Stanger Head

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Stanger Head

Penny farthing sculpture, Flotta, Orkney This is one of several sculptures made of recycled materials which can be found on Flotta. See also <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/882445">ND3494 : Oystercatchers on Flotta</a> and <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1864035">ND3793 : Doodlebug</a>.

In the distance to the left can be seen Flotta Kirk which also lies within the grid square. — Penny farthing sculpture, Flotta, Orkney Credit: Claire Pegrum

Stanger Head is a prominent coastal feature located on the Orkney Islands, an archipelago situated off the northeastern coast of Scotland. This headland, also known as Stanger Ness, is located on the east side of the Orkney Mainland, near the small village of St. Mary's.

Stanger Head is characterized by its dramatic cliffs, rising up to approximately 30 meters (98 feet) above the North Sea. The cliffs are composed of sandstone and are known for their striking red and orange hues, which create a striking contrast against the blue of the sea. The headland offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline, with other notable landmarks such as the Brough of Deerness visible in the distance.

The area surrounding Stanger Head is rich in wildlife, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. Numerous seabirds, including fulmars, guillemots, and kittiwakes, can be observed nesting on the cliffs. Occasionally, visitors may also spot puffins, razorbills, and even seals swimming in the waters below.

Access to Stanger Head is relatively easy, with a well-maintained coastal path leading to the headland. This path allows visitors to explore the area safely while taking in the stunning coastal scenery. Additionally, there is a small car park nearby for those arriving by car.

Stanger Head is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a serene coastal experience. Its rugged cliffs, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking views make it a truly remarkable coastal feature on the Orkney Islands.

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Stanger Head Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.814544/-3.0802721 or Grid Reference ND3792. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Penny farthing sculpture, Flotta, Orkney

This is one of several sculptures made of recycled materials which can be found on Flotta. See also ND3494 : Oystercatchers on Flotta and ND3793 : Doodlebug. In the distance to the left can be seen Flotta Kirk which also lies within the grid square.

Claire Pegrum

Kirkie Taing, Flotta, Orkney

Looking across Kirk Bay towards the farm called Banks which also lies within the grid square. This rocky outcrop, which is covered at high tide, lies to the south east of Flotta's church, or kirk. Taing is derived from the Old Norse word Tangi meaning tongue.

Claire Pegrum

Stanger Head, Flotta

The control tower for the WW2 coastal defences at Stanger Head is conspicuous in the sunlight. Flotta wind turbine beyond and the high hills of Hoy in the distance.

Ian Balcombe

Flotta; the Peerie Museum

An excellent little museum with an in-depth history of the island and much World Wars 1 and 2 memorabilia.

Colin Park

Flotta; The Buchanan Battery

Colin Park

Flotta; The Cletts, Rock stacks at Stanger Head

Colin Park

Flotta; Signal station above Stanger Head

Colin Park

Kenzie's Tower

Arrived by ferry to bag both TuMPs on Flotta with Alex Cameron, Jim Bloomer and Tricky Speirs on a sunny afternoon. Name: Kenzie's Tower Hill number: 12252 Height: 42m / 138ft Parent (Ma/M): none Area: 23: Orkney Islands Class: 0 Grid ref: ND371933 (est) Drop: 30m Col: 12m ND365938

Rude Health

A Small Kirk On Flotta

A small Kirk on Flotta with a view of Kirk Bay.

Rude Health

Isle of Flotta

A relic of the World War II defences of Scapa Flow can be seen on Stanger Head in the foreground. Beyond is the wind turbine on West Hill ND3593 whilst the hills of Hoy can be seen in the distance. Viewed from the MV Pentalina at ND388912.

Oliver Dixon

Isle of Flotta

A giant wind turbine crowns West Hill. The hills of Hoy beyond.

Oliver Dixon

Flotta: west side of Kirk Bay

Looking along the stony western shore of this bay on the southern side of the island.

Chris Downer

Flotta: the B9046 heads across the island

Looking along this straight B road, the main road across the island, from the crossroads to the west of the main village.

Chris Downer

Flotta: the post office

The stores and post office are contained within this outbuilding behind the subpostmaster's house; the current postmaster, David Sinclair, whose name is featured on the sign, has been in the post for 50 years, having taken over in 1965. This is about as much of the building that can easily be photographed as the house is right alongside us.

Chris Downer

Flotta: postbox № KW16 49

The island's postbox occupies a central location with regard to the majority of the residences, unlike the post office. It is set into a stone pillar by the school and may have once had some kind of rain-cover fitted - there are two small holes in the canopy over the slot.

Chris Downer

Flotta: the kirk

The church occupies a scenic setting just above the shore of Kirk Bay, and was built in 1871. See ND3693 : Flotta: inside the kirk for an interior view.

Chris Downer