Visit Shapinsay Heritage Centre

Getting There

Ferry Service: Ferries to Shapinsay depart regularly from Kirkwall. You can check the latest schedules and book tickets on the Orkney Ferries website

View Ferry Schedule

Heritage Centre Location

The Shapinsay Heritage Centre is situated in the village of Balfour, which is where the ferry docks. As you disembark at Elwick Bay, you'll see Balfour Castle and the surrounding village. The Heritage Centre is located above the Smithy.

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Visiting Tips

  • Check the Heritage Centre is Open: We are run by volunteers and sometimes have to close at short notice.
  • Check Ferry Times: Make sure to verify ferry times, especially if you plan to visit during weekends or holidays. The ferry service might have different schedules or additional sailings, which can be checked on the Orkney Ferries website.
  • Out of Hours Service: An additional out-of-hours ferry service is available, but it requires advance booking, typically with two weeks' notice (Shapinsay)​.
  • Weather Conditions: All sailings are weather-dependent, so keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared for possible cancellations.