Papa Stronsay

Island Small Orkney island home to a monastic community

Papa Stronsay, one of the Orkney islands, sees visitors interested in seabirds, coastal walks and quiet island life; it also hosts a small monastic community and crofting landscapes.

Main image
Papa Stronsay
Papa Stronsay, Orkney, Scotland
59.1500, -2.5833

How to Get to Papa Stronsay #

Access is by private boat from the Orkney mainland; there are occasional charter services from Kirkwall depending on season and weather. Visitors should coordinate with local operators in advance.

Tips for Visiting Papa Stronsay #

  • If visiting, respect the monastic routines of the island - it is an active religious community with strict schedules.
  • Island is very small and remote; bring any necessities with you as there are no tourist facilities.
  • Be mindful of photo restrictions inside monastic buildings and ask permission.

Best Time to Visit Papa Stronsay #

Summer offers the easiest access and most settled weather for a visit to remote Orkney islets.

Summer
June-Aug · 8-16°C
Calmer seas and more reliable boat access; long daylight hours ideal for exploring.
Late spring
May-June · 6-12°C
Bird nesting season and fewer tourists; potential for variable weather.
Autumn
Sept-Oct · 5-12°C
Quieter and more dramatic weather; some boat services reduce frequency.

Weather & Climate near Papa Stronsay #

Climate
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
18°
Warmest Month
-1°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions

January

Weather

0.0
UV Index
Low
6.7h daylight

February

Weather

0.1
UV Index
Low
9.0h daylight

March

Weather

0.2
UV Index
Low
11.6h daylight

April

Weather

0.6
UV Index
Moderate
14.3h daylight

May

Weather

0.9
UV Index
Moderate
16.8h daylight

June

Weather

1.2
UV Index
High
18.2h daylight

July

Weather

1.1
UV Index
High
17.5h daylight

August

Weather

0.8
UV Index
Moderate
15.3h daylight

September

Weather

0.4
UV Index
Low
12.6h daylight

October

Weather

0.1
UV Index
Low
10.0h daylight

November

Weather

0.0
UV Index
Low
7.4h daylight

December

Weather

0.0
UV Index
Low
5.9h daylight

Nearby Attractions to Papa Stronsay