Short birdwatching visit · RSPB
North Hill
Papa Westray · KW17 2BU
North Hill on Papa Westray combines maritime heath with low sea cliffs and an open coastal walk. Puffin, Black Guillemot, Razorbill and Kittiwake are among the seabirds named by the RSPB. The wildflower-rich heath provides further spring and summer interest, including Scottish Primrose. Coastal routes and the coastguard observation hut give different ways to appreciate the setting. The terrain is rough and exposed, and visitors should follow the marked public trails around sensitive wildlife areas.
Birds and seasons
- Puffin — Typically spring and summer
- Black Guillemot — Typically year-round
- Razorbill — Typically spring and summer
- Kittiwake — Typically spring and summer
Plan your visit
- Hides and viewpoints
- The coastguard observation hut provides an enclosed watching space.
- Paths
- Circular coastal trails cross unsurfaced slopes, boggy ground and ladder stiles.
- Toilets
- No reserve toilets; facilities are listed at the hostel and Kelp Store.
- Parking
- There is limited parking for one or two vehicles at the reserve entrance.
- Dogs
- Keep dogs close, preferably on a short lead, during breeding season and around cattle.
- Accessibility
- The hut approach is steep and grassy, with a narrow gate and doorway.
Getting there: Arrange travel to Papa Westray first; the reserve has only limited entrance parking.
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 Noup Cliffs, 6.8 miles away in a straight line.