This short walk around the golf course takes you past some of the historic sites particularly related to the military history of Stromness, but also has some of the best views in Orkney.
Starting from Garrison Hall go down the bottom of the road and turn right. Follow the street all the way towards the campsite, you take a look at the blue plaques and Login’s Well on the way.
You can either carry on through the campsite and turn right at the shore along the footpath or take the other road through the golf course. Don’t miss the remains of the Royal Garrison Artillery Volunteer’s battery situated along the shore between these two roads.
Continue along the shore passing the original life boat shed, gun emplacements and Ness Battery which is well worth a visit. You will eventual come to a small road on the right take you away from the shore.
Follow this road until it starts to incline and you will see a footpath on the right between a stone wall (dyke) and a field. Take this all the way to the end and up onto the Gun Viewpoint. There are fantastic views to enjoy and another information sign to read. One of the cannons used by the garrison was placed here until it was scrapped for the war effort.
When you are ready continue along the path towards the houses. Go through the small estate and onto the main road. Turn left on the main road and follow it up the hill until you get to the top of Hellihole Road on the right.
Follow the road down the hill and back to Garrison Hall. Again there are some lovely views across the bay as you walk down and you will pass the two red leading lights, which are used to guide ships into the harbour safely. It is thought that the name of the road means ‘holy well’ as it leads to a spring at the top of the hill.
The map below should help you find your way. Don’t forget your camera!