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Core Paths Plan

Contents

Foreward ii

1 Introducing Core Paths 1 3 Appendix 1: Core Paths Network Maps 23

1.1 What is a Core Paths Plan? 1 24 1.2 Aims of the Core Paths Plan 2 Papa 25 1.3 Preparation of the Core Paths Plan 2 Westray 26 1.4 Selecting Core Paths 3 Sanday 27 28 29 2 Core Paths Networks for each and Wyre 30 island and parish in Orkney 5 31 32 2.1 North Ronaldsay 6 and 33 2.2 7 Kirkwall 34 2.3 Westray 8 35 2.4 Sanday 9 36 2.5 Eday 10 Holm 37 2.6 Rousay 11 38 2.7 Egilsay and Wyre 12 North and 39 2.8 Stronsay 12 40 2.9 Shapinsay 13 41 2.10 Kirkwall and St Ola 14 42 2.11 Tankerness 15 43 2.12 Deerness 15 West Mainland 1 44 2.13 Holm 16 West Mainland 2 45 2.14 Hoy 17 West Mainland 3 46 2.15 North and South Walls 18 West Mainland 4 47 2.16 Burray 19 2.17 South Ronaldsay 20 2.18 Flotta 21 2.19 Graemsay 21 2.20 West Mainland 22

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Orkney Core Paths Plan

Introducing Core Paths 1.1 WHAT IS A CORE PATHS PLAN?

The Land Reform () Act 2003 created a new right of responsible access over most land and inland water. As well as establishing this wider access right the legislation acknowledged that paths play a very important role in managing outdoor access and the majority of people do prefer to use definedpaths. As a result one of the key duties in the Act is for local authorities to produce a Core Paths Plan.

The purpose of the Core Paths Plan is to 1 identify a framework of paths which will provide local residents and visitors with reasonable access throughout their local authority area. Core Paths will form the basic network of paths that allow people to enjoy and get around the countryside.This framework of routes will link to, and support, other networks of paths and the wider countryside. The Core Paths Plan should include a wide range of routes suitable for different types of users, including walkers, cyclists and horse riders, as well as providing access opportunities for people of varying ability.

The majority of Core Paths will be existing, well established and popular routes such as public rights of way and paths currently managed by the Council or landowners. However, the Core Paths Plan can also include new routes and any other routes that will help the public to access the outdoors. Paths will vary in character depending on their location and who needs to use the path. So there will be natural grassy paths, as well as hard surfaced multi-user paths and even some quiet roads can be included as Core Paths.The paths will also be well managed, signposted and promoted to ensure that the public can fully use and enjoy them.

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While Core Paths will be an important part of The aim of the Core Paths Plan is to help non motorised outdoor access, it is important achieve this vision.The following objectives to remember that this basic framework of outline how the Core Paths Network will paths is only one element of the access rights contribute to the improvement of outdoor created by the Land Reform (Scotland) Act access in the islands: 2003.Three interlinking levels of access will be available for the public: • by providing a co-ordinated, actively promoted and well maintained network of paths • the basic framework of Core Paths • by providing a range of opportunities suitable • the wider path network linking to the Core for different user groups and people of Paths and including all other formal and all abilities which are safe, welcoming and informal routes enjoyable • the general right of responsible access which is • by working with land managers to achieve a not restricted to paths. balance between the needs of access users and the needs of those living and working on the It is intended that the provision of Core land. Paths will improve outdoor access in Orkney • by promoting sustainable access which – whether it is for enjoying our remarkable safeguards the natural, built and cultural natural and historical heritage, taking the dog heritage. for a walk or getting to school.They will also provide opportunities for managing public 1.3 PREPARATION OF THE CORE PATHS access in a way that reduces the impact of PLAN access users on farming activities. Countryside access in Orkney has been 1.2 AIMS OF THE CORE PATHS PLAN developing over many years, to the extent that we now have a variety of paths throughout The vision for outdoor access in Orkney as the islands. Paths have been developed in identified in Orkney’s Outdoor Access Strategy conjunction with various community groups, is: ‘To promote enjoyment of the outdoors by landowners, organisations and agencies.Through providing high quality, sustainable access provision, this work the Council has built up considerable which satisfies the needs and aspirations of the knowledge of access needs and requirements local community and visitors to the islands.’ in Orkney.This background work has been

