Scat Wick

Bay in Orkney

Scotland

Scat Wick

Moorland track, Flotta, Orkney Looking towards Switha.

The track was probably formerly used to access peat cutting areas. — Moorland track, Flotta, Orkney Credit: Claire Pegrum

Scat Wick is a picturesque bay located on the northeastern coast of the Orkney Islands in Scotland. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, it offers visitors a tranquil and idyllic setting to enjoy the rugged coastal landscape.

The bay is characterized by its sandy beach, which stretches for approximately half a mile and is framed by imposing cliffs on either side. The sand, composed of fine grains, is often found dotted with numerous shells and rocks, adding to its charm. The crystal-clear waters of the North Sea gently lap against the shore, providing an inviting spot for swimming or paddling on warmer days.

The bay is also known for its rich wildlife, attracting birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts from far and wide. A variety of seabirds, such as fulmars, kittiwakes, and guillemots, can be spotted nesting on the cliffs. In addition, seals can often be seen basking on the rocks or swimming near the shoreline, adding to the area's natural allure.

Scat Wick is a popular destination for walkers and hikers, as it offers breathtaking cliff-top paths that provide panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding coastline. The area is also home to a number of archaeological sites, including ancient burial mounds and the remains of a Viking settlement, adding a historical dimension to the location.

With its unspoiled natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and historical significance, Scat Wick is a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful and enchanting experience on the Orkney Islands.

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Scat Wick Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.815005/-3.1189658 or Grid Reference ND3592. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Moorland track, Flotta, Orkney

Looking towards Switha. The track was probably formerly used to access peat cutting areas.

Claire Pegrum

Triangulation pillar, West Hill, Flotta, Orkney

The high ground to the left is on Hoy and the island to the right of centre is Cava with Orkney Mainland behind.

Claire Pegrum

Triangulation pillar and wind turbine, West Hill, Flotta, Orkney

The wind turbine was made in Germany by Enercon, has a rated power of 2.3MW and became operational in 2010. It is privately owned by an individual who says he will provide £100,000 to Flotta Community Council over its lifetime.

Claire Pegrum

Penny farthing sculpture, Flotta, Orkney

This is one of several sculptures made of recycled materials which can be found on Flotta. See also ND3494 : Oystercatchers on Flotta and ND3793 : Doodlebug. In the distance to the left can be seen Flotta Kirk which also lies within the grid square.

Claire Pegrum

Kirkie Taing, Flotta, Orkney

Looking across Kirk Bay towards the farm called Banks which also lies within the grid square. This rocky outcrop, which is covered at high tide, lies to the south east of Flotta's church, or kirk. Taing is derived from the Old Norse word Tangi meaning tongue.

Claire Pegrum

Moorland track, Flotta, Orkney

Looking towards Fara and Hoy beyond. The track was probably formerly used to access peat cutting areas.

Claire Pegrum

Coastline, Flotta, Orkney

Looking across Weddel Sound towards Fara and the Hoy hills beyond.

Claire Pegrum

Coastline, Flotta, Orkney

Looking across Weddel Sound towards Fara and the Hoy hills beyond.

Claire Pegrum

Coastline, Flotta, Orkney

Looking towards Ruff of Cantick on South Walls.

Claire Pegrum

Barrage balloon mooring block and ring, Wharth, Flotta, Orkney

This was one of many barrage balloon sites which protected the Scapa Flow naval anchorage during WWII. The presence of barrage balloons meant enemy aircraft had to fly higher than they would have done otherwise and reduced the accuracy of their bombing. The Orkney barrage balloons were operated and maintained by the specially formed 950 Squadron of the RAF which was based at Lyness on Hoy.

Claire Pegrum

Stanger Head, Flotta

The control tower for the WW2 coastal defences at Stanger Head is conspicuous in the sunlight. Flotta wind turbine beyond and the high hills of Hoy in the distance.

Ian Balcombe

Flotta 2007, aerial

With Hoy and South Walls underneath, and Switha to the right.

Chris

Flotta oil terminal 2007, aerial

Chris

Point of The Pool, Switha

Taken through the drizzle, just before 6a.m. on 30/6/12 from the Karin. En-route to spending most of the day off Cantick Head, Hoy with a party of marine biologists.

Ian Balcombe