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To see upcoming events please visit the Events page.
Explore Orkney in autumn thanks to new guided walks on the St Magnus Way.
The 58-mile multi-stage walking route was launched as part of the ‘Magnus 900’ commemorations in 2017 to mark the 900th anniversary of the martyrdom of Magnus, the patron saint of the islands.
The route follows part of the journey his body was taken on following his murder in Egilsay, including cliff walks, beaches, villages and beautiful Orcadian scenery.
The summer months are the best time to tackle the St Magnus Way, but autumn brings a change in light and landscape. If you’d like to walk the route in the company of local folk, free guided walks will be available throughout September and October – view the full schedule below:
- Egilsay: Saturday, Sept 7th
- Gurness to Birsay: Sunday, Sept 15th
- Birsay to Dounby: Saturday, Sept 21st
- Dounby to Finstown: Sunday, Sept 29th
- Finstown to Orphir: Saturday, Oct 5th
- Orphir to Kirkwall: Sunday, Oct 13th
For all the walks people need to be reasonably able walkers. Waterproof and warm clothing, including waterproof trousers or gaiters for walking through wet vegetation, are essential. Brightly coloured or high-vis clothing is also advisable since all sections have some road walking.
Walkers should bring snacks and at least one litre of water, sensible walking shoes or boots that are broken in, and a mobile phone with a charge in it. Transport should also be arranged at the end of each route if a car isn’t left beforehand.
All ages are welcome, and dogs must be on a short lead at all times. As these walks will be at the end of summer and approaching autumn, they may be subject to changes due to weather.
To book a place, or to find out more, email Stuart at smwwalks@outlook.com, check out the St Magnus Way Facebook page, or visit the official website, including the 'Advice for Pilgrims' tab.