Wildfire risk
With wildfire risk currently extremely high, we urge visitors to take extra care by avoiding any activity that could start a fire and immediately reporting any signs of smoke or fire to 999 to help protect people and wildlife. Please note, some of our nature reserves are closed due to wildfires, please check before you travel.
Advice on wildfire preventionThu 30 July 2026 12:00 Days out
Hobbister
HobbisterOpenSee opening timesMarvel at hunting Short-eared Owls and Hen Harriers on the moorland or set out on a coastal walk to see Black Guillemots bobbing on the water and hear Twites twittering overhead.
About
At Hobbister, spring birdsong meets sweeping views across Waulkmill Bay. This magical mixture of land and water blends sea cliffs and saltmarsh with moorland and sandflats. On the moor, keep an eye out for Hen Harriers, Short-eared Owls and Red-throated Divers, while the coastal walks will reveal Red-breasted Mergansers and Black Guillemots. Listen out for twittering Twites overhead, distant bubbling Curlews or yodelling Great Northern Divers on the impressive Scapa Flow. The colours, sky and seascape are always an impressive sight.
We manage the reserve with wildlife in mind, working to maintain a mosaic of moorland habitats, sea cliffs and saltmarsh and provide ideal conditions for breeding Hen Harriers, Curlews and Short-eared Owls.
We minimise disturbance to breeding birds, promote sustainable grazing regimes, and work with our neighbours to help protect the fragile moorland ecosystem.
At a glance
4 spaces. Spaces in unmarked bays at southern entrance (grid ref: HY395069).
Further car parking is available at the side of the road at Waulkmill Bay. No height restrictions. No lighting.
There are no toilets here. Nearest RADAR scheme accessible toilet facilities are at Waulkmill Bay, 1.5 miles (2km) to the west, and Scapa beach, 3 miles (5km) to the east.
There are no toilets here. Baby change is available in Kirkwall.
The track is very rough and often wet and muddy with steep incline up a peat bank. Stile at Waulkmill Bay entrance.
The track is very rough and often wet and muddy with steep incline up a peat bank. Stile at Waulkmill Bay entrance.
There are no toilets here. Nearest toilet facilities are at Waulkmill Bay, 1.5 miles (2km) to the west, and Scapa beach, 3 miles (5km) to the east.
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
RSPB Scotland welcomes responsible access, in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. During the ground-nesting bird breeding season (1 April to 15 August) and in areas with livestock, we would ask that you keep your dog on a short lead and clean up after them.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
See what’s here
Contact Hobbister
orkney@rspb.org.uk Hobbister, KW17, Orkney Islands, KW17 2RA 01856 850176