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Graemsay
GRAEMSAY (ON Grims-ey, Grimr's Isle) This small
island lies between Hoy and Stromness and remains completely
unspoilt. It is separated from the Mainland by Hoy Sound
and Hoy by Burra Sound, both of which have strong tides,
and lies at the western entrance to Scapa Flow. There
is a regular ferry service from Stromness by the ferry which
serves Moaness in Hoy. For details of timetables Tel
(01856) 850624.
 In the late 1840s two lighthouses, Hoy High and Hoy Low,
were built to act as leading lights to the western approaches
of Hoy Sound to clear the submerged Bow Rock of Hoy and Kirk
Rocks of the Mainland. At that time there was no pier
on the island, so a slipway was built at the Bay of Sandside. Stone
from the North Isles was cut at the Point of Ness in Stromness
and by 1851 the lights were operational.
Graemsay is quite different to any other island in Orkney
and has a charm all to itself. Covered in wild flowers
in summer, it is a very pleasant stroll on a nice day. The
Bay of Sandside is particularly attractive for a picnic lunch
- and never crowded! In the past many of the Graemsay
men went to sea, but with the demise of the Hudson's Bay
connection, Arctic Whaling and the Iceland Fishery, the population
has now dwindled.
 Hoy Low must be the only lighthouse anywhere
with its own gun battery!
The twin 6-pounder battery, with watch tower and magazine
was installed at the Point of Oxan in 1943, as they were
no longer needed in Burray once the Barriers had reached
sufficient height. Two searchlights were also positioned
there. There are good views of the Hoy Hills and Hoy
Sound from this spot.
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