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a useful tool to support the consultations Planning displays and meetings in their areas. required as part of the development of the Core Paths Plan. A suite of maps was compiled as a result of these consultations and with input from Guidance on the development of Core experienced officials within the Council.These Paths Plans suggests that extensive informal maps, plus accompanying text, formed the basis consultation is undertaken before the of the draft Core Paths Plan. draft Core Paths Plan goes out to formal consultation. In Orkney there have been two informal consultation phases. In the first phase Formal public consultation on the draft the aim was to gather information on the Orkney Core Paths Plan was undertaken from current provision for access, future demand for 8 February to 10 May 2008.The draft plan access and the key access issues for each area consultation was advertised in the local press, of Orkney. In addition to gathering this useful on the Council website and on the Orkney background information, this consultation also Local Access Forum website. focussed on identifying key paths in each island or parish. In total there were only 4 formal objections to the plan. It has been possible to resolve each of During this phase public meetings were held these objections and the Core Paths Plan maps in all the islands and parishes of Orkney.There have been amended to take account of the were also meetings with key organisations changes required to address the issues. Overall, and agencies, especially members of the Local changes to the Plan have been minimal, with Access Forum. Other methods were also used the routes of only 3 paths being altered. to gather information about outdoor access and key paths. Questionnaires were sent out to a wide range of user groups, land managers In line with the new Orkney Local and tourists to get their views. Information was Development Plan it is necessary to formally displayed at key locations, such as the public establish the status of the Core Paths Plan as library. statutory Supplementary Guidance.The Core Paths Plan will be subject to a further round of Following this first phase Council access staff consulation alongside the Proposed Plan. undertook an assessment of the suggested Core Paths against certain selection criteria The total length of the Core Paths in the final and began to develop maps showing candidate Orkney Core Paths Plan is 378 miles. Core Paths. At this stage it was also important to check paths ‘on the ground’, by surveying each route to assess its condition and identify 1.4 SELECTING CORE PATHS any relevant issues. Criteria were used to help select paths for The second phase of consultation was geared inclusion in the Core Paths Plan.These criteria towards confirmation of the paths that ouldw were developed to reflect the objectives of the be included in the draft Core Paths Plan. A plan and also with reference to the information ‘Core Paths Planning Information Pack’ was gathered at public consultations. Each path developed to help the public respond to the identified as a candidate Core Path in the consultation, maps were displayed at prominent consultation, has been scored against these places on the mainland and the isles and ‘drop criteria. in’ sessions were held at key locations.The Local Access Forum played an important role in this phase with forum representatives consulting An assessment has also been made of the extensively with members of their organisations proposed network for each area, ie considering and groups. Island development trusts, tourist all the candidate paths in a particular area and associations and community councils also whether together these paths provide sufficient played a very active part, organising Core Paths access for the needs of that island or parish.

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The selection criteria used are as follows: • where possible they should have a positive management effect on the heritage. Is there community demand for the route? Does it link and support wider path networks • demand for the route was identified during or wider access rights consultations • there is a high level of current usage • Core Paths should link with other Core Paths • it is an already promoted path and/or wider path networks

Is it safe and fit for purpose? • Core Paths may provide links through enclosed farmland to open areas where access rights apply eg hill ground. • path design and infrastructure is adequate for the intended usage • major improvements are not needed to make Does it provide links for the community? the Core Path safe and fit orf purpose • where settlements exist there should be Core Is it consistent with access strategy? Paths which are easily accessible from the town or village, without the use of a car • Core Paths should contribute to the aims of • in settlements Core Paths should help people the Orkney Outdoor Access Strategy to access local amenity sites • in villages and towns Core Paths should help Is there potential for multi use? residents to access facilities such as schools, colleges, shops, sports centres etc. • a reasonable percentage of Core Paths in an area should be suitable for more than one use • Core Paths should be as barrier free as possible SUGGESTIONS FOR THE FUTURE to permit usage by a wide range of users eg gates instead of stiles. There were a number of suggestions and ideas that came forward during the consultations, Does the path provide access to amenity sites which do not form part of the current suite and/or sites with heritage interest? of proposed Core Paths.These were generally routes that required considerable planning and • there is a high demand in Orkney for access to implementation works before they could be coastal sites, including beaches considered fit for purpose, or where significant • there is a high demand for access to sites of issues remained unresolved. If these routes natural, historical or cultural heritage. were felt to be key routes for development in the future they have been included on the plan Does the path avoid/mitigate land maps as ‘aspirational’ routes. management or privacy issues?

