CLOSE Know what you are looking for? Use these quick links to find what you want faster...
Part of the NEW Orkney snorkel trail!
Prepare for a truly unique, unforgettable and perhaps even emotional experience, snorkelling along the Churchill Barriers and around these wartime shipwrecks in Scapa Flow.
The barriers and wrecks are incredible artificial
reefs for marine life. Discover deadman’s fingers,
sticklebacks, scorpionfish and colourful nudibranchs.
The barriers provide shelter from wind and swell,
meaning great options for most weather conditions.
At the north end of Barrier 3, east side, there is a steep
drop at the carpark and the seabed drops off suddenly
shortly after entry. Weever fish, seen occasionally
here, can sting if stood on without boots/fins.
By road
The Churchill Barriers act as causeways, connecting by road mainland Orkney with the isles of Lamb Holm, Glimps Holm, Burray and South Ronaldsay. These sites are accessible by public transport (bus).
Provided by Google Maps
Here is the wind forecast and tide times for this snorkel site. It is your responsibility to assess whether these conditions are suitable for snorkelling.
Other considerations
Please be a responsible snorkeller; do not touch, take or tease wildlife.
Weever fish, seen occasionally here, can sting if stood on without boots/fins.
The barriers provide shelter from wind and swell, meaning great options for most weather conditions.
At the north end of Barrier 3, east side, there is a steep drop at the carpark and the seabed drops off suddenly shortly after entry.
Wrecks can pose various risks to snorkellers. Don’t attempt to enter or climb on the wrecks, or the Churchill Barriers.
Snorkelling can be dangerous and is done entirely at your own risk. Information is provided free of charge; it is your responsibility to check the conditions present on the day and assess whether it is safe to snorkel.
Please read our top tips to being a safe and responsible snorkeller.
Share your snorkel stories #ScottishSnorkelTrails
We have worked hard with coastal communities and organisations across Scotland to create these snorkel trails, to:
We would therefore love to hear your feedback on how you’ve found using them! From photos, videos and artwork to posts, blogs and more – every piece of little or large feedback will be read and valued! You can share them with us via email (livingseas@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk), Facebook (@Scottish Wildlife Trust) or Bluesky (@scotwildlife.bsky.social) – use the #ScottishSnorkelTrails.
FURTHER READING
Nearby reserves
Inganess Bay
Finstown
Shapinsay, Elwick Bay
Hoy, The Ayre (Hoy and South Walls Causeway)
Stronsay, Ayre of Myres
Local group
Local Group 1
