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West Mainland
The West Mainland includes “The Heart of Neolithic
Orkney”, which is a designated World Heritage Site, including
Maeshowe, the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar
and Skara Brae, as well as parts of the surrounding area.
 There is a strong argument for the whole of Orkney to be
a World Heritage Site in view of its unique natural and cultural
heritage. The West Mainland encompasses in a small
and accessible area most of what is best about the archipelago.
The many sites of interest include dramatic coastline such
as at Yesnaby, Marwick Head and the Brough of Birsay as well
as fine beaches like Warebeth, the Bay of Skaill, Birsay,
Aikerness or Waulkmill.
For birdwatchers and botanists, the huge
variety of habitats ensures a wide range of species to see
at any season, while anglers have a choice of several lochs
on which to try their skills and luck. Walkers will
also find a diverse selection of interesting routes, coastal
or inland, easy or more strenuous.
 Apart from the main four archaeological sites, there are
many others dating from the Neolithic to the 20th century. These
include Unstan, Cuween and Wideford Hill cairns, the Broch
of Gurness and many more ruinous brochs as well as Pictish
and Norse remains on the Brough of Birsay.
The Farm Museums at Corrigall and Kirbuster, the Click Mill
and Boardhouse Mill, along with Skaill House, provide an
insight into more recent times. Stromness Museum is
also well worth a visit to see its wide-ranging and interesting
displays.
Orphir, on the south coast of the West Mainland is a complete
contrast to the west coast, with peaceful views over Hoy and
Scapa Flow. Swanbister Bay and Waulkmill Bay have attractive
beaches while the Ward Hill (268m) is the highest on the Mainland.
The Round Kirk was built by Haakon Paulson
about 1122, perhaps in atonement for the murder of his cousin,
Earl Magnus. The nearby Orkneyinga Saga Centre tells the
story of the Earls. |
