Historic Scottish island site desecrated by defecating tourists
It comes as the famous Scottish historic site has been subject to an ongoing row over the construction of public lavatories.
Councillors in Orkney agreed plans last year to install permanent loos at the Unesco World Heritage Site. Although it was said then that it will be 2027 by the time they are ready to be used.
READ MORE: Poll predicts big boost for SNP and commanding lead over Scottish Labour
However, it was also stressed that signs should be put in place to guide visitors to the nearest toilets in the area following reports of people using the nearby loch-side or road verge due to the lack of facilities.
In the meantime, Orkney Islands council has been forced to hire a private firm to regularly clean the faeces.
It's not the first popular attraction in Scotland to face issues with public toilets as we told last year how villagers in Glenfinnan (below) called for them to deal with an overwhelming number of tourists.
(Image: PA)
Mark Reeves, operator of Reeves Pest Management Services, complained on social media about the lack of toilets in Orkney.
He said: The toilets get blocked on a weekly basis at Skara Brae. There is no toilets at the Ring of Brodgar and the track along the loch it's strewn with human faeces. A customer of mine found a tourist crapping in her front garden.'
An Orkney Islands council spokeswoman said: 'The lack of toilet facilities at the Ring of Brodgar — where there is no visitor centre — is undoubtedly a challenge. We have improved signage and visitor information in the area and continue to explore options for facilities at the site, but there are very significant constraints in terms of what can be done, including those of planning permission, environmental constraints and the proximity of sites of historic and scenic interest.
'In the meantime, we continue to hold a contract with a local cleaning company who provide environmental cleaning at the site, which involves removal of various types of waste. We encourage visitors to Orkney to act in a responsible manner.'
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mirror
an hour ago
- Daily Mirror
Brits can charge their phones for free while at festivals with one simple hack
Research shows that more than a third of festival-goers have dipped into savings to pay for tickets this year, so experts have stepped in with the best advice on how to have fun without spending big Festivals can be a costly affair, and with the current economic climate and people tightening their belts, finding ways to save money is crucial. Exclusive data shared with PA from Credit Karma, gathered from an Opinium survey of 2,000 UK adults this month, revealed that over a third (35%) of festival-goers have dipped into their savings to afford tickets this year. Akansha Nath, general manager at smart money platform Credit Karma, explains that there are several reasons why festivals can be expensive, including the cost of tickets. New research from Credit Karma reveals that three in five (61%) festival-goers believe that escalating ticket prices have become excessive. Other festival-related expenses such as transport, food and drink, and outfits are also on the rise, with three-quarters (76%) of people stating these costs are all increasing. "There are also social factors at play, as people are keen to avoid 'FOMO' – fear of missing out," says Nath. "Three in 10 festival-goers feel pressured to attend festivals simply because their mates are going – particularly among Gen Zs." Richard Davies, founder of ticket resale platform Twickets, adds that festivals have "become big businesses" and the costs behind the scenes reflect this. "From artist fees and production to infrastructure, security and licensing – everything is now more expensive," he notes. Help us improve our content by completing the survey below. We'd love to hear from you! "Luckily there are festivals for all types of budgets, so fans can choose a one-day event or a festival that's four days with accommodation, depending on how much they want to spend. With preparation and planning, there's no reason your festival fun should be limited this summer," assures Nath. "Just remember to prioritise the events you most want to go to, set a careful budget and don't commit to more than you can afford." Davies and Nath have both come up with several savvy tips for festival-goers looking to save some cash as the festival season draws near. Charge your phone for free Davies recommends bringing a pre-charged power bank or solar-powered charger to avoid paying for charging services at festivals, explaining: "When your phone runs out of battery, often the only option is to use phone charging stalls at festivals which can eat into your budget. Bringing your own charging bank saves money and some festivals even offer free eco-charging points if you bring your own lead." Volunteer "Volunteering at festivals is a great way to get your ticket for free, in exchange for working a few shifts," Nath explains. "Sites like My Cause UK and Oxfam can help you find available volunteer opportunities. "You can also sometimes get free meals and camping upgrades from volunteering," Davies chimes in. "Therefore, it's worth asking the organisers what the options are." Pay in instalments Nath points out an alternative approach to managing festival finances. "Another way to cut costs is by using instalment-based payment schemes or credit that can split the cost of tickets across several months – whether that's using credit cards, Buy Now, Pay Later credit, or the festival's own payment instalment service," he notes. "However, remember not to overcommit or take on more debt than you can afford to pay back." Make the most of festival apps Lastly, Davies suggests downloading the festival app for potential discounts and giveaways, saying: "Its always worth downloading the festival app when you arrive as some events offer discounts or freebies, surprise giveaways or share food stall deals. "Keep your notifications on and check daily for the chance to save money. The festival's official app should also have useful resources like maps and timetables, to ensure you can plan your day and not miss out on the artists you really want to see."
