Olav's Wood, Orkney Travel Guide

4.7 (73)

A magical mixed woodland sanctuary in Orkney, blending rare trees, wildlife, and tranquil streams in a unique northern landscape.

Olav's Wood is a remarkable mixed woodland located on South Ronaldsay in Orkney, Scotland. Established since the mid-1970s, this 4.5-acre natural haven features dense forests, open glades, and a picturesque burn with cascades. It supports diverse wildlife and rare plant species, representing a rare forested environment in an otherwise treeless landscape. Visitors can explore its varied habitats, but should take care due to uneven and steep paths.

A brief summary to Olav's Wood

Orkney, KW17 2RN, GB
Click to display
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Olav's Wood.

Wear sturdy footwear as paths can be uneven, steep, and slippery in places.
Take care near unfenced steep banks and open water; not suitable for unsupervised children.
Respect the natural environment by taking all litter with you and keeping dogs under control.
Visit during daylight hours for the best experience of the woodland’s diverse habitats and wildlife.

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Explore Olav's Wood on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Olav's Wood, mapped for you.

Getting There

Bus

Take the local bus service from Kirkwall to St. Margaret's Hope, then a taxi for approximately 10 minutes to Olav's Wood. Bus journeys typically take 45–60 minutes; taxis cost around £10–£15. Bus frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
Car

Driving from Kirkwall takes about 30–40 minutes via the A961. Parking is available at Olav's Wood but is limited; please park considerately to avoid obstructing farm vehicles. No parking fees apply.
Walking

For active visitors, a walk from St. Margaret's Hope to Olav's Wood is approximately 7 km and takes around 1.5–2 hours over rural terrain with some uneven and steep sections. Suitable only for those comfortable with longer walks.

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

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Discover more about Olav's Wood

A Woodland Born from Vision and Dedication

Olav's Wood is a testament to the vision of Helen and Stephen Manson along with Olav Dennison, who began planting this woodland in the mid-1970s. Over decades, their efforts transformed what was once open fields into a thriving mixed woodland spanning approximately 4.5 acres (1.8 hectares). The woodland continues to be developed and maintained, showcasing a variety of trees and shrubs from around the world. Some exotic species here may represent the northernmost thriving examples in the British Isles, making the site both horticulturally and ecologically significant.

Contrasting the Treeless Orkney Landscape

Orkney’s landscape is famously treeless due to historical deforestation and climatic challenges. Olav's Wood stands out as a rare forested enclave amidst this open terrain. The woodland runs down a hillside alongside Oback Burn, a stream featuring cascades and pools that add to the tranquil atmosphere. The site’s varied topography includes dense forest patches and more open woodland glades, creating diverse microhabitats that support a wide range of plant and animal life.

Rich Biodiversity and Habitat Variety

The woodland offers a mosaic of habitats that nurture an impressive variety of wildlife. Bird species, invertebrates, and plants—some unique to Orkney—find refuge here. The presence of new and rare species highlights the ecological importance of Olav's Wood as a wildlife haven. Visitors can observe this biodiversity while enjoying the natural beauty of the burn and the surrounding greenery.

Visitor Experience and Safety Considerations

Olav's Wood is open to the public as a community woodland, inviting exploration and connection with nature. However, the terrain can be challenging: paths are uneven, steep, and potentially slippery, with unfenced steep banks and open water areas. These factors mean the woodland is not suitable for unsupervised children and requires visitors to exercise caution. The woodland’s natural state encourages responsible behavior, including taking litter away and managing dogs carefully.

Legacy and Community Importance

Beyond its natural allure, Olav's Wood symbolizes community spirit and environmental stewardship in Orkney. It reflects the dedication of individuals who sought to restore woodland to an island where trees are scarce. The ongoing care and development of the site ensure it remains a living legacy and a place for locals and visitors to experience Orkney’s natural heritage in a unique setting.

Setting and Surroundings

Situated on South Ronaldsay near Windwick, the woodland is accessed through a farm gate and lies within a largely rural and open landscape. The presence of Oback Burn adds a soothing water element, enhancing the peaceful ambience. The wood’s location at latitude 58°45' N makes it one of the northernmost thriving woodlands in the British Isles, adding to its distinctive character and appeal.