Holm of Papa Island
Uninhabited Orkney islet with early church remains
A small islet off Orkney, Holm of Papa appeals to boaters and birdwatchers and to visitors interested in coastal archaeology and seabird colonies.
Holm of Papa at a Glance#
Admission: Free
How to Get to Holm of Papa#
Access by private boat from Orkney mainland harbors. Landing depends on sea state; hire an experienced local skipper and check tidal conditions before attempting landings.
Tips for Visiting Holm of Papa#
- This small Orkney islet may have restrictions during bird-nesting season - observe any local signage.
- Landing can be difficult in rough seas; use experienced local skippers if arriving by boat.
- Pack water and protection from wind; there are no services on the island.
Best Time to Visit Holm of Papa#
Summer months are the best time for visiting small Orkney islets due to calmer seas and easier landings.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
June-August · 8-15°C (46-59°F)
Calmest seas and best for landing; birdlife is most active.
Late Spring / Early Autumn (May & Sep)
May, September · 6-12°C (43-54°F)
Quieter but weather is less predictable.
Weather & Climate near Holm of Papa#
Climate
Continental climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 3°C to 15°C. Abundant rainfall (1096 mm/year), wettest in November.
Air Quality:
AQI 19
Good
Best Time to Visit
JuneMayJuly
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
18°
Warmest Month
0°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | 3° - 7° | 0° | 115 mm | overcast | 81% | 8.4 m/s | 0.0 low | 6.7h |
| February | Poor | 3° - 7° | 0° | 90 mm | overcast | 81% | 8.1 m/s | 0.1 low | 9.0h |
| March | Poor | 3° - 7° | 0° | 101 mm | overcast | 82% | 7.8 m/s | 0.2 low | 11.6h |
| April | Poor | 4° - 8° | 2° | 67 mm | overcast | 84% | 6.7 m/s | 0.6 moderate | 14.3h |
| May | Acceptable | 6° - 11° | 5° | 49 mm | overcast | 84% | 5.8 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 16.8h |
| June | Acceptable | 8° - 13° | 10° | 54 mm | overcast | 87% | 5.4 m/s | 1.2 high | 18.2h |
| July | Acceptable | 10° - 14° | 12° | 60 mm | overcast | 89% | 5.2 m/s | 1.1 high | 17.5h |
| August | Acceptable | 10° - 15° | 12° | 73 mm | overcast | 87% | 5.2 m/s | 0.8 moderate | 15.3h |
| September | Poor | 9° - 13° | 11° | 106 mm | overcast | 86% | 6.4 m/s | 0.4 low | 12.6h |
| October | Poor | 7° - 11° | 6° | 124 mm | overcast | 83% | 7.3 m/s | 0.1 low | 10.0h |
| November | Poor | 5° - 9° | 3° | 134 mm | overcast | 81% | 7.6 m/s | 0.0 low | 7.4h |
| December | Poor | 4° - 8° | 1° | 123 mm | overcast | 81% | 7.9 m/s | 0.0 low | 5.9h |
