Archaeology
Ten ancient sites, with a page about the history of each and how to visit.
Explore ancient Rousay
Plan your stay /
Things to do
DAYS OUT · ROUSAY, ORKNEY
Things to do
on Rousay.
There’s plenty to do on Rousay, from walking and birdwatching to exploring ancient sites and joining a guided tour. These are some of the places and activities we recommend.
Things to do on Rousay
What is there to do on Rousay?
Rousay offers coastal and hill walks, ancient cairns and brochs, birdwatching and time by the sea. Choose a short beach stroll or a full day exploring, independently or with a local guide. Egilsay and Wyre are also possible ferry outings, planned around the day’s return sailings.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
A day with
Rousay Tours.
We really recommend Rousay Tours. Their full-day tours bring together the island’s archaeology and the stories of the people who lived here.
Explore full-day tours
AROUND THE ISLAND
Walks, wildlife and history.
Walking
Walks across the moorland, along the coast and past the monuments at Midhowe.
Find a Rousay walkCycling & bike hire
Bikes are available to hire on Rousay for the island road. We can help with the details.
Bike hire & routesBirdwatching & wildlife
Twelve birds to look out for, when you might see them and places to watch on Rousay and Egilsay.
Find places to watchWild swimming
Saviskaill Bay is one of our favourites for wild swimming. We’ve included some other Orkney beaches too.
Explore swimming spotsRousay Tours & island history
We really recommend Rousay Tours for a full day getting to know the island’s history and archaeology.
Full-day tour detailsRousay Heritage Centre
At the pier, the Heritage Centre is a good place to learn about Rousay’s people, places and natural history.
Visit the Heritage CentreIsland day trips
Daily ferries make Egilsay and Wyre easy half-day trips from the farm. Orkney Mainland is an easy day trip too.
Island day tripsWriting, art & quiet days
You’ll find space to write, make art or settle down with a book in either cottage.
Creative staysBoat trips & charters
You can book a charter from Rousay. Eynhallow is a great choice if you’d like to visit an uninhabited island.
View boat trips
Questions about days out.
Can we explore Rousay without a car?
Yes. You can book a guided tour or hire a bike. Rousay is hilly and the sights are spread out. You’ll also need to arrange transport between the cottage and your meeting or bike collection point.
What can we do on a wet day?
Visit the Heritage Centre, or enjoy a quiet day at the cottage. You’ll find plenty of books in both houses, and there’s bound to be something to suit everyone.
Are there things to do with children?
Yes. There are short walks, tours and other activities. Tour and activity providers can tell you which ages they cater for. Some archaeological sites have steep, uneven paths; the individual guides explain what the walks are like.
A PLACE TO COME HOME TO