Wheems Organic Farm And Campsite

Wheems Organic Farm and Campsite occupies an elevated field on South Ronaldsay, with grass tent pitches arranged along the seaward side so that vehicles do not interrupt the outlook. A beach is around five minutes away on foot, giving the site a close connection to this stretch of Orkney’s coast. Campervans are welcome, with hardstanding pitches and electric hook-up available, while yurts and glamping pods offer alternatives to bringing a tent.

The facilities include communal toilets, showers and a washing-up area, alongside a small dining space. An honesty shop sells organic foods and seasonal farm produce, making the farm part of the practical experience of staying here rather than simply the setting. Dogs are welcome, and campfires are permitted on raised surfaces. The combination of open-field camping, shared facilities and produce grown on the farm gives Wheems a straightforward, rural character.

For exploring beyond the campsite, South Ronaldsay is linked to Orkney Mainland by the Churchill Barriers, crossing Burray, Glimps Holm and Lamb Holm. The Italian Chapel on Lamb Holm, created from two Nissen huts by Italian prisoners of war, makes a distinctive stop along that route. On South Ronaldsay itself, St Margaret’s Hope has shops and local crafts, while walkers can head to Burwick pier for the coastal route towards Barth Head. This follows grassy clifftop paths overlooking the Pentland Firth; sections run close to the edge, so it is a walk for suitable weather rather than windy or wet conditions.