Stone of Setter

Embark on the Eday Heritage Walk, a moderate hike spanning 6.6 miles (10.6 km) with an elevation gain of 383 feet (117 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 48 minutes to complete. This trail offers a varied landscape, guiding you through open hill ground, rough farmland, and heathery moorland, interspersed with quiet single-track roads and peat tracks. You will encounter dramatic coastal areas, including the striking red sandstone cliffs of Red Head, which provide superb views across to the Grey Head on the Calf of Eday, known for its seabird colonies. Expect some boggy sections, especially between Vinquoy and Noup Hills, where duckboards are provided over the wettest parts.

To best enjoy this experience, a reasonable level of fitness is required, and sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended due to the mixed and sometimes wet terrain. Navigation skills are essential, particularly if visibility is poor. The Eday Heritage Centre, located at the start of the walk, offers a great opportunity to learn about the island's history and wildlife before you set off. Plan your visit to allow ample time to explore the various points of interest along the way.

This walk is a journey through Orkney's past and present, showcasing a remarkable concentration of historical and archaeological sites. You can discover the impressive Stone of Setter, one of Orkney's tallest standing stones, and explore several Neolithic chambered cairns, including the well-preserved Vinquoy Chambered Cairn, where you can even crawl into its central chamber. The route also passes Carrick House, historically linked to the pirate John Gow, and offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities at Mill Loch Bird Hide, a vital breeding ground for red-throated divers. Keep an eye out for seals, otters, oystercatchers, and hen-harriers, making this trail a true "Orkney in miniature" experience.