Brough of Birsay

Brooches, rings and dress pins found on the Brough of Birsay suggest that it was a Pictish power centre.

The Norse settled on the island 200 years later, in the 9th century, but may have lived peacefully alongside the Picts. It’s still possible to make out the remnants of Norse houses, barns and even a sauna! Later, a small church and monastery were built on Birsay.

Today the island is a challenge to get to (via a causeway, only accessible at low tide) but a joy to explore. You can get a unique insight into the peaceful life of the Norse settlers by exploring the remains of their village, then marvel at what's left of the church of St Peter, a sophisticated building that had a square tower and glazed windows. Traces of the Pictish inhabitants can also be seen, along with a replica Pictish symbol stone, a copy of a remarkable carving found here.

After exploring the remains you can take a short stroll to the small lighthouse at the crest of the island, counting the many types of wildflower that grow in the machair (coastal grassland) and maybe even spotting puffins nesting on cliffs in the spring.