Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Papa Westray gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from PPW to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at PPW:
First, verify that you can enter United Kingdom — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 30 minutes into Papa Westray, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — GBP is the currency here. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Exploring Papa Westray on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Papa Westray:
Start with Knap of Howar Neolithic Farmhouse. Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Then, if time allows, make your way to RSPB North Hill Nature Reserve. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PPW, you can spend time at Papa Westray Airport Waiting Area or try Aircraft Spotting – World’s Shortest Flight. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Papa Westray: Papa Westray Community Shop & Café and Papa Westray Guest House (Pre-booked Meals). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Papa Westray Airport Snack Corner or Hot Beverages Station. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Papa Westray Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Papa Westray might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$8 USD
- A meal: ~$16 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$34 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Storing Your Luggage at Papa Westray Airport
Luggage storage options at PPW can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Papa Westray for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at PPW for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Papa Westray or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at PPW include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United Kingdom also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Papa Westray exploring the streets or relaxing at PPW, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.