Season: winter
The Bay of Skaill is a well known Orkney beach, not least due to the presence at its southern tip of Skara Brae, the remarkably well preserved Neolithic village, which was inhabited five thousand years ago. The high quality of the excavations is striking, a vivid and immersive spotlight on genuinely ancient times. The rediscovered workshop is a particular highlight. The beach itself curves pleasingly, facing the Atlantic and its long sets of waves. Regardless of the heritage on view, this beach is a favourite family visitor attraction. The south side of the bay also features Hole o’ Rowe, a sea arch through which the sea erupts on a stormy day. One further attraction is the 1620 mansion, Skaill House.
With Mary, the Monument Manager at neolithic Skara Brae, by the beach at Bay of Skaill.
The scene at Bay of Skaill on a winter afternoon.
The beach means clean energy and peace, a chance to see the world as it should be.