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Welcome to Egilsay

 

Egilsay is part of the three island group Rousay, Egilsay and Wyre. These islands form part of the group also known as The Inner North Isles.

All three islands are serviced by Orkney ferries' 'Eynhallow' and many people commute daily to the mainland to work.

The economy of Egilsay is based solely on farming with sheep and cattle the mainstays of agricultural activity.

Approx one third of Egilsay is owned by the RSPB who work in partnership with land owners and farmers to manage the natural habitat for wildlife most famously to encourage breeding of the elusive Corncrake.

Egilsay is a low lying island with its highest point just over 35m above sea level.  Even at this low level there are great views of the outlying islands, Westray to the North, Eday, the green holms and Stronsay to the East, and Wyre, Shapinsay and Kirkwall to the South not forgetting its hilly neighbour Rousay to the West.

The population of Egilsay is just nudging 30 - baby 'Amber' arrived just before Christmas and we recently welcomed  new owners to Kirbist.

Egilsay has an active Community Association whose Chair David Basford is also a Director on  the Rousay Egilsay and Wyre Development Trust (REWDT). Chris Cox of Warsett has recently been appointed as a part-time Community Development Officer working for the trust and recently proposed initiatives currently under discussion are improved recycling facilities and a  community owned wind turbine for Egilsay.
 
The Association arranges a series of annual events including Egilsay’s Annual Summer Dance that is well attended by locals and visitors alike.
The community Association currently use the Community School Hall and Classroom (the only public building apart from the waiting room at the pier) for community activities. 
 
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