Explore the Untamed Beauty of RSPB Scotland Hoy Nature Reserve
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of RSPB Scotland Hoy Nature Reserve, a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Hoy, the RSPB Scotland Hoy Nature Reserve is a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. With breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and serene walking trails, this reserve offers an unforgettable experience for tourists seeking tranquility and connection with nature.
A brief summary to RSPB Scotland Hoy nature reserve
- Stromness, Hoy, GB
- +441856850176
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings and quieter trails.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly in this coastal region.
- Check the reserve's schedule for special events or guided walks for a richer experience.
- Plan to spend a few hours here to fully appreciate the diverse habitats and views.
Getting There
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Car
From Stromness, take the A965 road towards Hoy. Follow the signs for the ferry terminal to Hoy at the northern end of Stromness. The ferry, operated by Orkney Ferries, departs frequently. You will need to purchase a ticket, which costs around £6 for a return trip. Once you arrive at the Hoy ferry terminal, follow the road signs towards the RSPB Scotland Hoy nature reserve. The reserve is located approximately 3 miles from the ferry terminal. Keep an eye out for the RSPB signs to guide you.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you can take a bus from Kirkwall or Stromness to the Hoy ferry terminal. Check the Orkney Islands Council website for the latest bus schedules. The bus fare is typically around £3. After arriving at the ferry terminal, board the ferry to Hoy (ticket costs about £6 for a return). Once you disembark at Hoy, you can either walk (approximately 3 miles) to the RSPB Scotland Hoy nature reserve or check if local taxis are available for hire at the ferry terminal.
Discover more about RSPB Scotland Hoy nature reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Cannon
6.5 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
24.0 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
24.0 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
Above and Beyond Tours
30.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
John O'Groats Signpost
31.7 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
34.0 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Burroughston Broch
35.2 km
An Iron Age tower standing sentinel on Orkney's windswept cliffs, where ancient stones meet the North Sea.
The Gloup
35.2 km
Experience the stunning cliffs and rich wildlife at The Gloup, a natural wonder on Mainland, Orkney, perfect for hiking and breathtaking views.
Caithness Agricultural Society
35.5 km
Experience the rich agricultural heritage of Caithness at the Caithness Agricultural Society, a vibrant hub for farming enthusiasts and tourists.
Old St Peter’s Church, Thurso
35.6 km
Discover the architectural splendor and rich history of Old St Peter’s Church, a must-visit historical landmark in Thurso, Scotland.
North Coast Visitor Centre
35.7 km
Discover the North Coast Visitor Centre in Thurso, a museum and café that showcases Scotland's stunning northern coastline and rich cultural heritage.
Things Va
37.4 km
Uncover the secrets of Scotland's ancient heritage at Thurso Broch, a remarkable historical site that whispers tales of the past.
Bucholie Castle
38.7 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views of Bucholie Castle, an enchanting historical landmark in Nybster, near Wick, Scotland.
Geise Farm
39.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Geise Farm in Thurso, where nature, tranquility, and rural charm come together for a perfect escape.
Caithness Broch Centre
40.3 km
Explore the ancient Iron Age at the Caithness Broch Centre, a unique attraction that unveils the mysteries of Scotland's historic broch structures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dwarfie Stane
1.6 km
Explore the only Neolithic rock-cut tomb in Orkney, where ancient craftsmanship meets legend in a remote, atmospheric valley on Hoy.
Hoy High Lighthouse
4.7 km
Explore Hoy High Lighthouse, a historic gem in Orkney, where maritime history meets stunning coastal views and natural beauty.
Hoy
4.9 km
Historic Stromness: Orkney’s charming seaport where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and stunning coastal landscapes.
Rackwick Beach
5.1 km
Remote and scenic Rackwick Beach on Hoy offers dramatic cliffs, rich wildlife, and access to Orkney’s iconic Old Man of Hoy sea stack.
Cra'as Nest
5.1 km
Discover the authentic 18th-century Orcadian croft life at Cra'as Nest Museum, perched above scenic Rackwick Bay on Hoy Island.
Ness Battery
5.9 km
Explore Ness Battery, a preserved World War coastal defense site in Stromness, revealing Orkney’s vital naval history and wartime stories.
Old Man of Hoy
6.1 km
Soaring 450 feet above the Atlantic, the Old Man of Hoy is a breathtaking sea stack and iconic Orkney landmark beloved by climbers and nature enthusiasts.
Stromness Museum
6.6 km
Explore Orkney’s maritime past and natural wonders at Stromness Museum, a captivating cultural gem on the waterfront.
