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.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Churchill Barriers

1.3 km

Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.

First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole

1.6 km

A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.

The Cannon

24.3 km

Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.

John O'Groats Signpost

28.2 km

Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.

Nybster Broch

38.2 km

Discover the enchanting Nybster Broch, an ancient Iron Age site in Scotland offering a unique glimpse into Pictish history amidst stunning coastal vistas.

Above and Beyond Tours

38.8 km

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.

Mary Ann's Cottage

39.0 km

Explore the fascinating history of Caithness at Mary Ann's Cottage, a charming museum showcasing 19th-century life and culture.

Old Keiss Castle

40.0 km

Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.

Whitegate broch

40.5 km

An atmospheric Iron Age broch perched on a Caithness headland, offering dramatic sea views and a powerful sense of Scotland’s ancient past.

Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))

41.9 km

Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.

Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))

Castlehill Heritage Centre

42.1 km

Discover the captivating history and culture of Castletown at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, a unique museum in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Quoyness Chambered Cairn

42.7 km

Discover the ancient mysteries of Quoyness Chambered Cairn, a Neolithic burial site on Sanday Island, Orkney, steeped in history and natural beauty.

Harold’s Tower

46.0 km

Discover the charm and history of Harold's Tower in Thurso, a stunning heritage site offering breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.

Reiss Sands

46.1 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Reiss Sands, a pristine public beach near Wick, perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst Scotland's stunning coastline.

Ackergill Tower

46.8 km

Experience the historic charm and stunning beauty of Ackergill Tower, a magnificent castle in the heart of Caithness, Scotland, perfect for your next getaway.

Unmissable attractions to see

Italian Chapel

1.1 km

A stunning WWII chapel on Lamb Holm, crafted by Italian POWs, symbolizing faith, artistry, and resilience amid adversity.

Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre

2.7 km

Explore Orkney’s ancient fossils, wartime history, and island heritage at this engaging centre on Burray.

Burn of Sutherland

3.7 km

Discover the peaceful Burn of Sutherland, a pristine Highland stream nestled in Orkney’s wild and historic landscape.

Viking Totem pole

4.3 km

A striking Viking-themed carved wooden pole on Burray’s beach, celebrating Orkney’s Norse heritage through local artistry.

Roseness Walk

4.4 km

Experience Orkney’s rugged coastal beauty and tranquil wildlife on the easy, scenic Roseness Walk near Cornquoy.

Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café

8.7 km

Handcrafted Orkney jewellery in a restored church, where ancient enamelling techniques meet contemporary design.

Scapa Beach

9.6 km

Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history of Scapa Beach, a scenic coastal gem near Kirkwall in Orkney.

Highland Park Whisky Distillery

10.0 km

Explore the northernmost Scotch whisky distillery, blending Viking heritage and Orkney’s unique peat smoke into world-renowned single malts.

Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces

11.4 km

Explore Kirkwall’s medieval and Renaissance palaces where Norse kings and notorious earls shaped Orkney’s history.

St Magnus Cathedral

11.5 km

Explore Scotland’s oldest cathedral, a stunning medieval masterpiece and spiritual heart of Orkney, rich with Norse history and vibrant cultural life.

The Tankerness House

11.5 km

Explore Orkney’s rich history in the stunning 16th-century Tankerness House, home to the internationally significant Orkney Museum.

The Orkney Museum

11.5 km

Discover Orkney’s story from ancient times to today in the historic Tankerness House, home to nationally significant archaeology and vibrant cultural exhibits.

Badly Drawn Cat

11.7 km

A cozy vegan café and art gallery in Kirkwall blending plant-based delights with local creativity and friendly charm.

Spirit of Orkney

11.8 km

Explore the historic heart of Kirkwall where Orkney’s rich Norse heritage and vibrant local culture come alive.

Waulkmill Bay

11.8 km

Discover Waulkmill Bay, Orkney’s peaceful golden beach with stunning Scapa Flow views and a hidden coastal charm perfect for picnics and nature lovers.

