Loch Gretchen

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Orkney

Scotland

Loch Gretchen

North Ronaldsay: old petrol pump by the airfield I think it&#039;s a few years since this pump last dispensed any fuel. — North Ronaldsay: old petrol pump by the airfield Credit: Chris Downer

Loch Gretchen, located in the Orkney Islands of Scotland, is a picturesque freshwater lake surrounded by lush landscapes. Covering an area of approximately 100 acres, it is a relatively small yet enchanting body of water that attracts both locals and tourists alike.

The lake is nestled within a natural basin, showcasing its crystal-clear waters that reflect the surrounding greenery and sky. Its shores are adorned with tall reeds and grasses, creating a vibrant and diverse ecosystem. Loch Gretchen is home to various species of aquatic plants, including water lilies and submerged vegetation, which provide a habitat for an array of wildlife.

The lake is teeming with fish, such as trout and pike, making it a popular spot for anglers. The calm and tranquil environment also makes it an ideal destination for boating and kayaking activities. Visitors can enjoy leisurely exploring the lake's nooks and crannies, taking in the scenic beauty and immersing themselves in nature.

Surrounding Loch Gretchen is a network of walking trails, allowing visitors to embark on hikes and experience the stunning Orkney landscape. The area is known for its rich historical and archaeological sites, with ancient ruins and standing stones dotting the nearby countryside.

In summary, Loch Gretchen is a charming freshwater lake nestled amidst the picturesque Orkney Islands. Its serene atmosphere, diverse wildlife, and close proximity to historical sites make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

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Loch Gretchen Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.361332/-2.4427902 or Grid Reference HY7452. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

North Ronaldsay: old petrol pump by the airfield

I think it's a few years since this pump last dispensed any fuel.

Chris Downer

North Ronaldsay: the New Kirk

Despite being the 'new' kirk (in relation to the 'old' kirk south of here), the church is itself disused from a religious point of view. It has, though, been reincarnated as a heritage centre with a whole host of photographs and information documenting all aspects of life on the island. See HY7553 : North Ronaldsay: inside the new kirk for a glimpse of some of the information panels within.

Chris Downer

North Ronaldsay: inside the new kirk

Looking down from the gallery of HY7553 : North Ronaldsay: the New Kirk, on the western end of the exhibition of North Ronaldsay life. It is a fascinating place, with panels looking at different aspects of the island - postal, school, etc. - and continues in the smaller part of the building.

Chris Downer

North Ronaldsay: approaching by air

Looking through the front window of the plane as it approaches the airfield on North Ronaldsay. This is the 10:50 from Kirkwall, which arrives at 11:08. The odd shiny lines are reflections of the leather seat on the glass.

Chris Downer

North Ronaldsay: the post office

The post office is more or less in the centre of the island, and is open 10-12 Monday and Wednesday-to-Friday, and 12-2 on Tuesdays. See HY7553 : North Ronaldsay: postbox № KW17 119 for a close-up of the postbox in the wall.

Chris Downer

North Ronaldsay: postbox № KW17 119

The island's only postbox is set into a window of HY7553 : North Ronaldsay: the post office. It is a nice, and increasingly rare, example of what is known as a 'carpenter's box' - one that was locally made to suit, and clearly not a regular design. The window is also embellished with a whalebone.

Chris Downer

Holland House from Nouster, North Ronaldsay

Mike Pennington

Nouster Bay, North Ronaldsay

Although named South Bay on OS maps, this is known as Nouster Bay locally.

Mike Pennington

Nouster Bay, North Ronaldsay

Looking across towards the pier; although named South Bay on OS maps, the bay is known as Nouster Bay locally.

Mike Pennington

South Bay, North Ronaldsay, from the air

Mike Pennington

Off loading cars from MV Earl Sigard at North Ronaldsay

North Ronaldsay is the only inhabited island in the Orkney Islands where vehicles need to be craned off and on.

Colin Park

On North Ronaldsay - South Bay

Colin Park

On North Ronaldsay - walking from the jetty towards Holland

Colin Park

On North Ronaldsay - Trig point at Holland

Colin Park

North Ronaldsay Airport

Colin Park

Old mills at Nesstoun, North Ronaldsay

The large building is a watermill, built in 1907 to replace another nearby. The conical stump is the base of Peckhouse Windmill which had a wooden upper structure.

Greg Fitchett