The island of Egilsay, with a population of 46 in 1991, is one of the northern Orkney islands, located to the east of the larger island of Rousay, from which it is separated by Rousay Sound, 12 miles (19 km) north of Kirkwall. Extending to 650 ha (1606 acres), the island had a population of 190 in 1840. Associated with St Magnus, its most noted landmark is the ruined 12th Century Church of St Magnus with its 15m (49 foot) round tower. A monument nearby commemorates the murder of St Magnus here in 1117.
The island is accessible by vehicle ferry from Tingwall on the Orkney mainland.