The Kelp Store
Papa Westray
KW17 2BU
We are now taking bookings for tours, please email, call or message Jonathan the Papay Ranger for information regarding dates and availability.
Join the Papay Ranger on a guided tour of Papa Westray, a journey through the archaeological and natural heritage of this special island. Please note that the last date for tours in 2024 will be the 12th of August.
On arrival by boat or perhaps on the world's shortest scheduled flight from Westray, you will embark on a full day tour taking in the sights and sounds of Papay, with time to relax and soak in the unique atmosphere of the island along the way.
The guided tour takes in the archaeological and natural heritage of Papay. You'll see the oldest standing houses in Northern Europe at the 5,000 year old Neolithic farmstead of the Knap of Howar. Also included is a trip to St Boniface Kirk, a beautifully restored twelfth century church on the site of an earlier Celtic chapel, and the impressive steading of Holland Farm, a busy working farm featuring buildings from as far back as the 1600s.
For 2023 guests can request a packed lunch for the tour from Northern Delights, the Papay cafe. We will take our lunch at the Kelp Store Craft & Heritage Centre with tea and coffee provided. Afterwards, you'll be taken to the RSPB North Hill reserve to see the beautiful maritime heath and all its wildflowers, including Primula scotica. You might also catch sight of nesting puffins and Arctic and great skuas at the cliffs of Fowl Craig.
Visitors should bring appropriate clothing with stout walking boots and waterproofs recommended. Binoculars are very handy too.
The Papay Peedie Tour runs from the beginning of April to the end of September on any day of the week. Private tours are also available at any time, these tours can be tailored to particular interests or sites. Bird watching tours, archaeology tours, which can include a trip to the Holm of Papay. Get in touch to discuss options.
In addition to the Papay Peedie Tours, boat trips to the nearby Holm of Papay are also now available. Visit to see the Holm's Neolithic South Cairn, complete with 67ft long subterranean passage, carved decorations and chambers. The boat trips are dependent on weather - email papayranger@gmail.com to book, leave a message at 07970 732615 or visit the Papay Ranger facebook page.
Other Details
Full day tour with lunch - £55 adults, £30 children (5-15) cash or card on the day preferred, booking is essential.