Brough Ness

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Brough Ness

Skerry light south of Bur Wick, South Ronaldsay Viewed from the Orkney ferry — Skerry light south of Bur Wick, South Ronaldsay Credit: Eirian Evans

Brough Ness is a prominent coastal feature located on the northeastern coast of the island of South Ronaldsay, in the Orkney archipelago of Scotland. It is a headland or point that extends into the North Sea, offering stunning views of the surrounding waters and the nearby islands of Swona and Pentland Skerries.

The headland is characterized by its rugged cliffs that rise steeply from the sea, reaching heights of up to 20 meters (65 feet) in some areas. These cliffs are composed of sandstone and are known for their distinctive red and yellow hues, which add to the scenic beauty of the area.

Brough Ness is a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts, as it provides a habitat for a variety of bird species. Visitors can often spot fulmars, kittiwakes, guillemots, and other seabirds nesting on the cliffs. The surrounding waters are also home to seals, which can sometimes be seen basking on the rocks or swimming in the sea.

The headland is easily accessible by road, with a car park nearby where visitors can leave their vehicles. From there, a short walk along a well-marked path leads to the cliff edge, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the sea.

In addition to its natural beauty, Brough Ness is also of historical significance. The remains of a World War II radar station can be found on the headland, serving as a reminder of the island's role in the defense of Britain during the war.

Overall, Brough Ness is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those interested in both the natural and historical aspects of the Orkney Islands.

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Brough Ness Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.733389/-2.9599 or Grid Reference ND4483. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Skerry light south of Bur Wick, South Ronaldsay

Viewed from the Orkney ferry

Eirian Evans

Skerry light off Burwick, Orkney

Passing by on the Pentland Venture ferry on its way to Bur Wick

Eirian Evans

Brough Ness

Southern tip of South Ronaldsay overlooking the Pentland Firth.

Eirian Evans

View west from the Pentland Venture ferry

Just before entering the port at Burwick

Eirian Evans

St Mary's Church, Burwick

Old St Mary’s is in the very south of the south parish at Burwick. It is on the site where the first Christian missionaries reputedly arrived in Orkney. The church is thought to have last been used for regular worship around 1959, then used for occasional services until around 1995. It is on the Churches at Risk register, especially since it was struck by lightning in 2013.

Eirian Evans

Pentland Venture ferry at Burwick

Eirian Evans

Waiting for the ferry at Burwick Pier

Eirian Evans

St Mary's Church, Burwick

A better view of the church than when we arrived earlier in the day ND4384 : St Mary's Church, Burwick. Old St Mary’s is in the very south of the south parish at Burwick. It is on the site where the first Christian missionaries reputedly arrived in Orkney. The church is thought to have last been used for regular worship around 1959, then used for occasional services until around 1995. It is on the Churches at Risk register, especially since it was struck by lightning in 2013.

Eirian Evans