Kennan's Isle

Island in Kirkcudbrightshire

Scotland

Kennan's Isle

Tongland Dam in 1988 A guided tour including the foot of the dam — Tongland Dam in 1988 Credit: Kevin Waterhouse

Kennan's Isle is a small island located off the coast of Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland. Situated in the Solway Firth, this uninhabited isle covers an area of approximately 0.4 hectares and is accessible by boat. The island is named after the nearby Kennan Bay and is known for its rugged and picturesque landscape.

The terrain of Kennan's Isle is characterized by rocky cliffs, grassy slopes, and a few scattered trees. The island offers stunning views of the surrounding waters and the distant coastline, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The lack of permanent human settlement on the island has allowed wildlife to thrive, and it is home to a variety of bird species, including gulls and cormorants.

Visitors can explore the island by foot, taking in the breathtaking scenery and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The rocky shores offer opportunities for rock pooling and beachcombing, while the grassy areas are perfect for picnics or simply relaxing amidst nature.

Kennan's Isle holds historical significance as well. It is believed that the island was used as a refuge by smugglers in the past, taking advantage of its secluded location. Today, remnants of this history can still be found, with the ruins of old stone structures and the occasional artifact.

Overall, Kennan's Isle is a hidden gem off the coast of Kirkcudbrightshire, offering a peaceful retreat amidst stunning natural beauty and a glimpse into Scotland's rich history.

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Kennan's Isle Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.877325/-4.0202003 or Grid Reference NX7055. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Tongland Dam in 1988

A guided tour including the foot of the dam

Kevin Waterhouse

Cattle near Netherthird

Occupying a field in the NW corner of the grid square.

Gordon Hatton

The road to Castle Douglas

This is the minor road linking Tongland and Castle Douglas. Anyone in a hurry would be well advised to use the A711 on the other side of the Dee.

Gordon Hatton

Old Milestone, Kirkcudbright parish

Square-shaped granite stone by the A711, in the parish of Kirkcudbright (Stewartry District). It may have been set up by the Tongland Trust. Inscription reads:- 3 Milestone Society National ID: DG_DFKK24

Gail Fawcett

Old Milestone, Kirkcudbright parish

Gail Fawcett

Tongland Dam

The dam holds back 8.8 million cubic metres of water in Tongland Loch.

Richard Sutcliffe

View from Tongland Dam

Looking downstream from the top of the dam wall. The water is coming out of one of the discharge pipes near the bottom of the dam.

Richard Sutcliffe

Tongland Loch

The view from Tongland Dam looking up Tongland Loch, the narrow reservoir for the Tongland Hydro-electric scheme.

Richard Sutcliffe

Fish Pass, Tongland Dam

The fish pass below the dam allows migratory fish from the River Dee to bypass the dam.

Richard Sutcliffe

Tongland Dam

Richard Sutcliffe

Fish Pass Tongland Dam

A few of a series of 39 chambers making up the complete fish ladder, allowing migratory fish to ascend the River Dee.

Richard Sutcliffe

Elvers, Fish Pass Tongland Dam

Elvers (young eels) climbing up the edge of the fish pass, using the mossy walls as an easier route, rather than attempting to fight against the strong water current (seen on the right).

Richard Sutcliffe