Castle of Geostic

Island in Orkney

Scotland

Castle of Geostic

Vestra Fiold trig pillar Credit: John Ferguson

The Castle of Geostic, located on the island of Orkney in Scotland, is a historic fortress that dates back to the 16th century. Situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the North Sea, the castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The structure was originally built as a residence for the Sinclair family, an influential Scottish noble family.

The castle is characterized by its robust stone walls and imposing towers, which reflect the defensive nature of the building. Over the centuries, it has undergone various modifications and additions, resulting in a unique blend of architectural styles. The interior of the castle features well-preserved chambers, including a great hall, private quarters, and a dungeon.

In addition to its architectural significance, the Castle of Geostic also holds historical importance. It has been associated with various notable figures and events, such as the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605. The castle's strategic location made it a crucial stronghold during times of conflict, and it played a role in both regional and national history.

Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its grounds and learn about its rich history. Guided tours provide insights into the castle's past, while also highlighting its architectural and cultural significance. The surrounding landscape, with its rugged coastline and picturesque views, adds to the allure of this historic site.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Castle of Geostic Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.077181/-3.3480268 or Grid Reference HY2221. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Vestra Fiold trig pillar

John Ferguson

Quoyloo: approaching from the north

Looking along the B9056 as it heads down into Quoyloo, with the lofty island of Hoy looming large in the distance.

Chris Downer

Quoyloo: the shop/post office

Like many village stores in the northern isles, Isbister Bros. Ltd. is not just a shop but also a petrol filling station and (weekday mornings) a post office. It is situated on the crossroads on the B9056.

Chris Downer

Quoyloo: postbox № KW16 18

This Elizabeth II-reign postbox is attached to the wall of HY2421 : Quoyloo: the shop/post office and is emptied at 10:30 each weekday and Saturday morning.

Chris Downer

Well on farmland, Northdyke, Orkney

The well is shown on the OS 1:25,000 map. The stile is on the coastal footpath which runs the length of mainland Orkney's west coast.

Claire Pegrum

Quarried slabs below Vestra Fiold, Orkney

From Link

: "What is believed to be an ancient quarry from which slabs have been taken for circles and standing stones lies on the S slope of Vestra Fiold; a quarter of a mile N of the farm-house of Breck. Across the shoulder of the hill, in two groups, a large number of massive slabs are still to be seen. In the upper group typical slabs measure 4ft 6in by 3ft 6in and 5ft by 3ft, but in the lower group some are much bigger, three in particular measuring 14ft 9in by 5ft 3in by 6in thick; 18ft 6in by 5ft 6in; 16ft by 6ft. The last mentioned stone appears to have been roughly wedged up as if in readiness for removal."

Claire Pegrum

Power lines crossing farmland below Vestra Fiold, Orkney

Looking towards Loch of Skaill on the left and Bay of Skaill on the right. Beyond are the northern cliffs of Hoy.

Claire Pegrum

Vestra Fiold

Thirteenth TuMP of the day with Jim Bloomer and Tricky Speirs on a sunny afternoon. Name: Vestra Fiold Hill number: 4928 Height: 129m / 423ft Parent (Ma/M): 1555 Milldoe - Mid Tooin Area:23: Orkney Islands Class: Hu,1 Grid ref: HY 24157 22106 Summit feature:most southerly of two cairns 60m S of trig point Drop: 110m Col: 19m HY274243

Rude Health