Short birdwatching visit · RSPB
Brodgar
Stennes · KW16 3JZ
Brodgar combines freshwater birdwatching with Orkney's Neolithic landscape between the lochs of Harray and Stenness. The grassy reserve supports breeding waders, and its open setting makes it possible to watch both fields and water during one short walk. In spring the sounds and displays of Curlew, Snipe and Lapwing are part of its appeal. In winter the surrounding lochs attract wildfowl. A flower-rich meadow adds summer interest beside the trail near the Ring of Brodgar.
Birds and seasons
- Curlew — Typically spring and summer
- Snipe — Typically spring and summer
- Lapwing — Typically year-round
- Golden Plover — Typically autumn and winter
Plan your visit
- Hides and viewpoints
- Birdwatching is from the public trail and open viewpoints.
- Paths
- A wide grassy trail has gentle inclines, muddy sections and two benches; there are no steps or stiles.
- Toilets
- No reserve toilets; facilities are in Stenness and Finstown.
- Parking
- Use the Ring of Brodgar car park, which has Blue Badge spaces.
- Dogs
- Keep dogs close, preferably on a short lead, during breeding season and around livestock.
- Accessibility
- The approach includes a boardwalk, road crossing and rough grassy ground.
Getting there: The reserve is reached from the Ring of Brodgar public car park.
Sources
Social preview photograph: Common Starling standing in grass in Oxfordshire. Charles J. Sharp · CC BY-SA 3.0. Resized and converted for the preview.
Continue birding nearby
Nearest full guide: RSPB Cottascarth and Rendall Moss, 6.0 miles away in a straight line.