Beautiful Westray is one of the larger north Orkney islands, often described as the 'Queen of the North isles' with wide sandy beaches, rugged cliffs and a strong traditional farming community.
The main village is Pierowall, a fishing and ferry port with shops and amenities serving the whole island. There is an interesting local heritage centre with displays on the local natural and human history, and the great number of archaeological sites on Westray. Close by is the ruined 16th century Noltland Castle.
A highlight from prehistory is the ancient settlement of the Knap of Howar, found on the small neighbouring island of Papa Westray. This small isle also has a huge chambered cairn called the Holm of Papay and many other interesting historic sites.
The spectacular sea cliffs and rock stack formations are home to many thousands of seabirds, Orkney's largest colony, and in the west of the island form the RSPB Noup Cliffs reserve. The wide range of bird species breeding here include guillemots, gannets, puffins and kittiwakes.
Southcairn Holm of Papa Westray, Westray
Huge Neolithic tomb on the uninhabited Holm of Papa Westray. Southcairn information
RSPB Noup Cliffs, Westray
Spectacular cliffs and thousands of seabirds. RSPB Noup Cliffs information
Noltland Castle Pierowall, Westray
Imposing 16th century ruin. Noltland Castle information
Wheeling Steen Gallery Biggings, Westray KW17 2DN
Arts, crafts and teashop. Wheeling Steen Gallery information
Westray Gallery Pierowall, Westray KW17 2BZ
Local contemporary artwork. Westray Gallery information
Westray Heritage Centre Pierowall, Westray KW17 2BZ
Good local history exhibition. Westray Heritage Centre information
Knap of Howar Papa Westray, Westray
the oldest standing houses in north-west Europe. Knap of Howar information
Explore the island coastline
Towns Near Westray To Visit - straight line distance:
Rousay Tourist Information (10.03 miles) Eday Tourist Information (11.10 miles) Shapinsay Tourist Information (18.13 miles) Orkney Mainland Tourist Information (18.75 miles)