Ness of Duncansby

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Caithness

Scotland

Ness of Duncansby

Duncansby Head Trig Point Duncansby Head Trig Point is close to the summit of Duncansby Head TUMP which is fenced off.
Name: Duncansby Head
Hill number: 10048
Height: 64m / 210ft
Parent (Ma/M): 1150 Morven
Section: 16C: Tongue to Wick and Helmsdale
County/UA: Highland (UA)
Class: Tump (0-99m)
Grid ref: ND 40554 73241
Summit feature: no feature
Drop: 42m
Col: 22m ND402727 — Duncansby Head Trig Point Credit: Rude Health

Ness of Duncansby is a prominent coastal feature located in Caithness, Scotland. It is a headland that juts out into the North Sea, forming a distinctive and dramatic point. The name "Ness" derives from the Old Norse word for "nose," which is fitting given the shape of this geographical formation.

Situated approximately two miles northeast of the town of John o' Groats, Ness of Duncansby is known for its striking cliffs and rugged beauty. The headland boasts towering sea stacks, which are vertical rock formations that rise dramatically from the ocean. These stacks, along with the nearby Duncansby Stacks, are a significant attraction for tourists and photographers. They are home to a plethora of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts.

The area surrounding the headland is characterized by stunning coastal landscapes, with steep cliffs and rough waters. A walking path leads visitors to the edge of the cliffs, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the North Sea and the surrounding coastline.

Ness of Duncansby also holds historical significance, as it is home to the Duncansby Lighthouse. This iconic lighthouse was built in 1924 and serves as a navigational aid for ships passing through the Pentland Firth. The lighthouse is not open to the public but adds to the charm and character of the headland.

In conclusion, Ness of Duncansby is a captivating coastal feature in Caithness, Scotland. Its dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking awe-inspiring coastal vistas.

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Ness of Duncansby Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.646989/-3.0528453 or Grid Reference ND3873. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Duncansby Head Trig Point

Duncansby Head Trig Point is close to the summit of Duncansby Head TUMP which is fenced off. Name: Duncansby Head Hill number: 10048 Height: 64m / 210ft Parent (Ma/M): 1150 Morven Section: 16C: Tongue to Wick and Helmsdale County/UA: Highland (UA) Class: Tump (0-99m) Grid ref: ND 40554 73241 Summit feature: no feature Drop: 42m Col: 22m ND402727

Rude Health

Duncansby Head from the air

Mike Pennington

Duncansby Stacks

These impressive sea stacks are just south of Duncansby Head in the far North East of Scotland.

Malcolm Neal

Dunscaby Head

Duncansby Head is the most north-easterly part of the Scottish mainland. The headland juts into the North Sea, with the Pentland Firth to its north and west and the Moray Firth to its south. The Dunscaby Head lighthouse stands on the tip of the headland. The lighthouse, which was built in 1924 and automated in 1997, is unusual in that its lantern tower is square rather than the more traditional round design.

David Dixon

Trig Point at Duncansby Head

Stacks of Duncansby in the background

John Ferguson

Duncansby Head Lighthouse

Alan Reid

Sea cliffs at Duncansby Head

Orkney Isles on the horizon.

Alan Reid

Geo of Sclaites, a deep cleft in the cliffs

Near Duncansby Head, this cleft has been cut by the sea as the tide rushes into it compressing air in rocky gaps via waves squeezing air splitting the rock. This is aided by boulders and pebbles also eroding the cleft as they are smashed into the cliff by incoming waves.

Malcolm Neal