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Investigating Orkney’s Submerged Landscapes

A walk and talk at the Bay of Ireland, Stenness, with Dr Scott Timpany

Orkney has been described as a “tree-less island”, however, in the past there was thriving woodland across the islands. You may be surprised to know that Orkney’s prehistoric woodland (some 6000 years old) can still be visited today. It survives trapped in peat deposits in locations around the coastline of Orkney, occasionally revealed by the tide as it scours and peels back layers of this peat to expose remains of these remnant woodlands described as submerged forests. On this walk we will visit one of these locations – Bay of Ireland – view the deposits and discuss the lost world of Orkney.

Meet at Finstown carpark for 2pm. You will travel to site in the minibus, with the event due to finish at about 4pm. This is a free event but places are limited so you must book in advance via Eventbrite if you want to be taken to site. You can make your own way there and park at the Brig O’Waithe, but parking there is very limited.

Part of Orkney Archaeology Festival

Please note that this event is not being coordinated by Dig It!. While Dig It! takes every opportunity to ensure that this information is accurate, we advise that you contact the event organiser before attending the event to avoid disappointment. As “39% of transport emissions come from cars” according to Net Zero Nation, Dig It! also encourages you to walk, wheel, cycle or use public transport to arrive at this event if possible.

Accessibility Information

You will be visiting an intertidal location so they recommend people wear wellies or stout walking boots; waterproofs should also be brought along. The walk is along a saltmarsh area with lots of little creeks and gullies, so if you are unstable on your feet etc. then this event may not be for you. Young people U16 are welcome with an adult, and dogs are also welcome. The walk will be circa 2km.

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