Attractions and Places To See around Glims Holm - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Glims Holm are centered around the historic Scapa Flow, a significant natural harbor in the Orkney Islands. This area features diverse coastal landscapes, sandy beaches, and numerous sites reflecting its World War history. Visitors can explore a combination of natural trails and historical landmarks, providing insights into both the environment and past events. The region offers opportunities for various outdoor activities, including easy walks Glims Holm and exploring wartime remnants.
Best attractions and…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Scapa Beach and Royal Oak Memorial Garden
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The Crantit Trail
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Balfour Coast Battery
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Shipwreck in Weddell Sound
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Sands of Wright Beach
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Every August the annual Boy's Ploughing Match is held here, where the …
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A beautiful place with a goosebumps story
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In the often storm-tossed seas of the Atlantic lies the Scapa Flow off the Orkney Islands, which belong to Scotland. A very special stretch of water measuring more than 300 square kilometers, a kind of natural harbor off the two main islands of the Orkneys. But what makes it so unique is underwater. A ship graveyard that is probably one of the most spectacular diving spots in Europe, if not the world. The story of its creation tells of a forgotten chapter of the First World War. According to the town's official website, the name Scapa Flow comes from the Norse word Skalpaflói, which means “The Bay of the Long Isthmus”. Accordingly, the place was first used by the British Admiralty around 1800 as a strategic natural harbor in the Napoleonic Wars. At a depth of up to 40 meters, merchant ships were allowed to anchor here before they set off for the Baltic North Sea ports. But Scapa Flow would not finally take its place in the history books until 1919. During the First World War, the British fleet moved its base to the difficult-to-access Scapa Flow. Old defenses on land were also put back into operation at this time. After Germany had to admit its defeat in the war in 1918, the ships of the German Navy with their crew on board were held there as prisoners of war. And so on June 21, 1919, one of the greatest ship accidents in world history occurred. The word “misfortune” is misleading, because it was actually an ordered tragedy. The commander of the German navy in the Scapa Flow, Admiral Ludwig von Reuter, believed at this point that the peace negotiations with the victorious powers had failed. In order to prevent “his” ships from finally falling into the hands of the enemy, he had them sunk without further ado on his orders. That day, 52 German warships found their watery grave in the waters of Scapa Flow. To date, this is the largest sinking ever recorded.
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On this moorland trail we saw pheasants grouse and sheep
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In season, this crescent beach area is full of wildflowers. Facilities include a parking area and toilet block. Every August the annual Boy's Ploughing Match is held here, where the locals take handmade miniature wooden ploughs to the sand to test their skills.
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In WW2 Balfour Battery was paired with Buchanan Battery on Flotta, to guard the boom defence across the sound to discourage attacks against vessels at anchor in Scapa Flow. A deterrent so effective they never had to be fired in anger.
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Scapa Beach at the end of Scapa Bay is a wide sandy beach with views out to Scapa Flow. There is likely to be plenty of sea traffic to watch from oil tankers and fishing boats to windsurfers and dive boats. Take some time to visit the memorial garden at the end of the beach where there is information about the harbours use in the World Wars.
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Beautiful hiking trail that leads to Scapa Bay. There are plenty of flowers along the way and impressive pictures of the Kirkwall area.
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Beautiful hike around Hoxa Head on the trail of Scapa Flow
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Glims Holm?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Sands of Wright Beach is a crescent beach area with facilities, known for wildflowers and an annual ploughing match. The Crantit Trail is also family-friendly, offering moorland paths with diverse flora and wildlife.
What historical sites related to the World Wars can I visit near Glims Holm?
The region is rich in World War history, particularly around Scapa Flow. You can visit Scapa Beach and Royal Oak Memorial Garden, which provides information about the harbor's use in both World Wars. Another significant site is Balfour Coast Battery, a WWII defense post that guarded Scapa Flow. For a unique historical experience, explore the area around the Shipwreck in Weddell Sound, which tells the story of the scuttling of the German fleet in 1919.
Which beaches are best for visitors around Glims Holm?
For a wide sandy beach with views of Scapa Flow and historical context, visit Scapa Beach. If you're looking for a family-friendly option with facilities and seasonal wildflowers, Sands of Wright Beach is an excellent choice.
Where can I find easy walks around Glims Holm?
There are several easy walking options. The Crantit Trail is a moorland path known for its flora and wildlife, leading towards Scapa Bay. For more options, you can explore the Easy hikes around Glims Holm guide, which includes routes like the Roseness and the Bay of Cornquoy.
What outdoor activities, beyond walking, are available near Glims Holm?
Beyond walking, the area offers excellent cycling opportunities. You can find various routes in the Cycling around Glims Holm guide, including sections of the EuroVelo 12 - North Sea Cycle Route and routes around Hoxa Head.
Can I spot wildlife around Glims Holm?
Yes, the natural landscapes around Glims Holm offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. On The Crantit Trail, visitors have reported seeing pheasants, grouse, and sheep. The coastal areas also attract various seabirds.
Are there any circular walks available near Glims Holm?
Yes, there are several circular walks. For example, the Easy hikes around Glims Holm guide features routes like the Balfour Coast Battery loop from Hoxa and the View of Hoxa Sound – Sands of Wright Beach loop.
What is the best time of year to visit Glims Holm for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Glims Holm for outdoor activities is generally during the spring and summer months (May to September) when the weather is milder, and daylight hours are longer. This period is ideal for enjoying beaches, trails, and wildflowers.
Is parking available at the main attractions around Glims Holm?
Parking facilities are available at some key attractions. For instance, Sands of Wright Beach has a dedicated parking area. For other sites, roadside parking or small car parks may be available, but it's advisable to check local signage.
Are the walks and attractions around Glims Holm dog-friendly?
Many outdoor areas and walks around Glims Holm are dog-friendly, especially trails and beaches. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds, and to check specific signage at historical sites or nature reserves for any restrictions.
Are there good options for winter walks around Glims Holm?
While the weather can be more challenging, Glims Holm offers opportunities for winter walks, especially on coastal paths and trails like The Crantit Trail. Be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions. The Easy hikes around Glims Holm guide can provide suitable routes.
Are there any wheelchair accessible attractions or paths?
While specific wheelchair-accessible paths are not extensively highlighted, some of the wider, flatter beach areas like Sands of Wright Beach may offer easier access. It's best to check individual site conditions or contact local visitor information for detailed accessibility information.
How can I reach attractions around Glims Holm using public transport?
Public transport on the Orkney Islands, including around Glims Holm, primarily consists of local bus services. Routes connect major towns and some attractions. It's advisable to consult the Orkney Islands Council's public transport schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and timings to plan your visit.
Most popular routes around Glims Holm
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