Birsay, Scotland, United Kingdom: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Birsay, Scotland, United Kingdom? If you're planning to go to Birsay, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Birsay, Scotland, United Kingdom

Based on the climate and weather in Birsay, Scotland, United Kingdom, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Birsay, Scotland, United Kingdom

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Birsay, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Birsay, Scotland, United Kingdom by month

January

In January, Birsay can be brisk, somewhat snowy and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Birsay, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 90%. There is frost a bit less than half of the time. Additionally, it is windy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Birsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you find the correct kind. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit the Kirbuster Farm Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

In February, Birsay is cold, somewhat snowy and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Birsay, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 90%. There is frost about a third of the time. Additionally, it is breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Birsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit the Kirbuster Farm Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you go to Birsay in March, you will notice that it is cold, somewhat snowy, very rainy and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain about half of the time and snow about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C). There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Birsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to find the right type. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Kirbuster Farm Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you vacation in Birsay during April, you will probably find that it is cold, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time and snow sometimes. There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Birsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you choose the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

If you visit the Kirbuster Farm Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

In May, Birsay is pretty cool, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Birsay, with several of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Birsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit the Kirbuster Farm Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

Traveling to Birsay in June, you will notice that it can be chilly, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Birsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you visit the Kirbuster Farm Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

In July, Birsay can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Birsay, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Birsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to get the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the Kirbuster Farm Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you are traveling to Birsay in August, you will notice that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Birsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit the Kirbuster Farm Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you go to Birsay in September, you will notice that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Birsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you choose the right type. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the Kirbuster Farm Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

In October, Birsay is brisk and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Birsay, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 90%. Additionally, it is breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Birsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to pick the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

If you visit the Kirbuster Farm Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November here is brisk and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost occasionally. It rains about two thirds of the time and snows occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Birsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

If you visit the Kirbuster Farm Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

In December, Birsay is pretty cool and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Birsay, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 90%. There is frost 5-10 days this month. Additionally, it is breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Birsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit the Kirbuster Farm Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Birsay, Scotland, United Kingdom

Birsay is a small village located in the Orkney Islands of Scotland. Despite being relatively unknown to tourists, this charming little town offers endless opportunities for visitors to explore the rich history and culture of the area, making it a must-visit destination in Scotland. In this article, we will explore some of the top tourist attractions that Birsay has to offer.

Birsay Bay

Birsay Bay is arguably one of the most popular tourist attractions in the village. The bay provides visitors with spectacular views of the North Sea, the rugged landscape of the Orkney Islands, and the cliffs that rise up from the sea. The area is also home to many local species of wildlife, such as seabirds, seals, and whales, making it a fantastic place for nature lovers to explore.

The Brough of Birsay

The Brough of Birsay is a small tidal Island situated near the bay. It is believed that the Island was home to Viking settlers who inhabited the area over a thousand years ago. The island is connected to the mainland by a causeway, which is only accessible at low tide. On the island, visitors can explore the ruins of an ancient church and other historic buildings, providing a glimpse into the Viking era.

Barony Mill

The Barony Mill is a traditional water-powered mill that has been in operation for over 200 years. The mill is one of the oldest in Scotland and still produces flour using the same methods as when it was first constructed in the 18th century. Visitors can take a tour of the mill and learn about the history of milling in Scotland, as well as purchase some of the flour and other mill products.

Birsay Heritage Centre

The Birsay Heritage Centre is a fascinating museum that showcases the archaeological history of the region. The center features an impressive collection of artifacts from the Viking era, including weapons, clothing, and tools that were used by the early settlers. The center also features exhibits about the natural history of the area, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the region's rich past.

The Birsay Community Hall

The Birsay Community Hall is an excellent venue for visitors to experience the local culture and traditions of the region. The hall hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including traditional music and dance performances, as well as local festivals and celebrations. The atmosphere of the hall is warm and welcoming, making it an excellent location to meet and interact with locals.

In conclusion, Birsay is a hidden gem of Scotland that offers endless opportunities for visitors to explore the rich history and culture of the area. From the spectacular views of Birsay Bay to the fascinating archaeological artifacts at the Birsay Heritage Centre, this charming village has something to offer to every tourist. So, if you are planning a trip to Scotland, make sure to add Birsay to your itinerary and experience the unique charm and hospitality of this beautiful village.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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