As avid Jurassic Park enjoyers, when we heard that there was Dinosaur Footprints on the Isle of Skye, not only was our son Jak crazy excited but we were too... On route to the locations we visited we were absolutely blasting the Jurrasic Park Theme song - we like to call this Education for the Children!! Haha 

So naturally, my first question was "Is there REALLY Dinosaur Footprints on the Isle of Skye?"

Yep, there are totally real dinosaur footprints on the Isle of Skye in Scotland! It’s pretty cool—people call it "Dinosaur Isle" because of all the awesome tracks left behind from way back in the Middle Jurassic, like 166 to 170 million years ago.

They started finding these prints big-time in the '80s, and they’ve kept popping up since. For instance, over at An Corran Beach near Staffin, you can check out three-toed marks from ornithopods—those two-legged, veggie-eating dinos. Then there’s Score Bay near Duntulm, where giant sauropods (think long-necked Brontosaurus vibes) left the biggest trackway in Scotland. More recently, in 2018, they found about 50 footprints at Brothers’ Point from both sauropods and theropods (the meat-eating cousins of T. rex). And in 2020, they even spotted stegosaurus tracks there too—talk about a dino party!

These prints got stuck in the coastal rocks back when Skye was all warm and swampy with lagoons, not the wild, windy place it is now. You can sometimes see them when the tide’s out, though they might be hiding under seaweed or sand. Dino experts love Skye because it’s got rare stuff from the Middle Jurassic—about 15% of the world’s finds from that time are right here.

So yeah, the footprints are legit, and they’re a super neat peek into Scotland’s prehistoric past—perfect for anyone who’s into dinosaurs or just loves a good adventure!

So Where are They!? 

When we were on our adventure to find the Dinosaur footprints, we found it really difficult to actually find the right places. Luckily we had some time to spare so we had lots of time to do some research, but if you were on a schedule I could see this being quite frustrating, so for those of you who are struggling to find the Dinosaur Footprints on the Isle of Skye, we have put together an interactive map with as much information as we could for you. 

If you’re looking for a unique family outing that combines stunning scenery, a splash of adventure, and a chance to connect with nature, wild swimming in Orkney, Scotland, might just be the perfect choice.

After a phonecall from Dan's Mum during our trip in Orkney, she mentioned she just watched a show where they were Wild Swimming in Orkney and that we should give it a go - its supposed to be really good for your body, how true that is I don't know but I do know that it wakes you up!!

This archipelago, perched off the northeastern coast of Scotland, is a hidden gem with its rugged coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful vibe that feels like a step back in time. Whether you’re dipping your toes in for the first time or you’re seasoned swimmers, Orkney offers a magical backdrop for a family-friendly wild swimming experience. Here’s a little guide to get you started, along with some handy safety tips to keep everyone smiling!

Why Wild Swimming in Orkney?

Orkney is a paradise for nature lovers. With over 70 islands (about 20 of them inhabited), you’ll find plenty of spots to take a refreshing dip.

 The waters here are often chilly but incredibly clean, thanks to the strong tides and unspoiled environment. Imagine swimming (or just dipping) with views of ancient sea stacks, sandy beaches, or even the occasional seal popping up to say hello! Places like the Bay of Skaill, near the famous Skara Brae, or the sheltered waters of Scapa Flow offer calm, inviting spots for families to enjoy. Plus, the sense of freedom and the stories you’ll tell afterward make it an unforgettable adventure.

A Few Family-Friendly Swimming Spots:

• Bay of Skaill: This sandy beach is gentle and shallow near the shore, making it great for kids to paddle while parents keep an eye out. It’s also near a historic village, so you can pair your swim with a little exploring.
• Yesnaby Cliffs: For families with older kids who love a bit of drama, the wild waves and rock pools here are exciting—just stick to the calmer pools rather than the open sea.
• Scapa Flow: Known for its sheltered waters, this huge natural harbor is a peaceful spot for a swim, with plenty of space for everyone to splash around.

We have put together a map of the locations we personally visited on our trip to Orkney. These locations are only on the mainland of Orkney but there are many more wonderful locations for your to swim if you venture off the mainland.

