Wideford Hill

Overlooking Kirkwall, this heathery Marilyn provides a straightforward ascent with a significant historical reward. Its gentle slopes lead to a summit crowned by communication masts, but the real draw is the Neolithic chambered cairn on the western flank, offering a tangible link to Orkney’s ancient past and panoramas across the archipelago.

• •The name is of Old Norse origin, likely meaning 'Wide Fjord' or 'Willow Fjord', describing the hill's position above the broad waters of the Bay of Firth.
• •On the western slopes sits a Neolithic chambered cairn dating back to roughly 2000 BC; its interior is accessed by a modern hatch and ladder, revealing three distinct side-chambers similar to Maeshowe.
• •The 225-metre summit offers an expansive view of the North Isles, including Shapinsay, Rousay, and Egilsay, as well as the historic naval anchorage of Scapa Flow to the south.
• •As the primary site for Orkney's radio and television transmitters, the hill serves as the central hub for the archipelago's modern communications.
• •It is perhaps the only place in the world where you can explore a 4,000-year-old burial chamber while enjoying remarkably consistent 4G mobile reception.