To be honest, it got
better! No threat of rain (but we still took our waterproofs) and, although
the Orkneys are famous for their gale force winds, hardly a breeze!
Had to go ashore by tender (thank God there wasn't too much wind) and
had a wander around the very attractive Town in the morning (our tour
was in the afternoon and, unfortunately, it was Sunday so not too much
open early). Bought a few bits and pieces, when the shops opened, and
then back to the ship for lunch. Strange to think that we are nearer
Oslo than we are to London!
 
Churchill Barrier and Scuttled Ship
Our afternoon tour was "Leisurely Orkney" (remember,
we were scared of the weather when we booked!) but what a tour! We've
all (I hope) heard of Scapa Flow but, until it is seen with the sunken
ships and the story of the U Boat sinking the "Royal Oak"
and the Churchill Barriers which one travels over. Wow! This is History.
 
Edna looking serious and St. Margaret's Smithy
The first main stop on our tour was at St. Margaret's Hope.
A nice village with a Blacksmith's Museum - very interesting. Edna may
look serious in the photo above but I think it was awe at the beauty
of it all. Next, a coffee break at the Sands Hotel (with home made cakes
and scones - delicious) then onto the high spot of the tour .....
 
The Italian Chapel
The Italian Chapel! Absolutely amazing. Two Nissan Huts
which were transformed by Italian P.O.W.s into a Chapel with recycled
materials (eg. the hanging lamps were made from bully beef tins). We've
done a bit of travelling but haven't been moved by many places more
than this.
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