Here are a few Tips to Stay Safe While Wild Swimming

Wild swimming is heaps of fun, but it’s always smart to keep safety first—especially with little ones in tow. Here are some tips to make sure your family’s Orkney adventure is all giggles and no worries:

1. Check the Weather and Tides: Orkney’s weather can change faster than a toddler’s mood! Look up tide times and weather forecasts before you head out. Calm, sunny days are best for beginners, and knowing when the tide’s coming in keeps you out of tricky spots. A great site for tides is: https://www.tideschart.com/United-Kingdom/Scotland/Orkney-Islands/Orkney
2. Start Small: Pick a spot with shallow, calm waters for your first family swim. Let everyone get comfy with the temperature (it’s brisk!) and the feel of the sea before venturing deeper.
3. Dress for the Chill: The water in Orkney is refreshing—to say the least! Pack wetsuits, swim socks, or even rash vests for the kids to keep warm. Towels, cozy blankets, and a flask of hot chocolate for after are must-haves, too. Personally we didn't have all this kit and just braved it with our normal swimming costume, those swimming shoes and a towel for when we got out! 
4. Watch Your Step: Some beaches have slippery rocks or seaweed. Take it slow, wear water shoes, and hold hands with younger swimmers to avoid any tumbles.
5. Swim Together: Stick close as a family and keep an eye on each other. It’s more fun that way, and you’ll all feel safer knowing someone’s nearby.
6. Know Your Limits: The sea can be unpredictable, so don’t push too far out. If the waves pick up or the wind gets strong, it’s okay to call it a day and build a sandcastle instead!

The Amazing Benefits of Wild SwimmingBeyond the fun and beauty, wild swimming comes with some fantastic perks for the whole family! It’s like a little gift from nature that keeps on giving. Here’s why it’s worth a try:

• Boosts Happiness: Splashing in cold water releases feel-good vibes (those fancy endorphins!), leaving everyone grinning from ear to ear.
• Builds Resilience: That chilly dip helps kids and adults alike feel brave and strong—perfect for family bonding and a confidence boost.
• Connects You to Nature: Swimming in the wild lets you feel part of something bigger, from the salty waves to the curious wildlife. It’s a screen-free way to recharge.
• Keeps You Fit: Paddling around is a gentle, full-body workout that’s easy on the joints and great for all ages.
• Soothes the Mind: The calm of the water and the sound of the sea can melt away stress, making it a lovely reset for busy families.

Making Memories in Orkney

Wild swimming in Orkney isn’t just about the swim—it’s about the whole experience. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, look out for puffins or otters, and let the kids marvel at the wide-open spaces. The islands have a special kind of magic, with history around every corner and nature that feels alive. After your swim, you might even stumble across a Viking ruin or a friendly local with a tale to tell.So, grab your swimsuits, gather the gang, and dive into a wild swimming day in Orkney. It’s a chance to unplug, splash around, and make memories that’ll have the whole family talking for years. Stay safe, have fun, and enjoy the chilly thrill of Scotland’s northern waters!

We stayed at Apps Court for a week while preparing for our upcoming trip to Seattle for the Throne Liberty gaming event. The location was perfect—close to the airport and lots of things to do nearby, making it a great choice for our family.

Our Experience

Since we booked during winter, the site was pretty quiet, and we pretty much had the place to ourselves. However, weekends are busy with events, which added a fun, lively vibe. The night we arrived, we woke up to a cycling event happening right outside, and the weekend was filled with a boot sale—a unique and fun experience!

The facilities were okay, with clean toilets and showers, but nothing too fancy. The site is within walking distance of the town, which is a nice bonus, but it’s a bit of a walk if you’re looking to head into the heart of things.

One of the highlights for us was the indoor play area and the outdoor playground, which the kids absolutely loved. There’s also a swimming center nearby, so we spent a few afternoons there as well.

Things to Do Around Apps Court:

✅ Boot Sale on Weekends – A fun and unique activity for families.
✅ Indoor Play Area & Outdoor Playground – Perfect for the kids to burn off energy.
✅ Swimming Center Nearby – Great for family swims.
✅ Explore the Local Town – A fun walk to see the local sights.
✅ Nearby Parks & Nature – Good for walks and outdoor activities.

Our Ratings:

🛜 4G/Signal – 7
🚽 Toilets – 6
🚿 Showers – 6
🧼 Cleanliness – 8
💸 Value for Money – 8

Overall, Apps Court was a great base for our trip. It’s close to the airport and has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. Would definitely recommend it for families or anyone looking for a convenient spot near the airport with a bit of fun on the side!

We stayed at Horsley Camping and Caravanning Club Site for a couple of days, and it was absolutely perfect. From the moment we arrived, we could tell this site was well looked after.

Our Experience

The facilities were spotless—honestly, they couldn’t be any better! The toilets and showers were super clean and well-maintained, making our stay really comfortable. The pitches were spacious, and the whole site had a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.

The site is beautifully surrounded by nature, with a fishing lake nearby, making it a great spot for a quiet escape. There are walking trails in the area, and it’s not far from Guildford and other places to explore.

