Old Man of Hoy
A towering sandstone sea stack on Hoy Island, Orkney, offering a challenging hike and dramatic coastal vistas.
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Old Man of Hoy
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Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A towering sandstone sea stack on Hoy Island, Orkney, offering a challenging hike and dramatic coastal vistas.
"The hike to the Old Man of Hoy is a must-do for its absolutely breathtaking views."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path is rubbly and steep in places. Walking boots are highly recommended for grip and comfort.
🚗 Ferry Booking Essential
Book your ferry to Hoy in advance, especially the Houton to Lyness route, as it fills up quickly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Old Man of Hoy Sea Stack
Hoy Island, Orkney
A towering 137-meter sandstone monolith, sculpted by the sea into an iconic, imposing natural wonder.
Rackwick Bay
Hoy Island, Orkney
The starting point for the hike, offering stunning coastal views and a sense of wild, remote beauty.
Dramatic Coastal Cliffs
Near Old Man of Hoy
Experience some of the UK's steepest vertical cliffs, teeming with seabirds and offering panoramic ocean vistas.
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Planning Your Visit
The Hike to the Old Man
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path is rubbly and steep in places. Walking boots are highly recommended for grip and comfort.
🚗 Ferry Booking Essential
Book your ferry to Hoy in advance, especially the Houton to Lyness route, as it fills up quickly.
🌬️ Wind & Weather Preparedness
Orkney weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for strong winds and bring layers, even on a sunny day.
📸 Hike for the Best Views
Seeing the Old Man from the ferry is good, but the hike offers truly breathtaking, up-close perspectives.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path is rubbly and steep in places. Walking boots are highly recommended for grip and comfort.
🚗 Ferry Booking Essential
Book your ferry to Hoy in advance, especially the Houton to Lyness route, as it fills up quickly.
🌬️ Wind & Weather Preparedness
Orkney weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for strong winds and bring layers, even on a sunny day.
📸 Hike for the Best Views
Seeing the Old Man from the ferry is good, but the hike offers truly breathtaking, up-close perspectives.
📍 Rackwick Bay Parking
Easy parking is available at Rackwick Bay, with clear signposts guiding you to the start of the hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Man of Hoy as a stunning and iconic landmark, with the hike from Rackwick Bay offering breathtaking views. While the initial climb is steep, the reward is immense. Some find the weather unpredictable, and the lack of facilities is noted, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"Stunning place to visit if you’re up for a hike. Easy parking available at Rackwick Bay with clear signposts to the path up the track. The first part is definitely the most difficult, very steep and uneven in places. The track levels out afterwards with a few steps inclines afterwards. Took about 1.5 hours to walk to the stack and you’re rewarded with an incredible view of the Old Man of Hoy and the steepest vertical cliffs in the UK just a little further down the coast. Found walking back easier and quicker taking around an hour."
Ryan Bayliss
"An iconic sight as we sailed past it twice , got lucky with the return journey as the sun shone on the Old Man and we got some great shots of the sandstone stack that is symbolic of Orkney"
Tork Mackenzie
"Oh. My. God. If you're on Hoy and you can, make sure to do the hike to this place as the views are absolutely breath taking.
There are 2 ways to do this, one from Linksness which takes a long time and is on pretty rough terrain and another from Rackwick, which we did. You can find the trail details on AllTrails, but it's really simple and fairly well marked otherwise. You park your car if you drove there in the dedicated parking lot (easily over 20 parking spots) and then start a fairly light walk following the path and other hikers. The return trip took us about 2h45m and we stayed for about 1h at the top. Once you get there, there are 2 viewing points - the views from the one on the right are just as good as the main one, but there's also a makeshift bench there.
We saw it from the ferry and thought it looks alright, but it's so much nicer from the top of the hike, so I strongly recommend hiking to it if you can, especially if it's a clear day."
Vlad Schnakovszki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take a ferry to Orkney, then drive to Hoy. From Houton on mainland Orkney, take the ferry to Lyness on Hoy (book in advance!). On Hoy, drive towards Rackwick Bay, where parking is available for the hike.
Hoy has limited roads, but they are generally well-maintained. The drive from Lyness to Rackwick Bay takes about 25 minutes and is straightforward.
While possible, it's significantly more challenging. Public transport on Hoy is very limited. Having a car or joining a guided tour is highly recommended for ease of access.
Ferries to Orkney depart from Scrabster on the Scottish mainland and from Gills Bay. The journey offers scenic views of the Pentland Firth.
