NORTH RONALDSAY

Visiting the most northerly of Orkney’s islands is almost like stepping back in time.

North Ronaldsay’s famous seaweed-eating sheep are kept on the narrow strip of beach by a 13-mile stone dyke.

The sea wall itself was recently awarded the top status in the country for its historical significance, becoming recognised as an “A” listed structure and a scheduled monument.

The island also boasts the tallest land-based lighthouse in the British Isles, standing at 109ft high.

North Ronaldsay, like nearly every other island in Orkney, is a must-see for historical enthusiasts. One of the most popular tourist attractions the island can boast is the 13ft high lone sentinel stone, which is unlike most standing stones in Orkney, because of the hole through its upper part.

Like the secluded island of Graemsay, North Ronaldsay is also a good site for bird watching. A Bird Observatory, run by local ornithologist Kevin Woodbridge, is also located on North Ronaldsay.

Papa Stronsay >

North Ronaldsay (Picture: Orkney Photographic)