Things to Do Near Horsley Camping and Caravanning Club Site:

✅ Fishing Lake – A lovely spot to relax.
✅ Scenic Walks – Plenty of countryside to explore.
✅ Visit Guildford – Just a short drive away for shopping and sightseeing.
✅ Explore the Surrey Hills – Perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
✅ National Trust Sites – Several nearby, great for history buffs.

Our Ratings:

🛜 4G/Signal – 8
🚽 Toilets – 10
🚿 Showers – 10
🧼 Cleanliness – 10
💸 Value for Money – 9

Overall, Horsley Camping and Caravanning Club Site was a fantastic stay. If you’re looking for a peaceful, well-kept campsite with top-notch facilities, this is the perfect place. We’ll definitely be back! 😊

We stayed at Fontygary Leisure Park for a week with our campervan, and it turned out to be a fantastic spot for a family getaway. The location is great—right by the beach, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.

Our Experience

The campsite itself had a mix of facilities—some were great, while others were just okay. The toilets and showers were decent, but they could use a little updating. That said, the overall atmosphere was fantastic, and we loved how much there was to do without ever needing to leave the park.

The play area was a big hit with the kids—it’s super affordable, and to be honest, we could’ve easily spent the entire day there! There’s also an indoor soft play area, a bowling alley, and an arcade, which gave us plenty of options for both sunny and rainy days.

The beach is just a short walk away, and we spent a lot of time exploring the coast and enjoying the sea views. There’s a bar and restaurant on-site, which was handy when we didn’t feel like cooking, and a small shop for essentials.

Things to Do at Fontygary Leisure Park:
✅ Play Area & Soft Play – Perfect for the kids, and great value for money!
✅ Bowling & Arcade – Fun for the whole family.
✅ Indoor Swimming Pool – A nice option for a relaxing swim.
✅ Beach Walks – The coastal views are stunning.
✅ On-Site Restaurant & Bar – Handy for meals and drinks.
✅ Nearby Barry Island – Just a short drive away for even more fun.

Our Ratings:

🛜 4G/Signal – 7
🚽 Toilets – 6
🚿 Showers – 6
🧼 Cleanliness – 7
💸 Value for Money – 9

Overall, we had a brilliant time at Fontygary Leisure Park. It’s a fantastic spot for families, with loads to keep the kids busy, and the beach right on your doorstep. If you’re looking for a fun, easygoing holiday with plenty of activities, this is a great choice!

Would we come back? Absolutely! 

We stayed at the National Showcaves Campsite for a few days in our campervan, parked right next to the river, and had an amazing experience. The campsite was a fantastic base for exploring the Dan yr Ogof National Showcaves and all the attractions nearby.  

The facilities were well-maintained, with clean toilets and showers, and the pitches were spacious, catering to both families and couples. We noticed they had designated parking areas for families and separate quieter spots for couples, which is a nice touch. The peaceful setting, surrounded by nature and the sound of the river, made for a relaxing stay.  

Our kids absolutely loved the dinosaur park, where they got to walk among life-sized dinosaur models, making it feel like stepping back in time. The Small farm with its petting area and playground was another highlight, giving them plenty of space to run around and interact with the animals. The indoor play areas were a great addition too, especially with their large windows offering views of the surrounding countryside and animals grazing nearby.  

One thing to keep in mind is that the phone signal was a bit hit-or-miss in some areas, but it wasn’t a big deal since we were too busy exploring and enjoying the surroundings.  

Things to Do Around the Campsite:  

✅ Explore the National Showcaves– Discover the impressive Dan yr Ogof, Cathedral Cave, and Bone Cave.
✅ Visit the Dinosaur Park – Walk among over 200 life-sized dinosaur models.  
✅ Enjoy the Farm & Play Areas – Meet farm animals and let the kids enjoy the playgrounds.  
✅ Go for a Scenic Walk – Plenty of nearby trails through the Brecon Beacons National Park.  
✅ Visit Craig-y-Nos Country Park – A beautiful spot for a picnic and short walks.  
✅ Try Horse Riding– The local stables offer rides through the stunning Welsh countryside.  
✅ Relax by the River – Perfect for unwinding after a long day of adventures.  
✅ Explore Swansea – Just a short drive away for shopping, dining, and beach visits.  

Our Ratings:  
🛜 4G/Signal – 3  
🚽 Toilets – 9  
🚿 Showers – 9  
🧼 Cleanliness – 10  
💸 Value for Money – 10  

Overall, we had a fantastic time at "National Showcaves Campsite" and would definitely recommend it to families and couples alike. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this site has plenty to offer! 

https://youtu.be/kgdDs7A6N8M?si=vgdKZf437hKTETpw

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Exploring the Orkney Islands is something we would recommend to anyone with even the slightest sense of adventure! The Islands are filled with rich history, beautiful landscapes, incredible wildlife, tasty local food and good people! 