Sunken Fleet
6.7 km
A haunting cluster of wartime wrecks resting in the clear waters off Stromness, offering divers a powerful encounter with Orkney’s naval past.
Pier Arts Centre
7.2 km
Discover a nationally significant collection of 20th century British art in Stromness’s award-winning Pier Arts Centre with free admission and inspiring exhibitions.
Statue of Dr John Rae, Artic Explorer
7.2 km
Discover the legacy of Orcadian Arctic explorer Dr John Rae at his commemorative statue in the historic harbor town of Stromness.
Stromness Harbour
7.6 km
Historic Stromness Harbour: a sheltered maritime gateway blending rich heritage with vibrant coastal charm in Orkney.
Orkneyinga Saga Centre
9.4 km
Explore Orkney’s Viking saga through immersive exhibits and historic ruins in the tranquil village of Orphir.
Earls Bu & Church : Orphir
9.4 km
Explore the unique 12th-century Norse estate with Scotland’s only medieval round church, steeped in Viking saga and history.
Scapa Flow Museum
9.9 km
Explore Orkney’s naval heritage at Scapa Flow Museum, where history and interactive exhibits bring two World Wars to life in the heart of Hoy.
Essential places to dine
The Hamnavoe Restaurant
7.0 km
A cozy, historic Stromness restaurant serving innovative seasonal dishes blending Orkney seafood with European and Asian flavors.
Ferry Inn Stromness
7.3 km
A cozy, historic inn on Stromness harbour offering hearty local cuisine and warm hospitality just steps from the ferry terminal.
Julia's Cafe Bistro
7.4 km
Cozy cafe in Stromness offering freshly made rolls with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Adam's Place
7.4 km
Fresh local seafood and an acclaimed wine list await you at Adam's Place, a cozy culinary highlight on Stromness’s waterfront.
Emily’s
8.6 km
Charming and quirky café in Lyness offering homemade treats and warm hospitality near Stromness ferry terminal.
Leigh's Real Taste of Orkney
16.5 km
Discover Orkney’s finest takeaway flavors at Leigh's, where local produce meets generous portions and friendly service in Finstown.
The Skerries Restaurant
17.9 km
Experience exquisite local seafood with breathtaking views at The Skerries Restaurant by Loch of Harray in Orkney’s tranquil natural setting.
The Foveran
18.7 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant
22.0 km
Historic charm meets fresh seafood in Orkney’s welcoming Murray Arms Hotel, a cozy coastal retreat in St Margaret's Hope.
Sakura Kitchen
22.1 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
Happy Haddock
22.1 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
22.1 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
The Orkney Hotel
22.2 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Lucano
22.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
Busters Diner
22.4 km
A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vintage Paper Co
6.8 km
Discover handmade papers, artisanal bookbinding, and unique stationery in the heart of Stromness at Vintage Paper Co.
Cream
7.0 km
Explore Cream in Stromness for unique gifts, local art, and a taste of Orkney's creativity.
Waterfront Gallery
7.0 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and local artistry at Waterfront Gallery, a cultural gem in the heart of Stromness.
Wild Heather Crafts
8.7 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and handmade treasures at Wild Heather Crafts, a cozy artisan shop in Stromness.
Heksmoar
13.7 km
A charming craft shop in Stromness showcasing handcrafted Orcadian textiles, ceramics, jewellery and art in a warm, welcoming space.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
21.7 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Workshop & Loft Gallery
21.9 km
Discover authentic Orcadian knitwear, crafts, and art in the welcoming Workshop & Loft Gallery of St Margaret's Hope.
Orkney Tweed
22.2 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Blue Joe's
22.2 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and unique souvenirs at Blue Joe's, Kirkwall’s charming gift shop full of local treasures and stories.
Judith Glue
22.3 km
Discover Kirkwall’s charming Aladdin’s Cave of local gifts, knitwear, and jewellery at Judith Glue, a beloved hub of Orcadian craftsmanship since 1976.
The Longship
22.3 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Aurora Jewellery
22.4 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
22.4 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
22.4 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Kairds
22.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The West End Guest House
22.1 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
22.2 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.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
22.2 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
22.3 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
22.3 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Oot The Back
22.4 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
The Neuk
22.4 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Highland Park Bar
22.5 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.
Skippers
22.5 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
22.6 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
The Mey Hotel
29.6 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
The Taversoe
30.1 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
31.0 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Peerie Cafe
34.8 km
Experience delightful flavors and breathtaking views at Peerie Cafe, your cozy retreat by the Thurso harbor.
The Grove Lounge
35.8 km
A cozy and lively bar in Thurso offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Orkney Club
22.5 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
36.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
52.4 km
Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.
