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About Birsay Moors

Heather moorland at RSPB Birsay Moors nature reserve

Image: Andy Hay

If you enjoy the solemn grandeur of moorland landscape, the Orkney moors can be a wonderful place to visit, full of wild and windswept beauty. Come during the summer to see hen harriers, short-eared owls and elegant Arctic skuas nesting. Time spent in our Burgar Hill hide should also reward you with spectacular views of breeding red-throated divers.

Opening times

Open at all times

Entrance charges

None, but donations to help us continue our work here are welcomed

Information for families

Wildlife Explorer backpacks are available from the Stromness office. These contain binoculars, identification guides for birds and other species, bug jars etc. to help children get the most from their visit.

Information for dog owners

You are welcome to bring your dog to the reserve, but please keep them under close control at all times and stay on tracks.

Contact us

Where is it?

  • Lat/lng: 59.098210,-3.152933
  • Grid reference: HY340240
  • Nearest town: Kirkwall, Mainland
  • County: Orkney
  • Country: Scotland

Get directions

Note: Some reserves are not served directly by public transport and, in these cases, a nearby destination (from which you may need to walk or take a taxi or ferry) may be offered.

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