East Mainland – Beyond the Barriers
The East Mainland and islands of Burray and South Ronaldsay have, since the Second World War, been linked by the Churchill Barriers that provide easy road crossing whilst offering spectacular views – only 30 minutes’ drive from the hotel, this is road trip of a lifetime material.
Travelling south across the barriers from the Mainland, through Lamb Holm and into Burray and South Ronaldsay, you will find quaint villages, lovely beaches and thriving wildlife – visit October to December for the best chance of spotting seal pups.
Aside from the Churchill Barriers, there are many reminders of Orkney’s wartime history – concrete bunkers, watch towers, memorials, and the world-renowned Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners of war who were brought to Orkney in 1942 to construct the Churchill Barriers. Burray’s Fossil and Heritage Centre provides a fascinating insight into Orkney’s ancient past – and the construction of the Churchill Barriers.