You could easily spend a long time in Orkney, in fact nearly every local we met had moved to Orkney at some point over the last 20 years because they fell in love with it after a holiday! 

The locals on the island are called Orkadians and they don’t particularly see themself as Scottish as only recently they were seen as Skandinavian. 

Getting to Orkney 
There are multiple ways to get to the islands from different parts of mainland Scotland. The most common way to travel to Orkney is by Ferry. 

We took the Ferry from Thurso (Scrabster) to Stromness, return, and for 2 Adults, 2 Children (10 and 2 at the time) and our camper van which is around 6.5m cost us £350.

The island is relatively small so it wouldn’t hurt if you didn’t have a route planned as it takes roughly 1 hour to travel from one side to the other, and at every twist and turn there is something to see and do! However just in case it helps, we’ve put together a suggested route that you could use on your Orkney adventure! We had zero plan when we arrived in Orkney and picked up a leaflet on the Ferry journey over, this is what we used to put together our loose plan based on the weather. 

This is our Overland Gaming Worthwhile places to visit while on Orkney: 
1. Stromness Highstreet - 3 Hours
This is the second largest town on Orkney and boasts a rich history with a high street that will teleport you back in time. Its not advised to drive your van or motorhome down the high street as its really narrow. Locals have mentioned its a beautiful town but its turning into a ghost town, especially in the winter as its full of second homes and holiday homes. 

The harbour is the heart of the town, but elsewhere you’ll discover independent shops, studios, and galleries, as well as the world-renowned Pier Arts Centre. The best way to see Stromness is to simply take a stroll through the street as it runs from north to south, exploring all the nooks and crannies you can find.

2. Standing Stones - 1 Hour
Dating back over 5000 Years, the standing stones are a great place to visit with only a short walk from the car, so perfect for little legs. You are able to walk right up to the stones and touch them and there is a couple of great boards filled with the history for the site. 

The Stones of Stenness today consist of four upright stones up to 6m in height in a circle that originally held 12 stones. The focus of the interior was a large hearth. The stones were encircled by a large ditch and bank, the form of which has been lost over time by ploughing.

3. Ring of Brodgar - 1 Hour
It's quite like Orkneys own Stone Henge, if you've ever been there! A massive circle with a ditch around the outside with 36 standing stones all standing tall in a circle - it doesn't sound like much but when you are there its really fantastic. Originally there was 60 stones and there are at least 13 prehistoric burial grounds. Its got a great car park with a short walk to the site so great for all members of the family. 

4. Skara Brae - 3 Hours
I wasn't sure what to expect visiting this place, yet another uncovered ancient settlement? Well yeah, it is, but it is in extraordinary condition to the point it doesn't look real. They say its the best preserved group of prehistoric houses in all of Western Europe complete with some original furniture! This requires paid admission at around £12 per adult. You can find all the current prices here: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/skara-brae/prices-times/ 

Perfect location for the whole family and access to a beautiful beach just outside the settlement! 

First uncovered by a storm in 1850, Skara Brae remains a place of discovery today. Visit a replica Neolithic house to see how its full interior might have looked. Then follow the path that overlooks the ancient buildings, imagining what life was like for the farmers, hunters and fishermen who lived here. The prehistoric houses still contain stone ‘dressers’ and box-beds.

5. Brough of Birsay - 3 Hours
Perhaps one of my favourite locations on the trip. We were met with a beautiful calm evening with an insane sunset. We stayed the night as the tide was high ready for the low tide in the morning. We set off around 8am just as the tide was low enough to cross over. You can find local tide times on this website: https://www.tideschart.com/United-Kingdom/Scotland/Orkney-Islands/Orkney/ This settlement is the remains of Pictish, Norse and Medieval settlers. 

Reach this very special tidal island by causeway to explore Pictish, Norse and medieval remains. Brooches, rings and dress pins found on the Brough of Birsay suggest that it was a Pictish power centre. The Norse settled the island 200 years later, in the 9th century, but may have lived peacefully alongside the Picts. It’s still possible to make out the remnants of Norse houses, barns and even a sauna. Later, a small church and monastery were built on Birsay.

