What to do in Shapinsay

Activities, attractions and tours

Fields above the east end of Veantro Bay, Shapinsay Photographer is near the northwest edge of the main road.
Photo by C Michael Hogan (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
Fields above the east end of Veantro Bay, Shapinsay Photographer is near the northwest edge of the main road.
Photo by C Michael Hogan (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
Mill Dam showing formation of southern outflow burn, Shapinsay This RSPB reserve provides feeding and resting habitat for a variety of birds, which are visible from the hide situated near the point of this photograph. This is arguably the most productive wetland on the island of Shapinsay. In the upper right one can see the formation of the outflow burn; moreover, in the extreme upper right is a small slice of the sea at Balfour Village, at which location the outlet burn from Mill Dam reaches the sea.
Photo by C Michael Hogan (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
Sea stack at southern edge of Lingavi Geo, Shapinsay east coast. With seabirds on cliffs and shoreline rocks.
Bay of Linton, Shapinsay, Orkney Islands. The foreground is a marshy meadow. At the right centre is a portion of the ruined chapel illustrated on the OS map.
Photo by C Michael Hogan (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
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What to do in Shapinsay

Popular places to visit

Balfour Castle

After visiting Balfour Castle, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Shapinsay. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Balfour Castle

Orkney Brewery

Find out about the history of Shapinsay when you spend time at Orkney Brewery. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Orkney Brewery

Day trip destinations from Shapinsay

St. Magnus Cathedral featuring a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and a cemetery

Kirkwall

Frequently asked questions

Is Shapinsay worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor pursuits and history, there are loads of great things to do in Shapinsay. Make sure to enjoy the area's blend of awesome sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Shapinsay?
Kick your day off with a visit to Balfour Castle and Scapa Beach. Then, explore different parts of Shapinsay for a bite to eat and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Shapinsay?
Balfour Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in Shapinsay and should feature high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Shapinsay?
Three days is plenty for a short trip to Shapinsay — you'll hit the main sights and get a good feel for the place. But if you truly want to soak it all in, stick around for at least a week or more to explore some nearby highlights too.
What are some activities to do in Shapinsay with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Shapinsay with kids.

What to do in Shapinsay for adults?
Highland Park Distillery and Scapa Distillery are just two of the things to do in Shapinsay. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Shapinsay?
There are lots of fun things to do in Shapinsay. Explore the parks or soak up the vibes at free events and festivals. Shapinsay offers lots of budget-friendly experiences that let you experience the area without spending a lot.