• Core Paths over enclosed farmland should help STRATEGIC ENvIRONMENTAL to reduce conflicts between access users and ASSESSMENT land management, especially where there are livestock The Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act • Core Paths should not interfere with local 2005 requires that a Strategic Environmental resident’s privacy and peace of mind. Assessment (SEA) is carried out to assess the effects that the Core Paths Plan could have on Does the path assist management of the the environment. An Environmental Report heritage of the area? was produced to accompany the draft Core Paths Plan.The SEA process played a key • Core Paths and/or access users should not have part in developing the Plan and ensured that a negative impact on the natural, cultural or environmental considerations were fully taken built heritage into account.

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Orkney Core Paths Plan

2.1 NORTH RONALDSAy

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

The most northerly of the Orkney Islands, the • the coastal path follows the shoreline around small island of North Ronaldsay is an ideal size the whole island for a whole island coastal walk. One of the • a variety of short paths link the coastal path features of the island is the stone dyke which with the island’s roads, providing a range of follows the coastline and keeps the North circular paths of different lengths. Ronaldsay sheep on the shore.

ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features Coastal The path follows the sheep dyke Nr1 An 18 km whole island coastal path. Circular walk around the shore of the island. These routes provides links between the coastal route and the island’s Nr2 – Nr5 Short paths in the north of the island roads.They create a series of short circular routes in the north. A link from the road to open land at Nr6 Tor Ness A short linear path to Tor Ness Tor Ness and to the coastal path. These paths provide a variety of links across the south east corner of the Nr7 –Nr10 South East Short paths in the south of the island island.They link with the coast path and provide a range of circular routes.

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2.2 PAPA WESTRAy

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

Papa Westray is one of the smallest of Orkney’s • the coastal path follows the shoreline around north isles, being only 4 miles long and 1 mile the whole island wide.This makes it an ideal size for exploring • the coastal path links to the island’s quiet roads on foot for both residents and visitors. Despite creating a variety of routes of different lengths its small size it has a wealth of natural and • the paths provide access to key natural and historical heritage to explore. built heritage sites eg wildlife on North Hill and archaeology at the . ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features Papay coastal A 16 km route following the coastline Cliffs, sandy bays, lochs, archaeology PW1 circular route around the whole island. and wildlife. A 1 km linking path creating a short PW2 North Hill link A useful circular loop over North Hill. circular route on North Hill. North Hill A 1.4 km linking path creating a PW3 Access to RSPB reserve of North Hill. circular circular walk around North Hill. North Wick A short path linking the road to the PW4 Access to two attractive sandy bays. link coast at North and South Wick. This short route provides access to St Boniface’s PW5 the restored St Boniface ‘s Church The church and its setting. Church and the coastal route. A 0.7 km path passed Holland Farm dwellings, the traditional PW6 Knap of Howar to the Knap of Howar and the coastal steading and museum of Holland path. Farm. A link to the coastal path and PW7 South Wick the shore at South Wick from a Provides easy access to the coast. residential area and the school. A short link from the coastal path to St Tredwell’s The chapel ruins and wildlife on the PW8 the chapel ruins and the Loch of St Chapel loch Tredwell

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2.3 WESTRAy

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

Westray is the most north-westerly of the • a variety of circular loops which can be Orkney Islands. Its spreading shape provides accessed from the main town of it with a huge 80km coastline, with stunning • access to key sections of coastline including cliff scenery and sandy bays.The Core Paths cliffs and beaches. traverse much of this coastline, with grassy • access to important areas of natural and built lanes across the farmland and quiet roads heritage. helping people to access the coast.

ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features A 9 km coastal route along the west Provides access to sea bird colonies West Westray W1 coast of the island, with wild seas and at Noup Head and stunning cliff Walk dramatic cliffs. scenery. Enables access users to do a shorter Noup Head A 6 km circular route including part W2 stretch of the longer, linear coastal circular of the West Westray Walk. walk. A variety of circular routes from Allows access to the links and beach Pierowall to W3 Pierowall to Grobust (Longest route at Grobust . It also accesses key built Grobust about 6 km) heritage eg Noltland Castle Links Pierowall with the viewpoint at Public rights of way through farmland W4 Broughton of Roadmire, which is good for to the bay of Tuquoy. birdwatching. Provides a link to the West Westray Hill route linking with the West W5 Fitty Hill walk from the road.The views from Westray coastal walk. the hill are spectacular. A 6 km circular route along a rocky Tuquoy and Provides access to an attractive sandy W6 coastline to the beach at Mae Sands Mae Sands beach and to the Norse Cross Kirk. and returning by quiet roads. Circular route traversing Two coastlines, farmland, museum and W7 Skelwick from one side of the island to the shop. other. Circular route past the Castle o’ Castle o’ Burrian and Stanger Head, then Enables the public to view puffins at W8 Burrian and the across the peninsula to the sandy the Castle O’ Burrian. Bay of Tafts beach at the Bay of Tafts.

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2.4 SANDAy

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

Sanday derives its name from the • access to a range of sandy beaches and other for ‘sand island’ and it is well known for its areas of attractive coastline beautiful sandy bays and sand dunes. Not • access to key historical sites surprisingly the Core Paths focus on providing • a range of circular routes from Lady village access to the coastal landscapes. • Core Paths in all areas of the island.

ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features Burness and An 8 km circular route, which can be Access for residents in the Burness Sa1 the Holms of divided into two shorter loops. area and to the tidal Holms of Ire. ire Access to the lovely beach at Whitemill A 4.4 km circular route from Sa2 Whitemill and around the coast to Circular Whitemill to Ortie. the crofting village at Ortie. A useful circular walk for the north Scuthvie A 4.8 km circular route and a short Sa3 east of the island and access to the Circular link to Start Point. at Start Point. Access from lady village to the A 6 km linear route to Cata Sand and Sa4 Tresness beautiful sand dunes and beach at Tresness. Tresness. Lady village to A 5 km linear route to the Bay of Access from Lady village to the sandy Sa5 Newark Lopness near Newark. beach at Newark. A 6.6 km route to Elsness including Access to the Quoyness chambered Sa6 Elsness a shorter circular route south of lady cairn at Elsness, from Lady village. village. A useful link to Sa6 and access to the Sa7 Hammerbrake A short route to Little Sea. Little Sea. Over-the- A 1 km linear route to the Little Sea A useful linking route to the school Sa8 Water from the school. and to Sa10. Access to the sandy beach at Backaskaill A 5.5 km route along the shore, Sa9 Backaskaill.This route also links to Circular farmland tracks and rural road. Sa10. Broughtown A network of paths around A useful local network of paths for Sa10 Circular Broughtown. (Main route 3.1 km) residents in the area. Access to the stunning beach, dunes Sa11 Doun Helzie A 2 km linear route to Doun Helzie. and cliffs at Doun Helzie.

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2.5 EDAy

SUMMARy

Eday’s heather clad hills offer panoramic views over sea and islands and the coast has sheer cliffs and long sweeping beaches.The island has a rich archaeology and wildlife which can be enjoyed from its Core Paths.

KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

• access to the open heath in the north and south of the island • access to the coast, including high cliffs and sandy beaches • access to important Neolithic monuments • predominantly circular walks, of varying length

ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features The route passes Mill Loch and An 8 km circular route in the north Eday Heritage Neolithic chambered cairns on its Ed1 of the island over open heath to the walk way to the spectacular cliffs of the Red Head. Red Head. A route linking to the Eday Heritage Geology, bird cliffs and panoramic Ed2 Linkataing Walk and accessing the cliffs on the views are of interest along this path. west side. By incorporating the quiet road this A route linking to the Eday Heritage Ed3 Cusbay link creates a shorter circular route walk from Cusbay. including the chambered cairns. The various links create paths of A coastal, circular route with a variety Ed4 Stephen’s Gate different lengths. Cliffs with arches, of alternative links.(Longest 5km). stacks and nesting birds. A 2 km linear walk to Newark Bay The path starts at the visitor and Ed5 Newark and the Bay of Doomy. heritage centre. Sands of Access to the beaches of Mussetter This large sandy bay is a key amenity Ed6 Mussetter and Doomy. site on the island. A route over open hill with links to Ed8 and Ed9. It is within walking A circular hill route, following old peat Ed7 Leenisdale Hill distance of the ferry terminal and tracks. (Longest 4.4km) provides access for the community in the south of the island. Ward Hill is the highest point on the A short path to the summit of Ward Ed8 Ward Hill island with spectacular views.This Hill. route links Ed7 and Ed9. A 2.8 km circular coastal path around An easy circular walk in the south of Ed9 Warness Walk War Ness. the island, accessible from the pier.

