Tips
51m
October 23, 2022
Cycling
Built between 1569 & 1574 this was the palace, castle and home of the Earl of Orkney in the late 1500's. Its use was short lived however with the overthrow of the Stewart Earls in 1615. Records from Cromwell’s troops in 1653 suggest that the castle was already falling into disrepair and the roof was down by 1700.
Today it's a surprisingly intact ruin which you can explore. Managed by Historic Environment Scotland it's open all year and free to visit.
Today it's a surprisingly intact ruin which you can explore. Managed by Historic Environment Scotland it's open all year and free to visit.
Adie
April 25, 2023
Hiking
The Earls' Palace stands by the shore of Birsay Bay, and was constructed in the 1570-80's around a central courtyard and well, with large stone towers at three of the four corners, making it as much a fortress as a palace.
The site is anaged by Historic Environment Scotland and is open all year and free to visit.
The site is anaged by Historic Environment Scotland and is open all year and free to visit.
Bear S.
August 15, 2024
Hiking
Place with a long history. A 15 minute stop is enough. When you're up there, be sure to check out Brough of Bersay and Barony Mill.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Earl's Palace Birsay
5.0
(2)
20
hikers
11.0km
02:53
80m
80m
Embark on a moderate hike around the Brough of Birsay and Earl's Palace loop, covering 6.9 miles (11.0 km) with a modest 261 feet (79 metres) of elevation gain. This…
Moderate
5.0
(9)
33
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
Easy
4.9
(8)
51
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
Easy
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Elevation 10 m
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