Eynhallow Church
Eynhallow Church hero image gallery
Eynhallow is an important place in Norse folklore, said to be the home of the finfolk - sea creatures who can shapeshift.
The site is currently closed while we carry out vital conservation work.
The ruins of the Norse church were discovered by accident in 1851. The landlord, David Balfour, demolished four thatched cottages following an outbreak of fever and evicted the survivors. Nobody has lived on the island since.
The church had previously been adapted and used as a home. Its original purpose only became clear once the thatched roof was lost. Based on place name evidence, it may have been the site of a monastic church in the 1100s, but we can't be sure.
The Orkneyinga Saga tells describes the kidnap here in 1155 of Olaf, the foster son of Kolbein Hruga of Wyre, who built Cubbie Roo’s Castle.
Eynhallow can only be reached by private boat from Rousay or Orkney Mainland.
Historic places nearby
Midhowe Broch
Visit a fortified Iron Age settlement dramatically positioned above the coast.
2 miles
Broch of Gurness
Explore Broch of Gurness: an impressive Iron Age complex, and an icon of Orkney’s rich archaeological heritage.
2 miles
Knowe of Yarso Chambered Cairn
This ancient structure on the island of Rousay, Orkney, was used for communal burial some 5,000 years ago.
3 miles
Blackhammer Chambered Cairn
Enter the chamber of a 5,000-year-old burial monument on the small Orcadian island of Rousay.
4 miles
Taversöe Tuick Chambered Cairn
Explore three tombs in one at this unusual Neolithic chambered cairn.
5 miles
Dounby Click Mill
Admire the charm and craftsmanship of a fully-restored early 1800s water mill.
5 miles
