The Churchill Barriers
There's nowhere else in the world where you can drive across the ocean with the North Sea on one side and Scapa Flow on the other.
And we are blessed to have visibility of them right outside our doorstep.
The Churchill Barriers are one of Orkney's most iconic routes, linking the Mainland to the southern isles of Lamb Holm, Glimps Holm, Burray, and South Ronaldsay.
While they are now a vital lifeline for locals and a scenic thrill for visitors, their origins are far more dramatic. This route is a journey through history, engineering, and the resilience of the human spirit.
A Response to Tragedy
The Barriers weren't built for tourism. They were born out of necessity during the Second World War.
In 1939, a German U-boat slipped into Scapa Flow and sank the HMS Royal Oak, resulting in a devastating loss of life.
To prevent this from ever happening again, Winston Churchill ordered the eastern approaches to the naval base to be sealed off.
As you drive across, look out into the water. You can still see the rusting hulls of the "Blockships" - vessels deliberately sunk to deter submarines before the concrete causeways were finished.
They serve as a sombre, striking reminder of the past. And for many visitors to the islands, it's something on their must see list.
Built by Hand: The Italian Connection
Constructing these massive causeways required an immense workforce. A large part of this labour came from Italian Prisoners of War held at Camp 60 on Lamb Holm.
These men didn't just leave us the road we drive on today; they left a symbol of peace. Using scrap metal and concrete, they transformed a Nissen hut into the Italian Chapel, one of Orkney’s most beloved sites. It is a must-visit stop on your journey across the first barrier.
Nature Reclaiming the Concrete
While the barriers started as stark concrete blocks, nature has softened them over the decades. The construction altered the tidal currents, allowing vast deposits of sand to build up along the causeways.
Today, these areas have transformed into some of Orkney's finest spots for a walk.
The 3rd Barrier Beach is particularly popular for its golden sands and turquoise waters. It is a surreal experience to walk on a beach that didn't exist a century ago.
If you're looking to see all the diverse nature that exists with the barriers, Kraken Diving runs snorkelling and scuba diving experiences off the 3rd Barrier too.
The Best Seat in the House
After exploring the chapel and walking the wind-swept beaches, you’ll likely be ready for a warm up.
Our showroom and the Barrier View Cafe are located at the Commodore in Holm, right at the start (or end, depending on your direction!) of the barriers. It is the perfect place to sit back with a coffee, enjoy a traybake, and gaze out over the very causeways you just explored.
The Churchill Barriers are more than just a road; they are a timeline of Orkney’s 20th-century history. From wartime defences to beautiful beaches, they offer a unique day out that balances poignant reflection with natural beauty.