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2.6 ROUSAy

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

Rousay is an unusually hilly island for Orkney, • each settlement area of the island has paths with extensive open moorland in the centre of • the paths provide access to the open hills and the island. It also has a rich history of settlement moorland and important monuments such as Midhowe • the paths provide access to important .The paths explore the hills, the coast and archaeology. the history.

ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features Easily accessible from the ferry R1 Avelshay A circular route of about 2km terminal. Good views across to Egilsay and Wyre. Two circular routes, the longer (6 The routes provide access to the RSPB R2 km) path reaching Knitchen Hill and wildlife and habitats of the reserve reserve Blotchnie Fiold avoiding sensitive breeding areas. A short linear path to the chambered This path provides access to the R3 Knowe of yarso cairn Knowe of yarso . A short linear path following the A short, but attractive walk with R4 Frotoft route of a burn views across to . A 1 km linear route accessing the The path provides access to Midhowe R5 Midhowe monuments on the Westness coast Broch and Midhowe Cairn. The path provides access to attractive A 3.5 km coastal walk in the north R6 Sacquoy Head coastal scenery in this region of the west of the island island. A 3.2 km circular path around this A wild headland with abundant R7 Faraclett Head headland in the north east of the wildlife and good views to the north island isles.

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2.7 EGILSAy AND WyRE

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

Egilsay and Wyre are two of the smallest of • the paths access key natural and historical Orkney’s inhabited islands but are rich in features on the islands wildlife and history. • the paths are easily accessible from the ferry terminals ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features Egilsay RSPB A 2 km linear route across the island The path crosses the RSPB reserve E1 reserve from the pier. and ends at an attractive beach. St Magnus A short path to the church and An easy walk to the island’s key built E2 Church centotaph. heritage. The path provides access to Cubbie Cubbie Roo’s A 2 km linear walk passed the island’s W1 Roo’s Castle, the chapel, heritage Castle key points of interest, to the coast. centre and onto the coast by Cavit.

2.8 STRONSAy

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

Stronsay is often described as being ‘all arms • disabled access to the vat of Kirbister and legs’ because of the large bays which bite • access to beautiful beaches and cliff scenery into the island.The Core Paths access these • circular routes. bays and the cliffs and rocky shores between them.

ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features A 3 km route linking the village to the Whitehall to St Beautiful sandy beaches easily S1 beach at Ayre of the Myers and St Catherine’s Bay accessible from Whitehall village. Catherine’s Bay. Rothiesholm A 6 km circular route including beach, Rothiesholm Sands is a key amenity S2 Circular loch, rocky shore and historic sites site. A short walk to the vat of Kirbister and a longer circular walk (10 km) Spectacular cliff scenery including the S3 vat of Kirbister around Odin Bay and the Bay of gloup at the vat of Kirbister. Houseby. Provides access to two hides – one A 2 km circular walk starting at S4 Holland circular for seals on the coast and the other Holland Farm for birds on Lea Shun A longer (3.5 km) walk from Holland Low cliffs, a sandy beach, and circular S5 Tor Ness Farm to Tor Ness kelp pits

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2.9 SHAPINSAy

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

Shapinsay has a variety of tracks criss-crossing • a good selection of tracks across farmland that the farmland which can be used to access the link with quiet roads to make circular routes countryside and the coast. • access to the main beach on the island • access to Burroughston Broch • access from Balfour village and the ferry pier. ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features A 9 km circular route along tracks Access to the RSPB bird hide at Mill Mill Dam Sh1 and quiet roads, with an extension to Dam. A circular route accessible from circular Salt Ness. the village and the ferry pier. This is one of three routes which Sh2 veantrow Bay A 1.8 km linear path to veantrow Bay. provide access to the long sandy beach in the bay. Another access to the beach and also Sh3 The Ouse A 1.4 km linear route to the Ouse. the Ouse at low tide. A 3.7 km circular route including Ward Hill is a good viewpoint on the Sh4 Ward Hill Ward Hill. island. A 4.7 km route along tracks and out East Hill is an attractive area of open Sh5 East Hill to East Hill. heath. A 0.7 km linear route to the beach at This route accesses the beach at Sh6 Skenstoft Skenstoft. Skenstoft. Burroughston A 3.5 km route accessing Burroughston Broch is the key Sh7 Broch and Burroughston Broch and the north historical site on the island. Sandy Geo east coast.

