Barswick

Bay in Orkney

Scotland

Barswick

Scapa Flow Seen from Olaf summit viewpoint on the A961. — Scapa Flow Credit: Graeme Yuill

Barswick Bay is a picturesque coastal area located in Orkney, an archipelago situated off the northeastern coast of Scotland. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich historical heritage. The bay is nestled between two headlands and offers breathtaking views of the North Sea.

The area is renowned for its diverse wildlife and is a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Visitors can often catch sight of various seabirds, including gannets, guillemots, and puffins. The surrounding cliffs provide nesting sites for these birds, making Barswick Bay an important habitat for their conservation.

In addition to its natural attractions, Barswick Bay also boasts a fascinating history. The remains of a Viking settlement can be found nearby, adding to the cultural significance of the area. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins and learn about the Viking influence on Orkney's history.

The bay is easily accessible by road, with a nearby car park for convenience. Visitors can take leisurely walks along the shoreline, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and taking in the breathtaking coastal views. The beach itself is a mix of sand and pebbles, offering a great spot for picnics or simply relaxing by the sea.

Barswick Bay is a hidden gem in Orkney, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Whether it is birdwatching, exploring ancient ruins, or simply enjoying the peacefulness of the coast, this bay has something to offer for every visitor.

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Barswick Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.762472/-2.9835388 or Grid Reference ND4386. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Scapa Flow

Seen from Olaf summit viewpoint on the A961.

Graeme Yuill

Eastward House, A961 near Barswick, South Ronaldsay

Built in 1873 by local residents for the Church of Scotland, it is now (2014) a home offering B & B.

Jo and Steve Turner

View west from the Olad summit viewpoint

Marred by rain

Eirian Evans

Farmland, Mossetter

Eirian Evans

Loch of Lythe

Small loch near Ossquoy, the farm on the right

Eirian Evans

Tomison's Academy

Founded under the will of William Tomison (1739-1829) of the Hudson's Bay Company. This former school is now empty and the adjacent buildings falling into dereliction

Eirian Evans

Road to somewhere

Beda Itin

Aerial view of southern South Ronaldsay

Taken from a flight to Shetland via Orkney this is the southern end of the southernmost of the main islands of Orkney, South Ronaldsay. Obviously aerial photos such as this cover many squares, so I have taken the subject reference as Barth Head, which is the little sticky-out point nearest the camera.

Rob Farrow

Towards Upper Serrigar

Extensive views of coastal scenery are available almost everywhere on the Orkney Islands and especially on South Ronaldsay.

Peter Church

Viewpoint on Olad Hill

The headland straight ahead is The Nev. A rain shower is sweeping in from the left.

Bill Boaden

Grassland on Olad Hill

Looking towards Ward Hill, with a sharp rain shower just starting. Several of the islands have a Ward Hill, signifying a good place to have a beacon.

Bill Boaden

The deserted croft of Greenvale

Deserted and derelict.

Ian Balcombe

Inside Greenvale

Looking into one of the rooms. A very similar atmosphere as in those on Swona, which Greenvale overlooks.

Ian Balcombe

Greenvale

Possibly the original dwelling. Swona on the horizon in the background.

Ian Balcombe

The Haven, Barswick

On Sundays, the inhabitants of Swona used to cross to South Ronaldsay in an open boat and would land here. This building is where they would then change into "Sunday Best" before walking across the fields to the kirk (ND441856). After the service, the process was reversed. What people!

Ian Balcombe