Once though to be a place where witches and thieves were banished, the small island of Shapinsay is rich in history. The King of Norway assembled a fleet off the coast of Balfour, the main village on the island, in 1263. The ferry from Kirkwall lands here six times a day, so visitors do not have any problems with transportation. When you purchase your return ticket at Kirkwall, you also get an admission ticket for Balfour Castle, the best–known tourist attraction on the island.
This island was owned by the Balfour family and in 1848, the laird, David Balfour built the castle. The grid formed by the roads on the island are largely due to Balfour's interest in turning the land into farmland and today these roads divide the island into 10 well–drained squares. The mill and gasworks were built at this time as well. The village was originally known as Shore side, but Balfour convinced the local post office to rename the village after him.
Balfour Castle is the most northerly one in the world and can easily be seen from Kirkwall. Visitors can choose to stay here as it does have accommodations for 12 people, but there are sections of it open for public tours. Weddings often take place here with the wedding chapel and facilities for hosting receptions. The gardens outside consist of two acres of walled gardens. It is only a short walk from the ferry to the castle and many visitors make the trek on a daily basis.
The Smithy is now a museum, where you can see many artefacts from Shapinsay's past. However, the most unusual sight in Shapinsay is Dishan Tower. It was originally built so that the residents could take a saltwater shower, but visitors to Shapinsay can relax. You don't have to bathe in salt water here any longer.
Orkney Ferries: Shapinsay – This ferry operates between Shapinsay and the Mainland (Kirkwall).