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2.10 KIRKWALL AND ST OLA

SUMMARy

Kirkwall is surrounding by attractive countryside and coastline which is easily accessible from the town.The Core Paths focus on access to key amenity sites and on getting around the town.

KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

• access to key amenity sites such as Scapa Beach • access from the town to nearby countryside • access between schools and residential areas

ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features These routes access the harbour 3 short routes close to the Peedie K1/K2/K3 Peedie Sea front, the Peedie Sea and provide links Sea. for the Glaitness area.. A 4.5 km path to Wideford Hill, A useful multi-user path through Muddisdale and K4/K6 including shorter routes around Muddisdale for local residents, plus Wideford Hill Muddisdale. access to the Wideford Hill Cairn. K5 Sunnybank A short link off the Sunnybank Road A useful local linking path. Orkney A short route linking the college with K7 An off road link to Orkney College. College the town. Useful links between Papdale primary KGS and various routes around the primary K8/K9 school, Kirkwall Grammar School and Papdale and secondary schools. the Papdale housing area. A very popular path on the edge of Seatter A 1.5 km linear route near Seatter K10 the town. It can be linked to K9 by a Bridleway Farm. quiet road. A 2.2 km path onto the headland Access to an attractive headland near K11 Head of Work passed Work. the town. Access tracks around the Tradespark Useful links between the town and K12 Tradespark area. K15. Multi-user access to a very popular K13 Crantit Trail A 1.5 km path to Scapa Bay. beach. The beach is a key amenity site for A 2 km route along Scapa Beach and K14 Scapa Bay Kirkwall and the cliff path is well used, the adjacent cliffs with good views of the bay. Good countryside access close to the K15 Wideford Farm A 4.3 km path from Inganess to Scapa town which can be linked with K12 and K13.

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2.11 TANKERNESS

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

Tankerness forms part of the East Mainland • access to wartime heritage of Orkney and is almost entirely enclosed • access to the coast farmland, with the large Loch of Tankerness in • access to the Loch of Tankerness its centre. ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features This path provides access to the A 2.3 km path along the coast in the T1 Airport coastal beach at Inganess Bay and links with south west of the parish. K15. A linear, 1.4km public right of way, The loch is good for bird watching Tankerness T2 alongside Tankerness Loch in the and the wetlands are colourful with Loch centre of Tankerness. wild flowers in summer. The path provides access to a A 1km circular path around Rerwick T3 Rerwick Head wartime coastal battery, interesting Head in the north east of the parish. geology and good views to the north.

2.12 DEERNESS

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

Deerness is joined to the rest of the East • access to the local nature reserve at Mull Head. Mainland by a narrow isthmus at Dingieshowe • disabled access to at Mull Head. and St Peter’s Pool.The Core Paths network • access to popular beaches and stretches of begins with the lovely sandy beach at coastline. Dingieshowe and includes other popular stretches of the coastline. ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features A 5.6km circular path around Mull This route provides access to D1 Mull Head Head. Orkney’s local nature reserve. A 1.2 km linear path between Mull An important link between D1 and D2 Mull Head link Head and the Covenanter’s Memorial D3. car park. A 2.5 km route to Covenanter’s An important route linking with D1 Covenanter’s D3 Memorial and along the coast and D3 and providing access to the Memorial towards Mull Head. memorial. A 1.8 km linear route including D4 Newark Bay Newark Bay and the coast to Newark Bay is a popular beach. Aikerskaill. An important path providing access A 3.4 km path from Dingieshowe to D5 Dingieshowe to Dingieshowe and along an Newark. attractive coast. It links to D4.

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2.13 HOLM

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

The parish of Holm forms the southern part • outdoor access opportunities directly linked to of the East Mainland.The village of St Marys is the village of St Marys the main settlement area and lies on the south • access to the wartime heritage of the area coast, which is the main focus of the Core • access to natural heritage and coastal scenery Paths.

ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features Howequoy A 3.2km circular path around the A path directly accessible from the H1 Circular coast of Howequoy Head. village of St Marys. The path starts at the village of St H2 St Marys A 2.2 km walk linking with H3. Marys and links the village with H3. Graemeshall A 2.2 km circular route around East This route provides access to the H3 circular Breckan. Graemeshall wartime battery. A 3km linear coastal route to the This route provides access to a H4 Roseness point at Roseness. popular headland and coastline.

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2.14 HOy

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

The island of Hoy is more reminiscent of the • access to the Hoy RSPB reserve highlands of Scotland than the green islands • access to the of Orkney.As a result access over the hills is • access from the ferry pier to Rackwick not something to be taken lightly.The weather can change rapidly and unless walkers are well prepared and able to read a map it can be dangerous.Therefore the core paths on the island are focused on providing safe access to the beautiful landscape and key heritage sites. From these paths it is possible for the serious walker to access the open hills. ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features Moaness to A 7 km route from Moaness Pier to A very popular route for visitors to H1 Rackwick Rackwick. the island. This route provides access to one Old Man of H2 A 4 km walk to the Old Man of Hoy. of the most well known features in Hoy Orkney. A short walk to the bothy and the The beach is a very important H3 Rackwick Beach beach at Rackwick. amenity site. This path provides access to a very H4 A short walk to the Dwarfie Stane. well known Neolithic monument. Two alternative routes to Scad Head These paths provide access to the H5 Scad Head which can be linked into a circular wartime heritage at Scad Head. route.

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2.15 NORTH AND SOUTH WALLS

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

The moorland hills of North Walls are wild and • access to the hills open and can be difficult to navigate for walkers • coastal paths .The Core Paths which access the southern hills • access to historical and natural heritage. provide safe access to this landscape and offer some lovely views. For experienced walkers these routes can act as a starting point for exploring further.

In contrast South Walls is a low lying peninsula with a coastline of cliffs, bays and links. The Core Paths focus on this stunning coast.

ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features Wee Fea is a good viewpoint, provides access to wartime heritage Wa1 Wee Fea A 1.5 km track to Wee Fea. and is accessible from the ferry pier. A 3 km peat track route to Heldale These tracks provide access to the Wa2 Heldale Water Water and Binga Fea. southern hills. Access to an attractive stretch of A 2.6 km path from Melsetter to coastline and a starting point for Wa3 Melsetter Torness longer walks along the west coast or into the hills. A 1 km path around the coastline of Wa4 Good access fro residents in this area. Brims. Hill of White A 2 km linear path along the south A beautiful coastline and the path Wa5 Hammars coast. links to Wa6. Circular paths (approx 4 km) around These routes provide good access to Wa6 Snelsetter the Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve. the nature reserve. A 1.8 km linear route to Cantick The is a key point of Wa7 Cantick Head Head lighthouse. interest in South Walls.

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2.16 BURRAy

SUMMARy

Burray is linked to the Mainland and South Ronaldsay by the , but still retains its island feel. It has beautiful beaches to explore and plenty of natural and built heritage.

KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

• access opportunities from Burray village • access to important amenity sites, especially beaches

ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features A 3.6 km network of paths around A useful network for residents in this B1 Hillside Hillside. area. Westhill to A 1.3 km path from the village to the A useful link between the village, B2 Littlequoy west of the island. and B1. These paths provide access between B3/B4/B5 Burray village Three short routes around the village. different areas of the village and link to the coast. A short route along the Fourth The Fourth Barrier beach is a key B6 Fourth Barrier Barrier beach. amenity site for Burray. A path leading from the cemetery Bu Sands is a key amenity site for B7 Bu Sands along Bu Sands. Burray. Access to wartime heritage and a A 2.4 km circular walk around the B8 Northfield broch, as well as good views across to headland at Northfield. the Churchill Barriers. Access along the beach at Glimpshom beach is a popular B9 Glimpsholm Glimpsholm. amenity site.

