Shapinsay, Island and civil parish in Orkney Islands, Scotland
Shapinsay extends over 29.5 square kilometers of fertile land formed by Old Red Sandstone bedrock and boulder clay in the North Sea.
The island's first documented mention dates to 1375, with Neolithic standing stones indicating early settlements and continuous human presence through centuries.
The Heritage Centre preserves local traditions while the island maintains strong agricultural practices, particularly in beef and lamb production for export.
Regular ferry services connect Shapinsay to Kirkwall with six daily crossings, each taking 25 minutes to complete the journey.
Mill Dam nature reserve hosts numerous bird species, including curlew, redshank, and tern colonies along the shoreline.
Location: Orkney Islands
Part of: Orkney Islands
GPS coordinates: 59.04890,-2.85867
Latest update: March 6, 2025 00:57
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