An inland walk to the heart of the West Mainland.

Locations Standing Stone Public Convenience
ThemeGrowth
Length10.2 miles (16.6 km)
TerrainGentle road and track walking with some inclines but no steep sections.
Total ascent184m
Boardhouse road section4.7 miles (7.5 km)
Beaquoy road section1.6 miles (2.5 km)
Total off road3.9 miles (6.6 km)
Time4-6 hours

The second section of the St Magnus Way begins at St Magnus Kirk in Birsay and ends at the Milestone Kirk in Dounby. Our theme for the journey is Growth. We reflect on the growth of the cult of St Magnus in the years following his death and the shifting base of power from West to East Orkney. The tradition of Mans Stanes continues with one still visible at Strathyre.

The Way takes us through both farmed and natural landscape rich in growth. We ask ourselves:

  • Who has inspired me to grow as a person? Why have they been so influential?
  • What circumstances in my life have helped me to grow?
  • In what areas of my life do I feel I have the most room to grow?
  • How aware am I of growth beyond what is healthy whether overreaching or overachieving?

IMPORTANT. Please read the Advice for Pilgrims about what to expect in respect of weather, coast, roads, and land on the St Magnus Way website.

Our website also has a detailed map, a route description and a gpx file for use with mapping software..

This project is being part financed by the Scottish Government and the European Community Orkney LEADER 2014 – 2020 Programme