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2.17 SOUTH RONALDSAy

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

The long, narrow island of South Ronaldsay is • a long distance coastal path linked to Burray at the Fourth Barrier. It has a • paths linking to the coastal route very extensive and attractive coastline which is • access to beaches such as Newark and the much used for outdoor access. Sands of Wright • access to wartime heritage at Hoxa Head. ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features A long distance coastal route which A 12 km linear route along the east SR1 East Coast path can be extended to include S2 and coast of South Ronaldsay. S3. South Coast A 4 km linear route along the south Forms part of a longer distance SR2 path coast of the island. coastal path around South Ronaldsay. West Coast A 7 km linear path along the west Another important link in the South SR3 path coast. Ronaldsay coastal path. 2 paths linking with the east coast These paths provide exit/entry routes SR4/ SR5 East Coast links path for SR1. South Coast This route enables access users to do SR6 A short path linking with SR2. link a circular walk from Burwick Oyce of A useful off road route for local SR7 A short path linking two roads. Herston residents. Oyce of A 2 km linear route along the shore A popular route for residents in the SR8 Quindry of the Oyce of Quindry. area. A 3.3 km path from the Sands of A route which can be accessed SR9 Dam of Hoxa Wright, passed the Dam of Hoxa and from St Margaret’s Hope and has back towards St Margaret’s Hope. interesting natural heritage. A 2 km circular walk around Hoxa This path accesses the wartime SR10 Hoxa Head Head. battery at Hoxa. St Margaret’s A short walk from St Margaret;s SR11 A useful short path for local residents. Hope Hope.

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2.18 FLOTTA

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

Strategically situated in the island of Flotta had an important role as a military • a mixture of quiet roads and off road tracks base in two world wars.This heritage is easily provide a good network of routes. explored by following Flotta’s paths. • the paths access much of the wartime heritage.

ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features F1 West Hill A 7.5 km circular coastal path on the An attractive coastal path passing a circular west side of the island. number of wartime heritage features. F2 West Hill A short link to a viewpoint from F1. This link provides a view over the viewpoint island. F3 Kirk Bay A 2.5 km circular route in the centre This route links with F1 and accesses circular of the island. Flotta Kirk and the war memorial. F4 Stanger Head A 2.7 km linear path to Stanger Head. The path accesses the wartime heritage at Stanger Head and the dramatic cliff scenery.

2.19 GRAEMSAy

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK

Graemsay is a small, farmed island at the • circular routes reaching most corners of the northern entrance to Scapa Flow. It is almost island. devoid of traffic which makes it ideal for • all the circular routes link together. outdoor access. • most of the circuits include a stretch of coastline. • routes are easily accessible from the pier for visitors. ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Name/Location Description Key Features Graemsay A 3 km circular route around the This path has good views all around, G1 central circuit centre of the island on a quiet road. towards Hoy and the mainland. A 3.7 km circular route linking Access to the coast and a view of G2 Fillets circular with G1. Hoy Low. Kirk and Crow A 2.5 km circular route starting from Easily accessible for visitors from the G3 Taing near the pier. pier and links to G1. Ramray A 2.3 km circular route including a Links to G1 and allows another G4 Circular stretch of rocky coastline. stretch of coast to be explored.

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2.20 THE WEST MAINLAND

SUMMARy KEy FEATURES OF THE NETWORK • a long distance coastal walk from to Rich farmland, hill and moorland scenery and , including some of the best coastal an extensive coastline give the West Mainland scenery on the mainland a variety of landscapes for outdoor access • local path networks for Stromness, and users to enjoy.The spectacular cliff scenery along the Atlantic coastline, contrasts with the • access to key amenity and heritage sites. gentler shores of Scapa Flow and all the coasts have their stunning sandy bays.There are also important historic settlements such as and on the .

ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS

Routes Description Key Features • access to key stretches of coastline in including Waulkmill • access to the and Orphir hills, including West Mainland Core Paths in the parishes of Orphir, Ward Hill and Keelylang South East Stenness and • access to the World Heritage Site at Brodgar and • access to Binscarth Woods • access to the and Birsay hills West Mainland Core Paths in Harray, Evie and • a network of paths around Dounby North East • access to Evie Sands • a coastal path from Birsay to Skaill, including the bird cliffs at Marwick Head West Mainland Core Paths in Birsay and Sandwick • routes linking to the coastal path North West • access to the Brough of Birsay • Russland Drover’s Road linking to Dounby West Mainland Core Paths in Sandwick and • a coastal path from Skaill to Stromness South West Stromness • a network of paths around Stromness

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