South Ronaldsay is the southernmost island in the chain of Orkney Islands. It is linked to the mainland by the 4
th Churchill Barrier and is the closest island to Scotland. It is only six miles north of John O'Groats. If you don't want to drive to this island, ferries run on a regular basis from John O'Groats to Burwick or from Gills Bay to St. Margaret's Hope. The main village on the island is St. Margaret's Hope and it is here you will find the Smiddy Museum, where you will see tools and artefacts of a long gone craft.
The history of St. Margaret's Hope dates back to the 11
th century, when it was named for Margaret, wife of Malcolm III. It was also the site where Margaret, Maid of Norway, died in 1290 at the age of eight. This little girl held the union of Scotland and England in her hands because she was pledged in marriage to Edward I of England. Had she lived, it would have changed the course of Scottish history.
Make sure that you visit South Ronaldsay in time for the annual Boys' Ploughing Match. This tradition of boys using miniature ploughs dates back hundreds of years. The horses wear elaborate costumes and the boys compete for the prizes. The horses are judges and the children taking part in the competition are also dressed in costumes reflecting the earlier eras.
Visit the Tomb of Eagles where excavations uncovered the remains of eight white–tailed seal eagles along with that of human remains. The cairns show that this islands was inhabited by people long before recorded history and possibly held the eagle in high–esteem.
The trail around the island will take you through spectacular scenery. The interesting streets of St. Margaret's Hope give you the impression that you have stepped back in time. Although fishing is not as important here as it once was the harbour is still an active place. Bird watching enthusiasts flock to the island to see the many species of nesting birds. Shoppers will delight in the tapestries at the Hoxa Tapestry Gallery and the other quaint stores in town, where they will surely return home with items unique to the Orkney Isles.
John O'Groats to Orkney Ferry – Day Tours of Orkney All Summer – Ferry service between John O'Groats and Orkney – Day Tours of Orkney all summer from 1
st May to 30
th September.
