Built between 1569 & 1574 this was the palace, castle and home of the Earl of Orkney in the late 1500's. Its use was short lived however with the overthrow of the Stewart Earls in 1615. Records from Cromwell’s troops in 1653 suggest that the castle was already falling into disrepair and the roof was down by 1700.
Today it's a surprisingly intact ruin which you can explore. Managed by Historic Environment Scotland it's open all year and free to visit.

Adie

April 25, 2023

Hiking

The Earls' Palace stands by the shore of Birsay Bay, and was constructed in the 1570-80's around a central courtyard and well, with large stone towers at three of the four corners, making it as much a fortress as a palace.

The site is anaged by Historic Environment Scotland and is open all year and free to visit.

Bear S.

August 15, 2024

Hiking

Place with a long history. A 15 minute stop is enough. When you're up there, be sure to check out Brough of Bersay and Barony Mill.

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Best Hikes to Earl's Palace Birsay

5.0

(2)

hikers

1. Brough of Birsay and Earl's Palace loop — Orkney Islands

11.0km

02:53

80m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

5.0

(7)

hikers

2. Brough of Birsay Causeway – Earl's Palace Birsay loop from Birsay

7.21km

01:53

60m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.8

(5)

hikers

3. Brough of Birsay Causeway – Earl's Palace Birsay loop from Birsay

4.53km

01:11

30m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Details

Informations

Elevation 10 m

Weather

Today

Monday 26 January

6°C

3°C

39 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 44.0 km/h

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Location: Birsay, Orkney islands, Scotland, United Kingdom

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Earl's Palace Birsay

1. Brough of Birsay and Earl's Palace loop — Orkney Islands

2. Brough of Birsay Causeway – Earl's Palace Birsay loop from Birsay

3. Brough of Birsay Causeway – Earl's Palace Birsay loop from Birsay

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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