Edinburgh Reporter
12 hours ago
- Edinburgh Reporter
Edinburgh's pink perfect summer – the city's first rosé wine trail taking flight
Edinburgh is about to get a rosy glow this summer with the launch of the city's inaugural Rosé Wine Trail. This promises to be a delightful journey transforming a typical afternoon or evening out into a sophisticated wine adventure exploring different areas of the city – great if you have friends visiting. The trail features three distinguished venues from the Signature Group: McLarens on the Corner in Morningside, The Huxley on Rutland Street, and Copper Blossom on George Street, each offering its own unique atmosphere. Wine enthusiasts can indulge in carefully curated rosé selections, creative rosé-inspired cocktails, or opt for the complete experience with a tasting flight. The £15 flight offers three 125ml glasses each of the crisp Mirabello Adria Vini from Lombardia, Italy; the classic Château Routas from Côtes de Provence, France; and the sophisticated M by Minuty, also from Côtes de Provence. For those seeking bubbles, the selection extends to include Della Vite Rosé Sparkling from Valdobbiadene and their non-alcoholic sparkling alternative for designated drivers and non-drinkers. The experience goes beyond just wine, with each venue offering an array of carefully crafted small bites designed to complement the rosé selection. Expect indulgent treats like baked Camembert served with focaccia croutons and fresh crudités, aromatic garlic-buttered flatbreads paired with pomegranate and baked beetroot hummus, perfectly charred tikka skewers, and the uniquely Scottish touch of haggis bon bons accompanied by blistered Padrón peppers. The trail operates on a delightfully interactive passport system – collect your free passport from any participating venue, gather stamps from each stop, and you'll be entered into a draw for the ultimate prize: a dreamy getaway to Provence, the very heart of rosé country. This summer initiative perfectly captures Edinburgh's evolving food and drink scene, combining the city's love for quality wine with its appetite for culinary exploration. Whether you're a rosé aficionado or simply curious about pink wine, this trail offers an accessible and enjoyable way to discover new flavours while exploring different corners of the city. Like this: Like Related
Scottish Sun
13 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Scottish castle that you can stay in for less than a night in a London hotel
Read on to find out how much it would cost per person ROYAL RETREAT Scottish castle that you can stay in for less than a night in a London hotel Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) DO you want to live like a king or a queen during a stay at a Scottish castle? Well, you could do so for less than a night in a London hotel. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 The Scottish castle has its own private beach where visitors can enjoy stunning views Credit: Big House Experience Luxury rental company has revealed the costs per person for some of the most spectacular British castles available for private hire. And when split between a group, the cost per person is often less than a typical hotel stay. According to a Statista reports, the average price per night for a London hotel is £158 Carron Castle in Fife, which sits on the shores of the Firth of Tay, costs less per person. The stunning venue sleeps 30 and boasts a swimming pool, tennis court, gym, cinema room, games room, private beach access and dogs are welcome. Carron Castle has been described as the epitome of a Scottish fairytale escape. The Baronial-style estate has everything from sweeping staircases and crystal chandeliers to four-poster beds and gallery-worthy family portraits. As a historic ancestral home, Carron Castle strikes a perfect balance between impressive architecture and relaxed comfort. Inside, you will find an elegant drawing room, a richly stocked library, and an inviting sitting room for relaxed gatherings. Visitors can enjoy movie nights in the cinema room complete with Netflix, or let the musicians among you entertain with not one but two grand pianos and an organ. Inverlochy Castle: Scotland's Crown Jewel of Luxury Hospitality Outside, there is a swimming pool, tennis courts and a serene walled garden. The 1,500-acre estate stretches down to the Tay estuary, where you'll find a secluded fire pit spot for unforgettable beachside barbecues. Golfers can travel to top-tier courses nearby, including the iconic St Andrews Old Course. Others may prefer a day of culture and shopping in nearby Dundee, Perth, or Edinburgh. 2 Carron Castle sits on the banks of the Firth of Tay in Fife Credit: Big House Experience Holidaymakers can stay at the venue for £9,000 for three nights. If you break up the total between a group, this costs £300 per person for three nights or £100 per person per night. Gareth Allen, founder of Big House Experience said: "You can't help but be seduced by Carron Castle, nestled in it's own private estate on the shores of the Firth of Tay. "You can feel the history radiating from the walls." Pengarth Castle in Wales and Wyatt Castle in Dorset were also mentioned.
