Historic Causeway on A961, Burray, Orkney

Historic WWII causeway built by Italian POWs, linking Orkney islands with stunning coastal views and rich heritage.

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The Causeway on the A961 in Burray, Orkney, is a remarkable historic structure built by Italian prisoners of war. This causeway connects parts of the Orkney Islands, traversing tidal flats and offering scenic views of the surrounding coastal landscape. It serves as a vital link for local transport and a point of interest for visitors exploring Orkney's rich heritage and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Causeway

A961, GB
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit during calm weather for the best views and safer travel across the causeway.
Combine your visit with the nearby Orkney Fossil and Heritage Centre to deepen your understanding of local history.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching along the tidal flats surrounding the causeway.
Respect the natural environment by staying on designated paths and avoiding disturbance to wildlife.

Getting There

Car

Driving from Kirkwall, the main town of Orkney Mainland, takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes via the A961 road. The route is straightforward but narrow in places, with limited parking near the causeway. No tolls apply.
Bus

Local bus services run along the A961 connecting Kirkwall to South Ronaldsay and Burray, with stops near the causeway. Buses operate several times daily, journey times around 30 to 45 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £3 to £5 one way.
Bicycle

Cycling the causeway is popular among visitors seeking scenic views and fresh air. The terrain is flat and accessible, with the causeway forming part of local cycling routes. Weather conditions can be windy, so appropriate clothing is advised.

Causeway location weather suitability

Any Weather
Windy Conditions
Rain / Wet Weather
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Causeway

A Link Across the Tides

The Causeway on the A961 is a vital and historic roadway in the Orkney Islands, connecting the islands of Burray and South Ronaldsay to the Orkney Mainland. Stretching across tidal flats and coastal waters, the causeway allows passage where once only boats could navigate. Its presence has transformed local travel and commerce, making the islands more accessible and fostering community connections.

Origins and Construction

This causeway has a poignant history, having been constructed by Italian prisoners of war during the Second World War. These prisoners were brought to Orkney and contributed their labor to building the Churchill Barriers, a series of causeways built for defensive purposes to protect Scapa Flow naval anchorage. The A961 causeway is part of this engineering legacy, reflecting both the strategic importance of Orkney during wartime and the human stories behind its construction.

Natural and Cultural Setting

Surrounded by the sweeping vistas of the Orkney coastline, the causeway offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical resonance. The tidal flats it crosses are rich in marine life and bird species, making the area a quiet haven for nature enthusiasts. Nearby, the Orkney Fossil and Heritage Centre on Burray provides context on the geological and cultural heritage of the islands, enhancing the visitor experience.

Experience and Atmosphere

Traveling the causeway, you can feel the blend of rugged coastal environment and the weight of history beneath your feet. The sound of waves mingles with the calls of seabirds, and the open skies stretch wide above. The causeway’s sturdy stone construction contrasts with the delicate ecosystem it spans, inviting reflection on the balance between human ingenuity and nature.

Visitor Insights and Practicalities

While there are no formal visitor facilities directly on the causeway, the surrounding area offers amenities such as restrooms and cafes in nearby villages. The causeway is accessible year-round, though weather can be variable, with strong winds and rain common in Orkney’s maritime climate. It is a favored route for locals and tourists alike, especially those exploring the islands by car or bicycle.

Legacy and Significance

The causeway stands as a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of those who built it under challenging conditions. It symbolizes a connection not only between islands but between past and present, war and peace, nature and human endeavor. For visitors, it offers a tangible link to Orkney’s layered history and an invitation to explore further the islands’ unique cultural landscape.