Cottage in Orkney Westray, Orkney Islands

Holiday Rental Description

Westray, although small in size, is a vibrant and fascinating island in Orkney that is entwined in Norse history. Known as the Queen o the Isles , it is easily accessible by a regular ferry service from mainland Orkney. Noup Head Cliffs (6 miles) are a must visit for keen birdwatchers, where numerous nesting seabirds including peregrine falcons, ravens, gannets and puffins are often seen between April and July. The island is home to plentiful shops, galleries, jewellery makers, knitters and straw backed chair makers. You ll also find glorious beaches and in Pierowall (2.5 miles) you will find the Heritage Centre that holds many artefacts and details of ongoing archaeological projects. Noltland Castle (3 miles) is also worth seeing, which was built by the master of Mary Queen of Scots household. The island also makes a great base to visit the adjacent island of Papa Westray via the passenger ferry in nearby Pierowall. The self contained wing to the 18th century House of Brough has its own entrance door that leads into an open plan kitchen/diner, with a cosy lounge to your left which can be closed off by sliding screens. The sitting room contains a wood burner, TV/DVD, as well as a piano. The kitchen/diner is well equipped with an electric fan oven, induction hob, fridge with ice compartment and dishwasher. Featuring flagstone flooring and exposed stone walls (which feature throughout the property), the dining area contains a dining table that comfortably seats five people, and from here you can access the first floor via a spiral staircase. Upstairs, you will find an area that has been dubbed The Gin and Tonic Terrace , where you can relax on the sofa with your favourite tipple in hand and enjoy the views out of the roof windows over Pierowall and Papay Sound. On a clear night, you may even be lucky enough to see the Northern Lights during the autumn and winter months. The only bedroom in the property consists of a super king size bed, which has a screen wall to separate it from the Gin and Tonic Terrace and study area, meaning that plenty of light can fill the top floor. There is also an ample sized shower room with WC on this level. Outside, there is an enclosed garden with a pond and is mainly laid to lawn, as well as a walled garden for guests to enjoy. Parking for two cars is available on the driveway to the rear of the property. Please note that the wing is attached to the owner s main home, and the property is located on a working farm with hens roaming freely.