Yes, several tour operators offer guided trips to Orkney and Hoy, often including the hike to the Old Man. This can be a good option if you prefer not to drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees to visit the Old Man of Hoy or hike to it. The attraction is free to access.
The Old Man of Hoy is an outdoor natural landmark, so it's accessible at any time. However, hiking is best done during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There isn't a formal visitor center directly at the Old Man of Hoy. Information and facilities are minimal, emphasizing the wild nature of the location.
It's advisable to book ferry tickets to Orkney and Hoy well in advance, especially during peak tourist season (summer) or holidays, as they can sell out.
The area is largely natural and unfenced. Be mindful of the terrain, weather, and wildlife. Respect any signage regarding private farmland or conservation areas.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The walk from Rackwick Bay car park to the Old Man of Hoy typically takes about 60-90 minutes each way, depending on your pace. The return journey can be quicker.
The initial part of the hike from Rackwick Bay is quite steep and can be rubbly. The terrain levels out somewhat afterwards, with some inclines and declines. Sturdy footwear is crucial.
Wear sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes. Dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable and windy. Waterproofs are also a good idea.
There are no restrooms or facilities at the viewpoint itself. The car park at Rackwick Bay is basic. Plan accordingly.
The Old Man of Hoy is a famous rock climbing destination, first ascended in 1966. However, climbing is for experienced professionals and not for casual visitors. 
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the texture of the sandstone. Clear days offer the best visibility for wide shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the sea stack and cliffs. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the sea.
Yes, there are multiple viewpoints along the trail. The main viewpoint offers a classic perspective, but exploring slightly further can yield unique angles.
Include a person in your shot to give a sense of scale, or use foreground elements like rocks or the coastline to add depth.
The cliffs are home to many seabirds. Bring binoculars and a zoom lens if you're interested in photographing Fulmars, Bonxies, and other nesting birds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the age and stamina of your children before embarking on the full hike. For younger families, enjoying the views from Rackwick Bay itself might be a more suitable option. If you do attempt the hike, take frequent breaks and make it a fun exploration rather than a race. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the Old Man can be very rewarding for kids.
🚶 Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Experienced hikers might also explore other trails on Hoy, but the route to the Old Man is the most iconic. The combination of geological interest, natural beauty, and the historical significance of the first climb makes this a bucket-list destination for many outdoor adventurers. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking vistas.
📸 Photographers
Consider the weather; dramatic skies and moody clouds can add significant impact to your shots. The presence of seabirds offers opportunities for wildlife photography, so a telephoto lens can be beneficial. Remember to pack extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely be taking many photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geology and Formation of the Old Man of Hoy
This geological marvel is geologically quite young, estimated to have formed around 400 years ago. Its fragility is a constant concern, and it's a reminder of the dynamic nature of coastlines. The surrounding cliffs are also incredibly steep, showcasing the dramatic geological processes at play in this region. The contrast between the vibrant red sandstone and the deep blue sea creates a visually striking landscape.
For those interested in geology, the Old Man of Hoy offers a tangible example of coastal geomorphology. The ongoing erosion means that the stack's appearance can subtly change over time, making each visit a unique experience. It's a popular subject for geologists and nature enthusiasts alike, drawn to its raw beauty and the story of its formation.
The Iconic Climb of the Old Man of Hoy
Climbing the Old Man of Hoy is not for the faint of heart or the inexperienced. It involves navigating steep, often crumbly sandstone and dealing with the unpredictable coastal weather. Climbers often describe the experience as both terrifying and exhilarating, with the reward of reaching the summit and the incredible views that accompany it. The logistics of climbing here, especially with gear and the remote location, add to the challenge.
+1While the Old Man of Hoy remains a coveted challenge for professional climbers, it's crucial to remember that it is not a route for casual visitors. The risks are substantial, and attempting such a climb without proper training and equipment would be extremely dangerous. For most visitors, the thrill comes from admiring this natural wonder from the ground and the challenging hike to its base.
Wildlife and Coastal Environment
The marine environment is equally rich. The waters around Hoy are home to seals, and with luck, you might even spot dolphins or porpoises offshore. The rugged coastline itself, with its sea caves and tidal pools, offers a glimpse into a vibrant ecosystem shaped by the powerful forces of the North Atlantic. The RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) manages parts of the area, working to conserve this precious habitat.
When visiting, it's important to be a responsible visitor. Keep a safe distance from wildlife, especially nesting birds, and avoid disturbing their habitats. The natural beauty of this area is a significant part of its appeal, and preserving it for future generations is paramount.
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