6. Broch of Gurness - 2 Hours
This location is quiet, beautiful and full of history! The Broch of Gurness is open between 1st April to 30th September. We visited in February and although the Visitor Centre was closed, you were still able to explore the Broch - it is important to respect the site even more when there are no staff present. You will find up to date prices here: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/broch-of-gurness/prices-times/ 

Explore an icon of Orkney’s rich archaeological heritage. This impressive Iron Age complex is one of the most outstanding examples of a later prehistoric settlement to survive in Scotland.

7. Kirkwall - 4 Hours
Orkneys main town where there is plenty of things to do from its ancient cathedral and Viking Heritage to modern day shopping and art! If you're arriving in a campervan or motorhome, we advise you to take a look at our Interactive Map for best places to park or campsites to stay at during your stay in Kirkwall. Although the roads are not as small as Stromness, we would still advise to park outside and walk in to the town. 

8. Churchill Barriers - 6 Hours
Quite possibly the place we spent the most time. The Churchill Barriers are rich in both modern and ancient history. There is vast beautiful beaches, plenty of park ups and plenty to do for the whole family. 

It was the sinking of HMS Royal Oak more than 80 years ago that set in motion plans to build these four concrete causeways. A German U-boat crawled into Scapa Flow in October 1939 and fired torpedoes at the slumbering battleship, resulting in the loss of 834 lives. Before the causeways were built block ships were used to prevent enemies from entering which you can still see many of today. 

9. Italian Chapel - 1 Hour
As an atheist family, the Italian Chapel was not high on our to do list, however this is just yet another place to visit which shows the rich history that Orkney has. 

A shortage of manpower to construct the Churchill barriers coincided with the capture of thousands of Italian soldiers fighting in North Africa, so a decision was taken to transport 550 men to Camp 60 on Lamb Holm and a similar number to Camp 34 in Burray. Following a request from the camp priest, Fr Giacobazzi, it was agreed that two Nissen huts would be joined together to provide a chapel. Among the Italians in Camp 60 was an artist, Domenico Chiocchetti, and he was given the task of transforming the two Nissen huts into a chapel. 

Wild Swimming in Orkney
Something I don't often do because quite frankly im a wimp, let alone in Orkney with exceptionally cold waters, haha! However, we did it! Our chosen beach was Hoxa and we did it when the sun was out :P 

Here is a list of Beaches that are suitable for Wild Swimming in Orkney: 
- The Pow (Ethan’s Pow) – on the north west coast, within the flagstones, this sheltered low tide pool is a wonderful place for a swim (and snorkel to enjoy the sea life you are sharing your swim with)
- The Pier – on the east coast the clear waters around the pier are simply wonderful. There are toilets and showers in the Kelp Store 
- Bothican (Bay of Moclett) – beautiful, pristine sand beach
- Taing Bay – another beautiful sand beach, if there is no seaweed.
- Hoxa Beach - another beautiful sand beach at both high and low tide.

Wild Swimming is exhilarating and gives your body that much needed shock to keep things moving, its great for your mental health and general wellbeing. While there is no right or wrong way to Wild Swim we do have a couple of recommendations and Safety Tips:
- Flipflops, Crocs or Sea Shoes are great to have but not nessacery. I left my shoes in the car but it can be a painful walk back if there's lots of pebbles.
- Warm Layers! Make sure you have a towel or dryrobe ready for when you get out. Get dry as quickly as possible, get a hat on and a warm drink inside you. 
- Get out before you get Cold!! Now the moment you hit that water you're going to be very cold, but what we mean by this is after 30 seconds or so you will start to feel "okay" but after that phase passes at some point you will really start to feel cold, get you before you get too cold. If you start to feel "warm" you've been in too long and its time to get out. Everyone has different thresholds and that is okay - remember, you will still be getting colder when you get out for a bit too. 
- Don't swim alone. Try and make sure you always have someone nearby. 
- Remember, the seas around Orkney are dangerous, with low temperatures even in summer and many areas subject to strong currents/waves. If you're not 100% sure make sure you don't go too deep and make sure you can stand up. If you’re keen to swim in Orkney’s seas or lochs, please be careful, and follow local advice on safe swimming spots/tides where possible.

Interactive Map of Orkney: https://overlandgaming.com/en-gbp/pages/orkney

With our incredible trip to Orkney over, we have put together an Interactive Map of all the locations we visited and recommend you adding to your Orkney adventure. The map includes Historical Sites, great overnight park ups, fantastic beaches, food and drink attractions and much more. 

On the left hand side you will find the Map filter which will help you navigate your way around our map of Orkney.

View the map here: https://overlandgaming.com/en-gbp/pages/orkney

Please note that this map is a work in progress as we continue to add more locations and reviews to our website. If you would like to contribute to the map or have a suggestion you can message us via Discord or our website.