.
Island life
Many visitors to Orkney’s islands are researching their family trees, looking into Orcadian links from years gone by. Local heritage centres are the ideal place to discover details of these long-lost connections, and Eday is no exception.
The community’s heritage centre is housed in the island’s old Baptist kirk and recently underwent a refurbishment, with new displays and interpretation added. The focus is on the history of the island, with information on its economy, archaeology, and its new role in Orkney’s green energy industry.
There is also a space dedicated to those investigating their family history, with census and property details on hand.
Wildlife watching
Eday’s natural world is something special and its mix of habitats means there’s always something to see.
Mill Loch in the north end is one of the UK’s most important breeding sites for beautiful red-throated divers and you’ll spot plenty of other species here. The island’s vast moorland is home to short-eared owls, hen harriers and other birds of prey.
In the water, keep your eyes peeled for orca passing by, and seals are often hauled out at Seal Skerry, close to EMEC’s base on the west coast, and at the Bay of Greentoft on the south coast. Otters often make an appearance around the coastline too, and there are wildflowers to enjoy when you’re walking or cycling around the island.
Das boot!
If you’ve ever wanted to visit the full-size replica of sections of a submarine then, to the surprise of most people, Eday is the place to go.
Former submarine mechanic and island resident, Mike Illett, has built a collection of replica components of submarine, HMS Otter, in the classroom at the former school where he lives. You can see the control room, engine room, and living space, and Mike has even collected the original toilets from a submarine that served in the Falklands War.
If you’d like to visit then you’ll find Mike more than happy to show you around. Just knock on the door or give him a call first on 01857 622 225 to make sure he’s home.