North Wick

Bay in Orkney

Scotland

North Wick

Swans on the Shore Usually you see swans on fresh water, but these ones were exploring the shore. These are dipping strata of the Middle Old Red Sandstone that makes up most of Orkney, even though they are not at all red in colour. Most of the land in this square is on the Holm of Papa, a small offshore island, the tip of which can be seen at upper right in this view. — Swans on the Shore Credit: Anne Burgess

North Wick, Orkney (Bay) is a picturesque coastal location situated in the Orkney Islands, Scotland. This bay is located on the northeastern coast of the island and is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history.

The bay is surrounded by rugged cliffs, with breathtaking views of the North Sea. The coastline is dotted with rock formations and caves, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can often spot a variety of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and fulmars nesting on the cliffs.

North Wick is also famous for its historical significance. The remains of a Norse settlement, dating back to the Viking era, can be found in the vicinity. These archaeological sites provide a glimpse into the island's past and offer an insight into the lives of its early inhabitants.

The bay is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography. It is also a great location for fishing and angling, with the abundance of fish species in the surrounding waters.

Access to North Wick is relatively easy, with a well-maintained road leading to the bay. There are also parking facilities available for visitors. Nearby amenities include cafes, restaurants, and accommodations, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for tourists.

Overall, North Wick, Orkney (Bay) is a hidden gem that showcases the natural beauty and historical significance of the Orkney Islands. It is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in nature, explore ancient ruins, and experience the tranquility of this remote coastal location.

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North Wick Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.361929/-2.878011 or Grid Reference HY5053. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Swans on the Shore

Usually you see swans on fresh water, but these ones were exploring the shore. These are dipping strata of the Middle Old Red Sandstone that makes up most of Orkney, even though they are not at all red in colour. Most of the land in this square is on the Holm of Papa, a small offshore island, the tip of which can be seen at upper right in this view.

Anne Burgess

Shag, Papa Westray

Stood on the cliffs at the RSPB reserve of North Hill on Papay Westray

hayley green

Two Ponies

Two ponies in a field above the beach with a distant view towards Hundland.

Rude Health

View Along Fence And Wall Near Berry Hill

Rude Health

Great Auk Memorial

Memorial to last Great Auk killed in Britain in 1813, Fowl Craig, Papa Westray.

Jonathan Taylor

Great Auk Statue

This commemorates the last breeding Great Auk in Britain, it was shot in 1813. Great Auks are now extinct.

Shirley Grant

Loch of Ness

The Loch of Ness and the bay of North Wick beyond, on Papay (Papa Westray), Orkney.

Shirley Grant

Fowl Craig

As its name suggests, a nesting site for seabirds. This is within the RSPB North Hill reserve on Papa Westray.

Lis Burke

Mill Point, Papa Westray

There is the remains of a lade flowing past this ruin, so perhaps this is the mill that gives the point its name.

Rob Burke

Guillemots and razorbills on Fowl Craig

The guillemots are the grey and white birds to the right of the picture. The ledges of the craig provide nest sites for 200 razorbills and 1600 guillemots.

Rob Burke

Razorbill on Fowl Craig, Papa Westray

Only a small part of the craig can be seen from the cliff-top path, but this razorbill obligingly stood at a corner.

Rob Burke

Canoes at the roadside

Overlooking the tidal Loch of the Taing and North Wick on Papa Westray

Lis Burke

House at Hundland

A traditional Papa Westray house, long and low.

Lis Burke

Chambered Cairn Remains

Remains of chambered cairn at the north end of Holm of Papa. In the distance you can just see the impressive Chambered Cairn at the south end of this tiny island and I think the longest chambered cairn in Orkney. There were Fulmars nesting in the stalls of the chambered cairn in the foreground.

Adam Ward