Tour 3 - East Side of Papa Westray
Papa Westray
Papa Westray, known locally as Papay, is one of Orkney's smallest islands measuring 1 mile wide by 4 miles long. It has a population of around 70.
Papay has a rich history and Historic Scotland numbers nearly 60 archaeological sites there.
The worlds shortest scheduled aeroplane flight operates between Papay and Westray. The trip takes just under 2 minutes and a certificate is available to those who fly!
Knap of Howar
The Knap of Howar is located on Papay's west shore and consists of two stone built structures built side by side and linked by a passageway through the adjoining wall.
The Knap of Howar is the oldest known stone house in Northern Europe and dates from 3700 to 2800 BC, making it some 5000 years old.
The site was uncovered by a violent storm in the 1930s' and after excavating 2 metres of sand the Neolithic dwelling "houses" were discovered. The buildings and furniture have been beautifully preserved with partition screens, beds and storage shelves still intact.
Knap of Howar means "knoll of mounds" which describes the site before excavation of the sand dunes which covered the site.
Sights Along the Way
Papay Holm: The Holm is accessible by small boat and has 3 ancient chambered cairns. It is thought that the Holm was used as a ritual site by the occupants of Papay and may have once been linked to the main island by a natural causeway.
Look out for seals on the rocks around this area.
North Hill: At 48 metres North Hill is the Papay's highest point. It is home to terns, puffins and great skuas.
North Hill was also one of the last breeding places of the Great Auk, the last one being seen in 1813.
Wildlife to Look Out For
Common Seals: Common seals are approximately 1.5 metres long with the bulls weighing up to around 250kg and the cows around half that. Breeding season is between June and July.
The Scottish population of Common seals is estimated at 33,000, about 90% of the world population.
Grey Seals: Grey seals are a little larger than the Common seal, at approximately 2 metres long, the bulls weighing up to around 300kg and the cows about a third less. Their diet consists of all types of fish supplemented by squid, sand eels and crabs. Breeding season is in Autumn.
The Scottish population of Grey seals has been estimated at 140,000.
Harbour Porpoise: Harbour Porpoise are most commonly found around the Hebrides and Northern Isles. Their length ranges from 1.4 - 1.9 metres and they can weigh up to around 65kg. Harbour porpoises are sociable and gather in pods od 2-5.
