A long layover in Westray is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Westray Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave WRY:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United Kingdom. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Westray takes about 30 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is GBP. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Westray:
Start with Noltland Castle. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds. Then, if time allows, make your way to Westray Heritage Centre. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Westray.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside WRY, you can spend time at Watching the World’s Shortest Flight or try Westray Airport Waiting Area Relaxation. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Jack’s Brae Cafe and The Westray Hotel Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Westray.
- At the airport: Westray Airport Refreshments Stand (Self-Service) and Airport Vending Machine Selection will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Getting to Westray from the Airport
From WRY, the local transport gets you to Westray in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Westray might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$13 USD
- A meal: ~$26 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$49 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at WRY 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 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 WRY for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate 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.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at WRY, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Westray genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.