| This Victorian castle is the best place to stay on Shapinsay (although it may also be the only place). Comfortable Victorian period furnishings complement an afternoon fire in the library. Most outstanding feature is the library collection itself, which holds many rare and obscure volumes, including prehistoric topics covering Scotland and England. Don't miss a walk through the walled garden, whose walls predate the main castle. Also be sure to ask to ascend the (locked) tower for its panoramic views; then explore the secret passageway out of the library. However, try to book your stay when a cruise ship is not bringing in its gaggle of passengers, lest the 200 cruise visitors overwhelm the place at tea time. |
25th January 2008ce
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| This lodging is at a very convenient location near the coast road, offering a great staging point to see all the megaliths on the West Mainland. There is an easy walk from the inn along the Burn of Eyrland to the Clestrain Sound with broad shingle beach. There are also scenic walks to the southwest into Mid Moss. The historic mill is quite atmospheric and comfortable, with exposed grinding works extant in the lounge. Breakfast is also excellent. |
25th January 2008ce
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| For a small museum, this is a worthwhile center. It is not a destination of itself, but a worthwhile stop, if one is trying to learn about the island of Shapinsay. It contains some substantive documents on the island's history and ecology that would be difficult to find elsewhere. The staff is not particularly knowledgeable, but very courteous. |
19th December 2007ce
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Physicist with a strong interest in archaeology. Most of professional work has been in the environmental sciences.
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