Essential places to dine

The Sands Hotel, Orkney

4.3 km

A welcoming coastal retreat on Burray Island with stunning sea views, excellent dining, and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney.

The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant

7.1 km

Historic charm meets fresh seafood in Orkney’s welcoming Murray Arms Hotel, a cozy coastal retreat in St Margaret's Hope.

The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant

The Foveran

10.1 km

A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.

Sakura Kitchen

11.0 km

Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.

Happy Haddock

11.4 km

Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.

The Orkney Hotel

11.4 km

Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.

Lucano

11.4 km

Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.

Empire Chinese Restaurant

11.5 km

A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.

The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms

11.7 km

A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms.

Trenabies Cafe Bistro

11.7 km

Cozy cafe and bistro in Kirkwall offering hearty local dishes, great coffee, and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.

Twenty One

11.7 km

A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.

Pomona Cafe

11.7 km

A cozy, traditional Kirkwall cafe serving hearty breakfasts and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney’s capital.

Bothy Bar

11.8 km

Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.

Busters Diner

11.8 km

A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.

Dil Se Restaurant

11.8 km

Experience authentic North Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Kirkwall’s award-winning Dil Se Restaurant, blending tradition with local freshness.

A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar

7.0 km

A warm, family-run coffeehouse and bar in historic St Margaret's Hope, serving traditional fare, local drinks, and inclusive menus in a charming setting.

The West End Guest House

11.2 km

A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.

Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar

11.4 km

Discover Kirkwall’s historic Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar, home to over 1,000 whiskies, 160 gins, and authentic Orcadian hospitality in a 350-year-old setting.

Auld Motor Hoose

11.7 km

A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

The Neuk

11.8 km

A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.

Torvhaug

11.8 km

A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Skippers

11.8 km

Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.

Highland Park Bar

11.8 km

A cozy Kirkwall bar serving an extensive range of Highland Park whiskies and local drinks in a warm, inviting atmosphere within the Kirkwall Hotel.

Oot The Back

11.9 km

Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.

Ayre Hotel & Apartments

11.9 km

Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.

The Taversoe

28.6 km

A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The Mey Hotel

33.2 km

Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.

Dunnet Bay Escapes

38.7 km

Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

The Village Inn

40.7 km

A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.

The Belsair

42.5 km

A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.

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Historic Causeway on A961, Burray, Orkney

A brief summary to Causeway

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Car

Bus

Bicycle

Causeway location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Causeway

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Causeway

A Link Across the Tides

Origins and Construction

Natural and Cultural Setting

Experience and Atmosphere

Visitor Insights and Practicalities

Legacy and Significance

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Churchill Barriers

First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole

The Cannon

John O'Groats Signpost

Nybster Broch

Above and Beyond Tours

Mary Ann's Cottage

Old Keiss Castle

Whitegate broch

Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))

Castlehill Heritage Centre

Quoyness Chambered Cairn

Harold’s Tower

Reiss Sands

Ackergill Tower

Unmissable attractions to see

Italian Chapel

Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre

Burn of Sutherland

Viking Totem pole

Roseness Walk

Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café

Scapa Beach

Highland Park Whisky Distillery

Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces

St Magnus Cathedral

The Tankerness House

The Orkney Museum

Badly Drawn Cat

Spirit of Orkney

Waulkmill Bay

Essential places to dine

The Sands Hotel, Orkney

The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant

The Foveran

Sakura Kitchen

Happy Haddock

The Orkney Hotel

Lucano

Empire Chinese Restaurant

The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms

Trenabies Cafe Bistro

Twenty One

Pomona Cafe

Bothy Bar

Busters Diner

Dil Se Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Celina Rupp Jewellery

Workshop & Loft Gallery

Deerness Stores

The Original Orkney Hamper Company

Orkney Tweed

Blue Joe's

Judith Glue

The Longship

Aurora Jewellery

Starlings

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