Brough of Birsay Causeway
Start location: carpark opposite Brough Of Birsay (HY 242 283)
End location: Brough of Birsay (HY 242 285)
Geographical area: Orkney Islands
Path Type: Rural Path
Path distance: 14.1km
Accessibility info: Suitable for pedestrians
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Route DescriptionThe Brough of Birsay is a tidal island and can only be accessed by the causeway for two hours either side of low tide.
From the tarmacced Brough of Birsay carpark, this stone and concrete-topped causeway crosses a narrow strand of water and is clear and safe but only at low tide. Safe times between tides are broadcast on local radio daily during the summer months, roughly between clock changes. Currents are very strong here, so crossing or being stranded in bad weather is not recommended. However, the path is well used, especially during the summer.
OS Landranger 6
Heritage Information
There is a long history of habitation at the Brough of Birsay. A 7th and 8th century Pictish settlement is overlain by still visible Viking buildings dating from the 9th century onwards. A monastery was sited on the island in the twelfth century. All these remains are in the care of Historic Scotland.
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