Cowhythe Head

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Banffshire

Scotland

Cowhythe Head

Coastal path, by East Head A narrow path, along the slope. — Coastal path, by East Head Credit: Craig Wallace

Cowhythe Head is a prominent headland located in Banffshire, Scotland. Situated along the northeast coast, this coastal feature is known for its stunning cliffs and panoramic views of the North Sea. Rising approximately 40 meters above sea level, Cowhythe Head offers visitors a commanding vantage point to observe the surrounding coastal landscape.

The headland is composed of rugged sandstone rocks, which have been shaped by erosion over thousands of years. The cliffs display intricate patterns and layers, showcasing the geological history of the area. Furthermore, the exposed rocks provide a habitat for various species of seabirds, including guillemots and kittiwakes, which nest along the sheer cliff faces.

The coastal path running along Cowhythe Head offers a picturesque route for hikers and nature enthusiasts. It provides an opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, with the sound of crashing waves and the fresh sea breeze adding to the overall experience. Along the path, visitors may encounter wildflowers, such as sea thrift and poppies, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.

At low tide, Cowhythe Head reveals a rocky beach, providing access to explore the intertidal zone and discover marine life in rock pools. This area is teeming with diverse organisms, including crabs, anemones, and small fish, offering a unique glimpse into the coastal ecosystem.

Cowhythe Head is a popular destination for birdwatchers, geology enthusiasts, and those seeking solitude in nature. Its dramatic cliffs, coastal path, and diverse wildlife make it a must-visit location for anyone exploring the Banffshire coastline.

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Cowhythe Head Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.686717/-2.6494706 or Grid Reference NJ6166. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Coastal path, by East Head

A narrow path, along the slope.

Craig Wallace

Rocky coastline, East Head

Craig Wallace

Site of Coastguard Lookout Hut, East Head

Marked with white posts and a sign. Another view. NJ6066 : Site of Coastguard lookout hut

Craig Wallace

View from East Head

Looking east along the coast.

John M

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

2017 has been a good year for Red Admirals. I don't think I have ever seen so many before.

Anne Burgess

Boyne Bay Limeworks

The remains of the 19th-century limekilns can clearly be seen amongst all the modern day machinery of the current Boyne Bay Quarry Link

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Path to Boyne Bay

This newish path runs down to Boyne Bay parallel with a private road to the quarry

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The B9139 down to Scotsmill Bridge

The single track B9139 runs from Portsoy to the outskirts of Banff, seen here on the downhill approach to Scotsmill Bridge

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Scotsmill Bridge

The category B listed Scotsmill Bridge over the Burn of Boyne dates from the late 18th-century. Difficult to photograph, as the southern arch is part of the garden of Scotsmill Mill and the northern arch is in a deep gorge that could only be approached through another private residence. Link

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Boyne Castle

The late 16th century Boyne Castle is in a ruinous state and gradually being overwhelmed by trees and vegetation. Looking up at the north facade of the castle from where the Burn of Boyne flows around the castle grounds in a deep gorge. Link

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Plaque on Boyne Castle

This plaque on Boyne Castle refers to the Ancient Monuments Acts of 1913 and 1931. Judging by the ruinous state of the castle no remedial care has ever been carried out to the remains of the castle which is gradually being subsumed by trees and vegetation.

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Boyne Castle

The late 16th century Boyne Castle is in a ruinous state and gradually being overwhelmed by trees and vegetation. A plaque on one of the walls of the castle suggests little has been done to maintain the castle since the 1930s NJ6165 : Plaque on Boyne Castle Link

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Boyne Castle

Interior view of one of the barrel vaulted rooms on the ground level of the late 16th century Boyne Castle.

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Boyne Castle

The main western end of the late 16th century Boyne Castle. There are numerous rooms under this part of the castle still in relatively good condition, as in here NJ6165 : Boyne Castle

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Path to Boyne Bay

After walking down the path from the road end here NJ6165 : Path to Boyne Bay, one arrives at Boyne Bay. The building on the left of a small pool where the Burn of Boyne flows into the sea is part of the Boyne Quarry

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The beach at Boyne Bay

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Rocky coastline at Boyne Bay

Folded rocks at the edge of the sandy beach at Boyne Bay

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Burn of Boyne

The Burn of Boyne forms a pool here just before it flows into the sea. the stone arch bridge originally served a 19th century limeworks here NJ6165 : Boyne Bay Limeworks, but now is used by the modern quarry as the main lorry access over the burn into the quarry

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Cowhythe Head is located at Grid Ref: NJ6166 (Lat: 57.686717, Lng: -2.6494706)

Unitary Authority: Aberdeenshire

Police Authority: North East